21 April 2010, 8:50 pm
This is a 1994 Chevy Astro van, the extended wheelbase version (although I don’t really notice the difference). It’s not especially pretty, but it serves its purpose. Starts every time, drives and handles well. Interior (blue) has the typical wear and tear that should be expected for a vehicle this age: a couple of dash cracks, a screw or two that have gone missing, mild tears in the front seats. Rear bench seat is removable. This van has made trips to San Diego and back and Oklahoma and back without a problem, got about 22 mpg on that last trip. In the past six months, it has had a new battery, new alternator, and upwards of $800 dollars in exhaust and suspension work. Plus, a new Sony stereo with CD/MP3, USB port, and iPod (or other device) line-in. Registered through 2011, will be inspected by the end of the month. Clean title in hand. <br> <br> Now for the downside. It will need a tune-up and a brake job soon. On occasion it stalls at traffic lights or when backing out of the driveway, but it always starts up again immediately. The idle is rough on occasion, and there is a ticking in the engine that I’m guessing is a valve or a lifter or some such. Service engine light comes on above 60 mph, but no one has ever been able to diagnose anything. I have had conflicting reports on the AC: recharge or rebuild. Heater works fine. Could use tires and new speakers, but those are not pressing. Paint is peeling in spots, as the picture shows. Hood latch is…difficult. I do not know the history of this vehicle before I owned it, but I’m guessing it hit something once and had some front end body work, because the hood latch is completely jury-rigged (but yes, it stays closed). One crack on passenger side of windshield. Right rear bumper pushed up at a mild angle. <br> <br> All-in-all, this is a rough but very functional van that has potential to run strong for a long time with some TLC. Ideal for someone willing to tinker around and do a bit at a time, but very usable as is (plus tune-up and brakes soon, like I said). Could be a good work van or a family hauler, I wouldn’t hesitate either way. <br> <br> Asking $1500 or best, but flexible. Also very willing to trade for clean, reliable, older American car or truck. Make me an offer, please. <br> <br> <br>... Read More »
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