Unassuming Chevy Van Transformed into Unique Cruiser
Crafty forum member turns 2006 Express 3500 cargo van into prized ‘Pimp Daddy’ cruiser that Snoop Dogg — or Elmo — would love.
On Nov. 5, 2017, Chevrolet Forums member Teammuir1 proudly introduced fellow enthusiasts to his new project: restoring a 2006 Chevy Express van 3500. In a thread about his van restoration plans, he writes:
“YES…I have been gearing up for this job for a while now. I started on it today… but still have a long way to go…I am insulating the roof and taping off the holes…I also added some bracing under the original headliner (what’s this for you ask..?)…Well, I have been lurking around in those other forums, Diesel ones, where they do things that others don’t do…but there is a console out there from a factory manufacturer where the guys are installing C.B.s in them…so, I prepared the ceiling for one if I am lucky enough to find one at the junkyard.”
Teammuir1 has revealed that he has done some preliminary work, including starting on add ons like tinted windows, bug shield, and rain guards, in addition to polishing the wheels, waxing the van, and repainting the interior.
“The van was used for work, so the interior was trashed,” writes Teammuir1, and asking fellow forum members for some advice: “What’s the best upgrades you guys could offer a new owner of a 2006 Express Van 3500 6.0 v8?”
Chevrolet Forums members are quick to offer up solid advice and share shots of their successful upgrades, from heavy-duty headlights to impenetrable splash guards.
However, early on, Teammuir1 lets us know that he’s not planning to do any ol’ run of the mill restoration. He’s lookin’ to get very original in the daring design aesthetic of his Chevy van’s modifications — one that includes plenty of devil-red shag carpeting. Like, everywhere.
“I’m gonna start calling you ‘Pimp Daddy,'” comments a fellow forums member in response to some fun shots Teammuir1 shares throughout the restoration, keeping fellow enthusiasts up to date with every detail of this crazy-cool project.
“HAHAHA…Well, I have to say., I have done a lot of searching on the interweb, and I have not yet seen what I am doing to one of these,” responds Teammuir1 about his proposed new “Pimp Daddy” moniker. “So, call me what you will (LOL), I am so diggin’ the turn out.
“It’s not for everyone,” adds Teammuir1, “but then again, I am NOT everyone. This is NOT my daily driver. It was purchased for one thing and that’s for my HOBBY. So, I am making it mine,;as unique as it is, it’s mine….LOL.”
“I am glad I am at least keeping you entertained,” he continues. “I guess I have ran others off, but for the record, look at how many hits this thread has received…hahahaha!”
We totally support Teammuir1’s unique vision and are inspired by his stealth-like drive in making his dream van a reality — red shag carpeting and all! Sure, he admits that his kid has already started calling the shaggy red van “Elmo,” but we’re gonna call it esoteric awesomeness.
Check out Teammuir1’s full thread to see his and our forum members’ expert tips and awesome pix. Then, join the Chevrolet Forums, for free, and become part of the eclectic crew that makes the forums the best place to go for everything Chevy!
