OK guys been searching around the internet a little bit today, and have found some anecdotal (not hard facts) info. Apparently the conversion van builders decide what suspension to use is based on the amount of seats in the vehicle, I only saw two choices. A conversion van with up to seven seats uses the 1500 (haft ton) 135” suspension, which utilizes the six lug bolt wheels. A conversion van that seats up to nine uses a 2500 (three-quarter ton) 155” suspension, which utilizes the eight lug bolt wheels.

 

1500 has 1/2 ton capacity, hence the lighter duty components. In fact it has the same drivetrain (aside from engine) as my Astro did, which is also 1/2 ton. Same transmission, axles, torsion bar front SLA independent suspension.

2500/3500 have larger axles for added capacity, bigger transmissions, integral steering, bigger stabilizer bars, bigger brake rotors, wider tires, and a higher deck.

 

Correct. Only 2500/3500. It's all in the VIKs

 

GM doesn't offer the 1500 Express anymore, I think 2016 was the last year. Guess the GM conversion van builders will have just one choice, the 2500, no more 6 lug bolt custom wheels.

 

Well that is pretty much the point of this thread, the suspensions are different on the 1500 1/2 ton Express vans. The cargo 1500's use the heavier duty 8 lug bolt suspension, while the passenger 1500's use the lighter duty 6 lug bolt suspension.

 

2014 was the last year.

 

GM Brochure for 2013:

 

Are you sure?

 

Is Joe stalking us? How did he get a picture of your van, Tom?

I notice no one mentioned the 4500. I don't even know what that might be, but I keep seeing it mentioned. I guess Imma goin' lookin'.

 

Ah, yes. What we used to call a "cab and chassis".