2004 3500 Race Van
#1
2004 3500 Race Van
So I've got an '04 with the 6.0 I'm setting up to race bikes out of, and a bit of research has landed me here. I love my van, but it's basically stock at the minute, with big plans ahead. I want to put a 6L90 in it, good suspension, and finish out the interior to suit my needs. Right now I'm trying to sort the suspension out. From what I've read, the '03+ has seen significant updates that differ from the silverado. Being a race van, the 3500 suspension is definitely overkill, and who hooks a goose neck up to a van?! So, I'm going to take the thick leaf that is added to the 2500 leaf pack for the 3500s, get some shorter U bolts, and replace the shocks. Is the rear suspension in an '04 the same as the siverado? And what are my options up front? It's not so stiff in the front, but I do want quality suspension up front too eventually. So, has anything in the front end remained interchangeable with the silverados??
#3
CF Senior Member
Not sure what you are trying to accomplish with modifying the suspension. It isn't going to ride any different. My 3500 rides smooth and comfortable when it is empty or loaded. Once you put all your gear and bikes in the van it will be fine. What if you get a trailer in the future? You already have a platform off the back and you want to weaken the rear leafs?? Sorry but that's not very smart. I would leave it all alone. There is nothing that carries over from the Silverado that I am aware of. Also a 3500 van is not the same as a 3500 Silverado... the van is a lower GVW. If you want a 2500 that badly, it would be easier to sell and buy another. But I think you are better off with the 3500.
Last edited by greenfire; November 22nd, 2016 at 4:22 PM.
#4
6L90e cannot be installed in place of 4L80e. The electronics are way different, there is CAN bus. If you remove the leaf spring nothing will change. I have owned both 2500 and 3500 vans and didn't notice any differences in ride quality. Except that the 2500 can legally carry a whopping 1000lbs less.