This Is My 4x4 Astro Van

I've been meaning to put a video like this out there for a while & after yesterday's Wonderhussy Adventures video where, in the comments, I read people wanting to know more, bow was the perfect time... Yes, I'm the king of run-on sentences
Kei who sent me the original set of engine lift brackets: / @americandinosaursclas...
Reflashed ECU's: / @ewaltsauto
#astrovantribe

[@johnpearson4899]

I learned several things about these vans I didn't know from the WH video. I also learned about your channel from that same video. I've had the same light bar since around 2018. It still works extremely well. Great van build. Sub'd I'll keep watching to see what's next.👍👍

[@wdjones4735]

Your van is such a great little vehicle! You have everything dialed in. Thanks for the full tour. You mentioned a 6-speed V-8. We have a 6-speed V-8 in our 2014 F150. It is such a smooth ride and it gets 21mpg! BTW…..your rose garden is beautiful👍🏻 Have a great weekend and thanks again for sharing Mr Z😊

[@tommymartin4827]

It's really incredible what you have accomplished. I had no clue those vans where available like that. Awesome passion top notch job indeed

[@marcussafarik7405]

You are the feeder for developing this great van. Fantastic ride. Great job.

[@jewlsthefaithful6139]

Saw the video with Wonder Hussy....awesome!

[@MrFgd3]

Very nice Astro. You don't need to start the engine to read the odometer. Just press the trip odometer reset button and the odometer will come on for a few seconds.

[@michaelrobinson3779]

I enjoyed seeing you and Wonderhussy enderact! It's not that often seeing her totally relaxed! LOL

[@winelovrs1968]

We found you thanks to Wonderhussy. Personally, I have never built a four-wheel drive rig. I have had a few, Bronco, and 5 jeeps. Looks fun...I am a Journeyman, Carpenter, backyard mechanic, 32 Ford Hot Rod, 67 Mustang Street Machine, both trophy winners. Pismo Beach survivor.

[@tinaprice6180]

Saw you on WanderHussy!! Glad she gave you a shout out.

[@AstroVanTribe]

Me too...!

[@Rose-kp4ow]

Nice van! I'm excited to see what you add to it! Thanks for sharing 😊

[@BraxtonGriffith-zj1bi]

As for a stereo, I refused to switch from stock for over a year because I liked the look. However, I just installed a Kenwood double din (Dpx505bt). It’s non touch screen and has a nice big turn knob for when your driving. And in my opinion, looks the most stock. It also fit the trim adapter kit. I have pics and everything I can email/text you. I have a 2001 gmc safari awd cargo I’ve been beefing up.

[@AstroVanTribe]

Could I load my music up into it? [e-mail]

[@dfhepner]

I liked the Coke bottle opener you had on the passenger side dutch door.

[@AstroVanTribe]

Thanks! I should have done a tight shot of that, it's old, an RC COLA with the pat.# on it....

[@bucknasty176]

Nice van Mike!!! I always wondered about the Astro Van I always see workers using them. Those videos of you and Wonderhussy are part of my favorites, inebriated and all. Stay awesome bro!

[@BlueSky-ff4oy]

It's nice to see it so clean. 👍

[@beaghmne2369]

I sub'd after watching this Thanks so very much for doing this and for your very informative video! I sub'd immediately after watching this. I could barely make it thru the Wonderhussy video, I kept wishing she'd stop interrupting you. I'm so impressed w this build and cant wait for future videos.

[@GrievenceCapitolist]

93 94 and 95 where put on a pickup chassis . I believe it was the Silverado frame . That's where the disc brakes came from . Older Astros have a lot of front end parts from the rwd caprice . That's why old school Chevy mags won't fit most Astros . I was so bummed when my 15 x 8 Corvette rallies didn't fit .

[@AstroVanTribe]

no, these are un construction - the AWD vans have a front sub frame clip. No Astro was even on a full frame chassis - The front end parts are what's on the 1500 pick-ups

[@NerfNerdster]

Sweet 4x4 camper van. Do more destination/trip videos your fun to watch 🤙

[@AstroVanTribe]

They're coming - I still work for a living so I have to make the time but now that this thing is more dialed in it'll be easier.

[@dariusjefferson7262]

Dude I can't wait to meet you, you are one of my favorite KZbin people and when I finish my spaceship I hope you'll allow me to spend some time witchu and buy a bug out bag from you...ima black dude so excuse the colloquialism but jus wanna say Can't Wait To Meet You Unk(uncle)

[@Kad3nSJ]

Excellent video; really like your set up.

[@piperlong544]

Beautiful van buddy. Thanks for sharing!

[@karensutton5912]

You have a BEAUTIFUL rose garden!!

[@rlhuber76]

Great episode 👍

[@bruceallen6016]

WOW! I can tell you have really put a lot of thought into your van. I'm a currently van-less van/Muscle car guy. Last was an 03 Dodge. I did have a 1989 GMC Safari AWB van that I wish I did more with. First was a 1967 GMC that had a tricked out interior for traveling. Currently have a 1999 Jeep GC that I really like as well. Enjoyed your video. 😎

[@mikedamelio5733]

Great informative vlog ! And yes, I just Subscribed !!! You are a really cool down to Earth Human Being ! And yes, I have always been a Chevy Man !

[@xBo0tx]

I’ve got a 97 safari and an 04 Astro both awd in the fence row . This gives me some inspiration to move em up the priority list . Nice rig !

[@lawrencebest9943]

Great video you got a nice set up on the van.

[@vencenzodemarco4393]

OK Ya, Nice job describing the inner workings, or mainly the Under-Workings of your Astro Van & how you've been putting it all together. As you say 'a work in progress'. The fact that you are in Love, with this set of wheels makes all the difference. Nice. I've had Every Type of vehicle that anyone can imagine. Driving All around the world almost, and have a Long list of stories. As far as Van's go, I bought a new Econoline 150 down in Long Branch in 75 and drove it for ten years in the city Beating it up on the worst streets in continental u.s., NYC. I Never had an issue one except for starter-motors. I had the van for my business (garment) and did millions of delivery jobs All the time. Having a vehicle in the city with commercial plates, was almost heaven when not dodging the parking meter MudPhucquers. Now to address your gas milage: my guess is, and it's only guessing, you have several obvious reasons why it's so low. Your added weight is the killer. The roof-rack, the extra-large gas tank, the different gear ratio and larger tires, and the Posi-Traction is no friend in the long haul. Then, All the added goodies on the inside made of wood, and water is heavy, and the overall shape of the van is not aero-friendly at all. (how am I doing???) Now don't get me wrong, I love your build, but it IS, What it IS. I drive an FJ which fights the wind in All directions except a tail wind. I'm almost finished with a cargo rig build 7x7x12, and decided to go That Way, so I can free-up my Trekking with just the fj for all the ultra funky hiding places I like to go with my girls.(Dogs) So many ways to attack the Off-Road lifestyle with convenient accommodations of sorts, but there will Always be a compromise. I can stash my rig behind rocks & trees, and set out with just the truck and a nice big tent, and I'm good to go. Next Purchase, an Air-Conditioning unit that will keep us cool All summer. I'm working on that now. Somehow Michael, I see you in a Ford Van, 4x4 with 6inch lift, a sweet V-8 and All your goodies living in such a larger space with room left over to go Bowling. 👍👊 🌞 Anyway, Bravo Astro 👏👏👏👏👏 😎👋 You did Good.

[@AstroVanTribe]

Right, everything is a compromise - I dialed this to be more off-road capable which pushed me to the 32" tires which meant re-gearing became mandatory. The 32" tires ,which are 235/85R16 are also "pizza cutters" compared to what you typically see on most off-road vehicles, roll over things much better that the smaller tires - They're also much nicer in the city where the bad roads are sometimes as bad as what we find off the pavement. I'm not surprised the mileage dropped, I expected it - I just did as much as I could to keep it from being far worse and I think I did a pretty good job of it. I'm typically driving 80mph so if/when I slow it down to under 70mph the mpg's are much better

[@vencenzodemarco4393]

@@AstroVanTribe Yes, the Speed Factor. I forgot to mention that. Recently, since we have been getting Raped at the gas pump, I started to Cool It and only drive 65 Max, and many times just 60. It will Amaze you how much you will save. Ya, you can read the lips of the up-tight drivers behind you, but phucque em. You will Still get there, and maybe even enjoy the scenery a bit better. The difference between 55 n 65, is 34-38% Better Mileage. Ubove 65 it's over 47% Crummy Consumption. I get it though, it takes getting used to. I still like your Astro Van no matter what.

[@AstroVanTribe]

@@vencenzodemarco4393 Yep, and "thanks", the more people support the idea of driving slower the more comfortable I suppose I'll become with it - I've driven across the country well over 20-something times in 17 different vehicles (on top of countless other road trips all over the country) and was always in a rush due to "time" - I keep forgetting I'm getting older because I'm really just getting better :D - I really need to slow it down

[@vencenzodemarco4393]

@@AstroVanTribe Hi Michael. I spend most time, the Best of times, on & around the north rim of the Grand Canyon where there are no tourists. Az, Nev, & Ut are my favorites out of this big bad world these days. It would be nice, if you are going to be in this area sometime this summer or fall, and I will share some of my hiding-places. Most peeps don't venture forth as far as I like to go, only the wackadoodals in their side by sides but they don't stay long. If ya get stuck here, ya stay here until help arrives. Nothing you can't handle, I just make it sound rough. It's great to Get Away from humanity yet be so close. Too bad there are no Hot Springs in this special area as that would be a major plus. I must go to the location of your last desert trek, where you & H were able to Soak at that Oasis. That, is a great place I'm dying to go. Can I communicate with you via Facebook?? it would be private that way. Much to share & it could be fun, if ya have any time outside your normal schedule?? Normal Schedule??? What's That???

[@AstroVanTribe]

@@vencenzodemarco4393 I'm not on FB as much these days - I have IG and can be messaged there but yeah, I'm pretty busy with work, friends, and now this KZbin this is turning into something. I have a pal in Moab I see every year or so but have been wanting to check that area you're talking about - Stay tuned, I usually put out thre what I'm planning so reach out then and I'm sure we can hook up

[@verdellparentaaawink268]

Also i did build a v8 astro years back i used all the accessories off the v6 except the harmonic balancer with the right v8 exhaust manifolds i was able to keep the factory v6 exhaust it made a nice sleeper

[@EnriqueReyesJrREALTOR]

Best Astro I’ve ever seen! 😊nice mods.

[@problu9586]

Totally agree with replacing CD player with an iPod. First went that way with a stock '99 Isuzu Vehicross 4x4. Stock multi-CD player quit. Been using iPods ever since. My 7th gen iPod touch (out of production, last model) is handy for more than iTunes, like locating Bluetooth devices, etc.

[@SP-KevinConklin]

Rad! Love your rig!

[@deluxe1030]

thanks. super cool van for real.

[@johnhenry7010]

Hey, Glad "WonderHussy" told us about you, Stay Safe Out There......

[@vernlapoint1528]

Cool Van 👊😎

[@michelelovesfreedom]

What about the mood lighting? 😉

[@AstroVanTribe]

Ha, ha...!

[@miscbs]

I just bought an Astro Awd Yesterday in hopes of doing something similar. Thanks for the video.

[@hd77303]

Sweet ride. Hope to have one in the stable someday.

[@TheOverlanderNextdoor]

I am so tempted to do a van build

[@AstroVanTribe]

I bet, that FJ is cramped BUT it's a beast - We'll have to hook up so you can check this thing out! Drop me a line any time: [e-mail]

[@Ghost_Os]

Cool walkthrough, man. I just fabricated a self-closing flip-up rear license plate mount for mine, because I'm installing shore power, and the NOCO plug is going to be concealed behind the plate. Considering getting some Silverado Tow mirrors, I hear they're compatible-ish (with a little modification).

[@AstroVanTribe]

Yeah, I like the larger mirrors but mine get beat up in the city as it is so I'm sticking with the OEM for now

[@texaslonestarrider]

Very Cool! 😎

[@2fuzy]

Yep it looks a lot like my 99 at least on the outside well for a few more days as the raptor liner is in the mail

[@AstroVanTribe]

Yeah, I'm wanting to do some kind of exterior coating - I'm considering rolling it on

[@2fuzy]

@@AstroVanTribe I rolled the bumpers when built them and it is ok on the bumpers but I wouldn't like the texture on the body so I'm going to reduce it and spray it through an hvlp gun but I'm just doing where the cladding was ....for now My van is pretty much rust free but the cladding mounting strips where not and in getting them off it left places rust could start and thats the why

[@michelelovesfreedom]

Yes. I wanna hear about the books!

[@AstroVanTribe]

As crazy as it sounds, and I know it likely won't get many views, I'm thinking about reading a book on KZbin. I have a rare-ish book, Our Western Border printed in 1876 that's chock full of actual history no one is exposed to anymore. One chapter at a time, probably do youtube LIVE - It would be a ballsy move, I'm not the best orator, the print is small and the vernacular isn't as we speak today so it would be "different" - Something in my head wants me to do it... We'll see

[@michelelovesfreedom]

@@AstroVanTribe well I'll watch/listen! Sounds right up my alley, but yes it might lose some subscribers. It will gain some though too.

[@Elhastezy888]

​@AstroVanTribe there's always a magnifying glass 👍🏻

[@AstroVanTribe]

@@Elhastezy888 Ha, ha...! Could you imagine me sitting there reading a book through a giant magnifying glass - That would be hysterical

[@fastcarsfever]

Your Awesome!

[@margaretbowen867]

Hi Mike! Wonderhussy sent me here! You two would make a cute couple.😉

[@steveramirez1654]

👍👍

[@malikchams3932]

all you need now is an ls v8 and your laughing

[@jamesgill5511]

If you're going to V8 swap it, the rear axle seriously needs to be addressed first. Those 7.5's were never meant to hold up to the torque of a V8 + low range + 32" tires in something as heavy as an Astro. Even a small 4.8L LS(smallest aluminum block is a 5.3), especially if paired with the 30% lower 1st gear ratio of a 6L80 transmission, will wreak havoc on a 7.5 diff. I've seen many of them grenade in mild V8 4x4 S-10's which are significantly lighter. Alloy shafts and beefier carriers really don't help either since it's the cast center section that deforms under load. On that note, I believe I mentioned in one of your other videos that there are 2 candidates for a rear axle upgrade. Either a late 70's to early 80's E150 9", or a later 6 lug Chevy express 1500 8.5". The Ford rear is nearly perfect in width and pinion location, but would require custom shafts and aftermarket brakes to retain your 6 lug pattern. The 1500 Express axle is wider than what's in the the Astro, but the pattern is the same and they use the brakes are a direct hookup. The Express axle would only need the passenger side narrowed something like 3" to get the right width and pinion offset. Either axle will need new leaf spring perches and shock mounts welded on in the correct locations.

[@michaelbahl4357]

Great videos, Im looking at these vans for my first camper. Are you looking at adding a pop top or extending the roof slightly?

[@AstroVanTribe]

I'd love to but I use my roof rack/deck all the time

[@verdellparentaaawink268]

I have a 98 astro 5 lug i would like to know how you did the roof rack its a nice setup for a tent 5x6/7 2 person dome nice build got a 3" lift kit looks good have 29" tires thanks for your time making the video

[@AstroVanTribe]

I designed and built it myself - There's a playlist of all the videos I did as I went through the process.... I do a lot of talking about ideas, some of which never happened in favor of better solutions

[@LCSRacing]

Beautiful rig! curious what wheels / offset did you settle on ? Thank you for the content!

[@AstroVanTribe]

factory 16" Chevy Wheels

[@richardsilva5134]

always good to see i am not the only one out there that can't stop improving my old '01 SoSari AWD with LS Swap and 410 gears running 31s with 3"body lift. I am wondering what source/donor provided the larger gas tank and how much modifications were needed?

[@AstroVanTribe]

It's the stock 27 gallon tank that came on my van

[@richardsilva5134]

@@AstroVanTribe Right on. I might be mistaken but I thought mine is only a 20 or 22 gallon OEM tank. Let me know when you're going to start planning out and executing the ls swap. Been there done that with many lessons learned and especially lessons for AWD / front differential spatial conflict consideration which is not a lot of information found on various Safari/Astro forums.

[@AstroVanTribe]

@@richardsilva5134 What swap?

[@richardsilva5134]

@@AstroVanTribe pretty sure what you're referring to. I was asking what size tank did your gas tank come off of this is 27 gal because I do not believe my OEM gas tank is 27 gal but closer to 20 gal maybe 22 gal. But I think you answered that question already.

[@ZorroDaddy]

Wow, its around 3.89 in Vegas, see that's why I got the hell out of Cali. and the idiot that governs it. All love Mike, great vids and Topics, way of saying it too, well done bud. Yaso Megale.

[@user-vp4cm6vo6d]

Is that a grill rack holding the spare tire with Bunji cords? If it is from a grill that's pretty cool.

[@AstroVanTribe]

yep, best spot for them dirty things, they get cleaned off under there

[@xBo0tx]

The 350 “bolts in “ whereas the ls is gonna need the bell housing and torq converter swapped as well adding length about 2 inches . Might work ?

[@AstroVanTribe]

Yeah, I haven't looked too deep into it yet - As I mentioned I'd likely do the full engine and trans swap BUT that's a lot of coin... We'll see, really, this thing is fine as it is

[@cliffordwagner]

2005 Cargo came with drum brakes on rear.

[@AstroVanTribe]

I had the 2005 cargo and it had 4 wheel disc brakes - It was the van I had before this one, it was stolen from the Long Beach Marina

[@cliffordwagner]

@@AstroVanTribe must have been an upgrade. Both of my 2005 Cargo have drum rear. I've looked at swapping them out, but drums fade less and are better for hauling. I'd swap the front out for drums if I didn't hate working on them.

[@VintageFilmChannel]

LS? What about smog?

[@AstroVanTribe]

I'm smarter than I look, don't let the tattoos fool you

[@GoTerry]

I think it’s BaddAss.. I mean don’t think you’re gonna get past the razzing for the grill grate trailer park mod on the spare but Hell yeah it’s cool as shit, I want one to make it mine you know maybe a 1 ton I found in the Bay Area I think was an 87 - 92

[@AstroVanTribe]

I figure it's the best spot to store the grill, I found it in the garbage - That thing gets dirty when you use it to cook on and it self cleans mounted to the tire

[@jancloddlafront9185]

13:17 what is your rear differential ratio?... speaking of fuel economy and performance?

[@AstroVanTribe]

4:10's, 32" tires, reflashed ECU which includes changing the shifting points - My fuel economy got much better in the city and if I don't drive too fast on the highway it's still pretty decent but you can't expect any lifted 4x4 with larger tires to get great fuel economy at speed

[@serhiy75]

What brand and size are those shocks? And what size you have on front end? Thanks

[@AstroVanTribe]

off the top of my head I don't know but you can look through my play lists - The Rancho shocks up front came on the van when I bought it and the rears are Gabriel coil-overs - I just looked at them and picked them for size. It's doubtful you have the exact same set-up I'm running so you'll need to experiment as I did... I'm also not sure this is all the right way to go, when I can I plan to have custom leaf springs made but that'll be after I do the front straight axle swap

[@serhiy75]

I have 3” spacers on front and an inch or little more torsion lift on front and 5” shackles on rear. The front ones stock size about two years old and already toasted. Same with rear end. I have too much swing while driving. So it’s time to get new ones

[@AstroVanTribe]

@@serhiy75 Yeah, the coil-overs helps a LOT with sway when driving on the highway as well as off road - I need new front shocks and was planning on Gabriels just because they hooked me up in the past with swag - I need to figure out what length. Originally I called them and one of their techs steered me right

[@serhiy75]

So, if I did 1-1/2” torsion lift do I go with 1-1/2” longer on stock size? Same with 5” shackle ? Add 5” to length of the stock shocks?

[@JavierGonzalez-lt5wd]

Is there any way you have pictures of the brackets you put on the inch and for lifting it if you do, can you please put some on the Internet or make a short video of it things looks great

[@AstroVanTribe]

check my playlists

[@johndemers6324]

Do you have a build spec sheet . I’m in the midd of buying a low mileage , no rust , leather seats awd . And first thing I want to do is 4x4 journey kit . 3 inck body lift journey kit . Bead lock rims and 32 inch tires

[@AstroVanTribe]

Sorry, no - BUT there's plenty of content here on this channel of everything I did, re-did, what worked and what didn't

[@ducknorris233]

Will it fit in the garage?

[@AstroVanTribe]

No, that's not my garage, this is a clients home, they let me use the garage as my workshop

[@cubahot1]

Rims and tires size . Can u still open the side door ??

[@AstroVanTribe]

stock 16" wheels and 32" "pizza cutters" - I don't recall the tire size number - Yes I can open the side door... I kept the same foot print as stock width wise

[@jimmy_iKoN]

Awesome looking van but the mpg kinda sucks 😢

[@AstroVanTribe]

you can't have it all....

[@jonathanurbina3036]

Whar size are your rings and well? bro?

[@AstroVanTribe]

?

[@jonathanurbina3036]

@@AstroVanTribe Sorry, What size are the wheels and tires?

[@AstroVanTribe]

@@jonathanurbina3036 16" wheels - I forget the numbers on the tires but there's play lists on my page about all of that - they're 32" tires but stand shorter than that

[@asm9655]

Can I install a ls machine on gmc Safari?

[@AstroVanTribe]

yes

[@ags5080]

I cant wait for goverment to change either

[@charliesmith8656]

🤔🤔🤔0:44 Whhat whhat ewe and Wounderhussy were high i mean "medicated" Pee S "WH" has a doctors order fur her "rheumatiz medicine"🤣🤣🤣🖐😎

[@Easter_Bunny0]

Yeah great video Great Van really cool enjoyed it a lot love your video with Sarah Jane woodall wonderhussy be careful with her she's crazy❤