Here's the difference in front brake pads which shows a nice, slight increase in pad surface area. 2003-2005 Astro: http://www.hawkperformance.com/performance-street/pads/hb323y724-1329 http://www.hawkperformance.com/sites/default/files/product_images/HB323_3.gif 2005 Silverado 1500 with 13" fr...

I didn't read thread linked above but after quick glance on RA, it looks like the Silverado 1500 front calipers for the 13" rotors are for the rear drum brake equipped models hence the reason for larger front rotors. Comparing the Silverado 1500 calipers that are the same as on our 2003-2005 As...

Herbie, what are you running now for your brake setup? Even fully loaded with motorcycle(s) and track gear, tools, equipment, etc I've never felt the van was marginal on stopping power? I run OE rotors with Hawk LTS and a reasonably decent brake fluid like Castrol GT LMA or whatever it's called now....

You can internet search 'gm esi download'...

Sorry, my post was slightly confusing... I don't think Rancho (Tenneco) are comparable to Bilstein in terms of quality is what I was trying to say. The RS9000XL perform well, quality is just okay and the adjustment knob does have a noticeable affect in terms of damping control. However, twin-tube sh...

FWIW, I went with Rancho RS9000XL adjustable shocks not because of the brand but to get some suitable length shocks on my van that I also had the ability to "fine-tune" the valving control somewhat. Without being able to see valving specs on all the various shocks that fit my lift/suspensi...

I think you should search a bit more, there has been much discussion on shocks for lifted vans, technical and otherwise so you are certainly not the first person to ask these questions. I've documented my thoughts and experiences with shocks for lifted van pretty well in my build thread on ExPo. Com...

There are actually quite a few differences that make the swap prohibitive from 5-lug to 6-lug and vise versa. The 6-lug has different backing plate mounts on the end of the axle, uses larger bearings and axle shafts are different lengths. So basically the backing plates and swap back to 5-lug wouldn...

The springs will settle some eventually.

If you actually need increased load capacity and not as much lift then Astro 22-1195HD springs would be an option. #1700 load capacity and not as much arch as S10 springs.

If fluid level is good and looks okay you could try rotating the tires and driving and also removing the front propshaft, check for play in hub bearings, cv joints for torn boots/thrown grease, etc. Try to eyeball your front wheel alignment, if toe gets knocked out or a camber bolt comes loose, a ti...

Have a dealer run the VIN and check the RPO codes for you.

If you fabricate the bumper from 3/16" thick steel or even 1/8" steel, it will I have yet to decide on what material to make the bumper out of. I'd prefer aluminum, but depends on the cost difference. I think the added weight of steel in the rear, if I go that route, shouldn't effect the ...

Like photo_van recommends, I'd just replace the bushing too. Doesn't hurt and prevents a potential source of vibration down the road. Be sure to lube the yoke on install too.

Late to the party... If I remember correctly, I think when T.Low did his he had Randy's Ring & Pinion do the install with Yukon gears. Looking at all gearing calculators on their site, I think 4.10 is a good compromise for all-around use with 30-31" tire diameter. For me, it would put rpm b...

On S10 diff drops, the top mount is cut off the differential and a longer mount bolts onto the side plate cover on the driver's side of the diff. For the passenger side mount, an angled spacer is used. http://blazerforum.com/forum/attachments/builds-48/11790d1359300076-xtrmes10-97-zr2-blazer-build-i...