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O/T Comments on mini vans

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Farmer Paul in

02-12-2005 03:30:06




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I know this is off topic but could use some input. Have an 04 with 2.7 V6 and getting scared off by all the bad press on he motor.

The wife would like a mini van to replace it.( I do not want to start any arguments about brands ) Would appreciate any comments or experience you might have with the Dodge caravan or Ford Freestar .
The caravan we are looking at has a 3.3L motor which we have heard good things about. ( we will be looking at new 04 or 05 models )

Thanks in advance for any help.

Paul

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JDB

02-14-2005 10:53:07




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
FORD motor co owns a large share (if not all of Mazda) We bought a Mazda MPV a couple years ago and really like it.



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Robert in TN

02-14-2005 00:25:46




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
I have a '97 Dodge Grand Caravan with the 3.3L motor. 125,000 trouble free miles. Only brake jobs and the computer acted up under warranty. No other problems, which is amazing with the way that my wife drives. We traveled back and fourth from TN to LA witht a clam shell carrier on the top. This thing acts like a big sail and it will still get about 21 mpg. Just everyday driving it averages about 24. I'm happy with it and she will get another one when this one wears out. I will look at the Honda and Toyota along with the Dodge. All good vans, some have more to offer than others...

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leland

02-13-2005 06:15:56




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
the only thing about mini vans I don't like is that around here there is one at the front of every traffic jam.



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dieselade

02-13-2005 04:04:08




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
I had a 98 caravan with four cyliner..got 32mpg on a 55mph trip. now have 3.3 engine, it is supposedly built strong for flex fuel capabilities. according to the computer, it says we are getting 23.9mpg all around mileage. that is what i figure it out to be. i`m waiting to see how the new 05 caravans meet public approval with the fold down seats.



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Redmud

02-12-2005 18:34:04




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
If I was in the market for one, it would be a Ford.



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Dean Barker

02-12-2005 17:24:52




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
My youngest son has a 97 Town & Country with the 3.8 motor and loves it. On slick roads, you tend to see mini-vans on their side in the median, so don't overdrive them.



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Dave 2N

02-12-2005 14:43:56




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
87 Voyager with 240,000 miles, 93 Voyager and 95 Caravan, both traded at 30,000 for the fun of it, 97 Voyager, sold it to my son-and daughter-in-law when it had 140,000 and they still use it, and current mini is 2002 Chrysler Voyager. Never a problem with any of them. I really feel that the Chrysler minis are the class of the category.
Have heard good things about the Ford Freestar but heard a lot of not so good stuff about the GM minis. GM got into this part of the market with too little too late and have been unsuccessful trying to play "catch up."

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Hugh MacKay

02-12-2005 14:40:51




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
Paul: From what these guys are saying, I don't think the Fuel milage is very good. I get that good with my Buick LeSabre.

Back a few years ago I thought I had a use for a full size van. I went to try one out and my son, Sandy went along as he had been around vans some more than I. At the time I had a 3/4 Chevy diesel pickup. Tried several out that but the only one I really got on the open road was a 3/4 Chevy diesel van. There was a light breeze and I couldn't believe how we were being tossed around. Worse than a 53' refer in heavy wind. I suddenly decided I didn't need a van.

Here in Ontario, I am on the 401, 402 and 403 a lot with a Mack and 53' refer trailer. It takes a lot of wind, snow, rain, etc to make Ontario drivers back off on their speed. They are one brave bunch. The one thing I can tell you, is the first one's to back off are the mini van drivers, followed very closely by the full size vans and empty van highway trailers. That is the best description I can give. Those 3 types of vehicles scare the h#@$ out of me, and I don't scare easy.

I once crossed the bridge to PEI in heavy cross wind driving a highway tractor and empty B train aluminum van trailers. These are about 85' long. Speed limit is 80 km or 50 mph. I was backing off from that speed. I was travelling with my left front tractor wheel 3' from centre line. The left rear trailer wheels were running on centre line. This bridge is monitored very closely by attendants. When I got to other side he called me in, had noticed my slowing speed. I told him what I was fighting and I was damn nervous. He said,"Bridge is now officially closed to empty van trailers." and the lights went up. The bridge has a 6' solid concrete wall so small vans are unaffected by wind.

I cannot understand why families subject themselves to mini vans. The weight to wind catching ratio is very little different to that empty highway trailer.

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Dave 2n

02-13-2005 06:51:56




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Hugh MacKay, 02-12-2005 14:40:51  
Hugh-
The wind issue is being a little overstated. Yes, they move arond in the wind but so do other vehicles.
Families "subject" themselves to mini-vans because they are handier then a pocket on a shirt for families.
That said, the company I retired from sold a lot air tools to GM'a Buick division. My son is a service adviser for a GM dealer. Both the company and my son still rate the Buick LeSabre as the highest quality vehicle in the category of sedans. However, a sedan isn't for everyone.

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BFO

02-12-2005 10:32:11




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
We traded a '95 caravan for an '03 Safari AWD. The Caravan went through 3 transmissions, countless other repairs, and blew the motor on the drive to trade it in. Now the little lady has more confidence with a stiffer frame, trailer towing capacity, and enough weight to make the AWD usable. I still do not like driving a minivan, but this was the way to go.



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buickanddeere

02-12-2005 10:05:03




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
"Paul, have you considered an Chevy Astro/GMC Safari? Built on a small TRUCK chassis and probbobly more dependable than the other two"

From what I've seen I agree double.

The front wheel drive unabody weiner wagons are a lightweight econo car with a raised roof. These are the ones that roll over easy when loaded heavy or $moke the light duty transmissions. Just take a stroll through your local auto trans shop after the 1st long weekend this coming spring. A vehicle is just like building a storage shed, never enough. For the same money get some HD parts, weight carrying and towing capacity. Gas mileage, who cares? What's best for your family and isn't going to break under a modest load. The wife's Astro AWD gets 20 mpg plus, just putting around on short trips.

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Mark - IN.

02-13-2005 20:48:37




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to buickanddeere, 02-12-2005 10:05:03  
Good choices. When my sisters were looking at mini-vans for the families, I mentioned them. They didn't know what was talking about, so I showed them. They didn't like them and settled on Caravans with self closing doors, DVD TVs and stuff and love them. Personally, if I were looking into a minivan, I'd look at a passenger or converted extended Astro or Safari - can haul stuff but still have a soft ride. I've seen lots of overloaded company cargo Astro's and Safari's and like a Timex, keep ticking and ticking. Just a thought.

Mark.

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JD-Tractor

02-12-2005 09:19:17




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
I believe you would have to go a long way to beat the Ford Freestar, Have rented freestars to go on several trips ,quality is good and the features are good.Drove in very hilly terrain(western Pa.)I have driven all the dodge van products and the GM products.Gooooo Ford he,he



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Brian in NY

02-12-2005 07:07:22




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
Well, I think you will be much happier with the Dodge....Ford makes a poor product when it comes to minivans...stay far away!

Also, stay far away from Pontiac Montana, Chevy Venture, Olds Silhouette etc....I had one and my in laws had one...both are/were junk...

The Chevy Astro/GMC Safari twins are much more rugged, and heavily built...and have a nice ride too....Although you won"t find dual sliding doors, fold away seating, etc etc....but if I was going to buy another minivan, that would be my choice....cause it is a truck at heart.

Good luck

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Engineer20

02-12-2005 08:28:27




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Brian in NY, 02-12-2005 07:07:22  
My parents have a 2001 Ford minivan. They love it! One of the best vehicles they have ever owned. They take frequent trips with it and have never had a problem.



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Vern-MI

02-12-2005 16:01:10




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Engineer20, 02-12-2005 08:28:27  
We have an '04 Montery and it is very comfortable to drive and gets what I think is exceptional mileage. We get 24 on the highway and about 17 -20 in town depending and traffic conditions. It has a four speed AX4N transmission and a 4.2 liter V6 engine and is very peppy.

I would have to pry it out of my wifes cold dead fingers in order to sell it.



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TomTX

02-12-2005 07:00:00




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
My wife has a 2001 Honda Odyssey 3.5 V6. Best built, best running, least maintenance, best handling car we have ever bought. We have had all brands, but this one is the best. Got 46000 so far. See consumer reports.



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Bob in VA

02-12-2005 06:46:18




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
I have a '93 and a'99 caravan w/3.3ltr engine and have had excellent luck with both. Change the trans fluid every 25,000-30,000 mi.and you will only have to do regular maint. to make them last 200,000 miles. Buy at least a 2year old model and you will save LOTS of money to put towards more important things like antique tractors!



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fixerupper

02-12-2005 06:44:16




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
What kind of mileage does your 04 get? My wife bought an 04 Intrepid with the 2.7 and it gets 20-23. We are not impressed with this because our old 94 Intrepid with a 3.3 got 25-28 mpg. We are thinking about trading also.



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Gray

02-12-2005 06:39:05




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
We bought a new Dodge Grand Caravan in 97 and now has 125,000 miles with no major problems. It has a couple of quirks like the windshield wipers will make a few swipes on their own every now and then. My inlaws 97 Town and Country has the same problem. My biggest complaint are the poor headlights. I understand these problems have been eliminated. We have the 3.8 and it has not given any problems and has plenty of power and averages 20 mpg and will get 25-26 on the road. One thing you might want to check on because I am not real sure about this but I think the 3.3 has a timing belt that has to be changed and the 3.8 has a timing chain. I wouldn't hesitate about buying another Dodge van.

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Bryan in Iowa

02-12-2005 07:59:29




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Gray, 02-12-2005 06:39:05  
The 3.3 has timing chain . Both the 3.3 and 3.8 are very dependable motors .I have customers puching close to 200,000 on some of these with no major problems .As to be expected with any make ,the key to long life is Maintinance @!@ They all BREAK ! Seen dodges that have been rode hard and out away wet that are junk at 60,000 miles . Same with other brands .I shy away from Fords because I see more more of those with bigger problems wife has a 2002 Grand Caravan , 3.3 70,000 miles,so far power steering pump is only major thing had to do to it .

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bo

02-12-2005 06:27:13




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
Have a '99 Caravan...61,000....one brake job...just front pads at 50k...one power steering pump...rusted out...lousy place for it, real low and in the salt from the street...one idler....one AC repair....about $500 total in repairs....I think that's good... got the 3.0 engine...the 3.3 is suppose to be better.

We took it to Florida a few times...ran great. I wanted it and she didn't, she won't drive a long trip in nothing else now. I'm over 6' and it's fine for me. I'm happy. I don't pull anything but a real small trailer but then it's not meant to pull anything large anyway.

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Big Mike

02-12-2005 06:18:53




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
Paul, have you considered an Chevy Astro/GMC Safari? Built on a small TRUCK chassis and probbobly more dependable than the other two.....



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tinyy

02-12-2005 05:49:20




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
I got a 95 dodge grand caravan with ovr 125000 on it and it has the 3.8. Also have had a 93 with the 3.3 they are a good van. The 93 would still be on the road if I had not toatled, it no major motor or trany trouble with mine. But the father in law put a trany in his at around 130000 but he pulls his boat with his so that might be some of why he had to. I would not buy a caravan they are a rougher ride[shorter wheel base]. Sister had the ford mini van and it was not that great but I HATE FORDS.

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SJ

02-12-2005 05:47:38




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
When my wife wanted a mini van I started searching high and low,was looking for new,I just didnt think they cut it for her needs ie.dog shows,pull small trailer,but didnt want full size van nor the price of one with a few bells and whistles,AC,PW,PDL,etc. So I looked at the Chevy Astro Van(not a big chevy fan,lol)well 6 years later and 160,000 mi.its been one heck of a van,no major repairs,few minor elec, probs,PW motors,wiper motor,but nothin major and you can fit a full sheet of whatever in there(4x8)when weather doesnt permit my pick-up to do the job,nice V-6,200hp,still has plenty of punch after pulling 5000lb camper all over north east.I believe resale value on a used with low milage is pretty cheap as vans just dont seem to hold any value,also AWD is available if you live in the north.So thats just my 2 cents,them minivans just dont cut it.Oh yeah one more thing,if your a large gentlemen dont plan on having much footroom in the drivers seat,one pitfall I guess.

Good Luck

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sawtooth

02-12-2005 04:57:58




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Farmer Paul in Ont, 02-12-2005 03:30:06  
We have a '97 Dodge Caravan with a 3.3 (a 3.8 was also available) we like it very well. Almost 100,000 miles and no problems. (did have to replace the Nippon starter contacts which we did ourselves, also one brake job) I think the 3.3 could be weak in hill country but we get along fine in the flatlands. We did a 1,000 mile round trip a few weeks ago, I checked mileage on a fillup, got 24 m.p.g.

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Hugh MacKay

02-12-2005 13:59:39




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to sawtooth, 02-12-2005 04:57:58  
sawtooth: Do those not give better milage than that? I presume you are talking US gallons. I have two Buick LeSabres, one new with all bells and whistles and it gives 27.5 miles to Cdn gallon or 22 US. My old 86 just a plain old Buick with 270,000 miles on it gives 30 miles to Cdn gallon or 24 US. It has miles as it was a US car brough from south.



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sawtooth

02-12-2005 17:10:17




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 Re: O/T Comments on mini vans in reply to Hugh MacKay, 02-12-2005 13:59:39  
I didn't mention, when I checked the mileage we were going south on I 69 then west on I 70 against a s.w. wind and at 75 mph most the time. With a little babying it would probably pick up a couple more mpg. Minivans buck more wind than the cars you mentioned.



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