Info on chevy vans

First time poster...
i'm interested in buying a chevyvan, probably a 2nd gen (not opposed to buying a 1st gen). anyhow, i'm looking for general information. i've tried to do a little research on my own, but there is a lot to sift through, so i was hoping to get the low down from the experts. i'm interested in a few specific areas (but welcome any/all info). did any year come with factory disc brakes, auto trans, power steering? how/where are disc brake kits available? do the vans share any steering/suspension parts with any other gm cars/trucks (chevy II, nova, c10?). is there a frame or a uni-body design? what is suspension design? how difficult are upgrades to drivetrain, steering, braking, electrical, etc. what ideally interested in is a late 60's van swb panel, with power disc brakes, power steering, auto trans, that i can use as a daily driver, possibly at some point swap in a diesel engine (maybe from an isuzu npr) i live in a hilly, urban area (sf, ca) so going up and down hills safely is a must. also i'm not totally opposed to a dodge or ford, but only if they are vastly easier to meet my needs. sorry, for any and all overlap with other posts, and thanks for any info and help.

thanks for all the info... i still want a van though. although, i'd like to be able to drive it someday. maybe as a 2nd project. might have to go with an early 70's c10 swb in the mean time, meanwhile i'll keep dreaming, and/or looking into something slightly newer. not necessarily a mustang guy, but that charger held it own! thanks again. i'm sure i'll have more questions later.

just saw a 69 with a 307v8, and turbo 350 in the area...

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/823721019.html

will post this in for sale section in it isn't already there. i recently sold my 63 impala, which also had no power steering, or power brakes so i know it can get a little stressful, although usually worth it. so i haven't given up by any means, just collecting data, and $$.

I am also a new poster here.

I had my 64 three on the tree when I lived in SF. I didn't think it was that bad. I couldn't afford the hilly neighborhoods though. Putting stock size tires was a big improvement. Steering fat tire was a bummer. I think you just drive these vans different. You also just figure out the best ways of getting around etc. As long as you love the van you will make it work. Good luck. Oh ya, For parking sake I would stick with a 90 inch wheelbase.
Dave

Hey,

Iwannavan, first I will say welcome to the site I am fairly new here and have found everyone here to be helpful. I like the Gremlin picture reminds me of my Gremlin which I would like to post pics of some day. Anyway, I had a first gen chevy '65 (see my pics) I agree with donivan, you drive a vintage, so for the most part you overcome the inconvienences. I doubt that there is anyway to do powersteering on the first or second but third has many options available. I had a 3rd ford and know that power is available but it wasn't nearly as much fun to drive (no offense just an opinion). Go with what you REALLY want and you won't be sorry. Look around this site for more info on mod's they are everywhere.

Good luck and God bless.

I remember reading that the 2nd Gen G20's could be had with power brakes (hydrovac). In 69 and 70 Dodge had power steering as an option. It was more of a power assist ala early Mustang or 2nd Gen. Ford van. "Proper" power steering wasn't available until 71 on Dodges and Chevys.

I went to bordering state Oregon to buy A 70’s Gimmy van I saw online last summer but passed on it upon inspection. On the way home I saw this 1st gen for sale along the highway. I had never seen one and knew nothing about them. I enjoy it more and more everyday. My wife won’t get in it but her loss.

been lookin to buy a 66 but cant seem to locate one here in florida . anybody out there have one they want to sell please let me know .

Here's one.
https://www.classiccarsofsarasota.com/vehicles/778/1966-gmc-sport-van

that is a great van but waaaay to much money for me

Not sure if its still available.

https://www.facebook.com/commerce/listing/1343428755845220/?ref=share_attachment

Hi. i recently bought a 66 g10 window van and iam trying to locate a engine dog house... mine seems to be missing. does any body have one they sell please let me know . thank you.