Your statement on the 04.5 LLYs is false. That's a great engine, first year for the variable geometry turbo.

Fuel economy is all in the tune.

You can't go too wild with tuning as the 80e won't handle the tq that the Allison will, this is your biggest difference from truck to van, the vans are detained from the factory but that is no biggie.Also the internals in the 80e in the dmax van are beefed up, they are the best cores to find for us hot rod guys.

A dmax van would be an awesome DD / utility vehicle.

Here's my work van - 6.0/80e , I cleaned her up and put my dmax wheels on it, I love it!

 

There's Julien, rollin dirty in the dirtymax van...DO IT

 

The more I look into it the more I like it!!
Now to find a nice one!

 

I think they are very cool, I always thought it would be cool to get one for the same reasons you listed..

and if you get one with a little bit more options on it, it will have the composite headlights instead of the bug eyed sealed beams. We have several (none diesels) at my work and they are laid out decent and comfy to drive, tons of room to do.. pretty much whatever you wanted

 

Found a pretty sweet one recently that has those nicer headlights, 20's, nice stereo system and the inside was rigged for hauling bikes and has a bed inside it as well.
Was talking to a buddy and I'd like to bag it, not to make it lay frame or anything useless like that but stock those things are too high and the bags would help when towing big loads as well.

 

any pictures?

that sounds about perfect, its the nicer version.. and already set up for what you said you wanted to do with it!

 

I wish I had another work van. They are so multi-useful. Get one you like and enjoy the hell outta it.

 

aw man this thread got me thinking about how awesome it would by to DD a dmax cargo van.
so i scroll through the local craigslist and BAM
2006 Chevrolet Express 2500 Cargo Van 6.6L Diesel 1-OWNER *Low Miles*


So many Possibilities

 

I think I'm gonna pull the trigger!

 

Do it!