Upgrading the subframe?

[pengyou]

From my limited understanding, the subframe has a lot to do with the towing capacity of the Astro. Is it possible to upgrade the subframe so that the astro will be able to tow more weight?

[mdmead]

I doubt the subframe is a limiting factor. I'd say it is stouter than the unibody attached to it. One thing that wouldn't hurt... and I'm not really sure how to accomplish this, is to build some kind of 'subframe connectors'. This is kind of a misnomer as our vans don't really have what I'd consider a rear subframe, but I'd like to see some more beef from where the front subframe connects... all the wa back to the rear suspension mounts. (In my case, my raised roof has stress cracks that I believe are due to flexing of the unibody.)

[dunedog]

In my opinion the limiting factor is as much the V6........

[Smiliesafari]

Dune hit the nail right on the head. It's power and strength of the entire drive train the determines safe towing ability. IMO the weak links are the rear differential (because they are so small) and the transmission. If you try towing in OD there's a good chance you'll damage it.

[dj_joker_2002]

Not sure if this helps but I used to build 4x4's K5 blazers to be exact. because of this I had some 4x4 type parts lying around. So when I switched front frames from the 92 safari GT into a 89 cargo (safari) van I found a set of poly body bushings left over from a K5 project and to my surprise they are the same so I installed them. The project is yet to be finished do to money and such but at least I can pass this info onto other club members.

[snapple]

I doubt the subframe is a limiting factor. I'd say it is stouter than the unibody attached to it. One thing that wouldn't hurt... and I'm not really sure how to accomplish this, is to build some kind of 'subframe connectors'. This is kind of a misnomer as our vans don't really have what I'd consider a rear subframe, but I'd like to see some more beef from where the front subframe connects... all the wa back to the rear suspension mounts. (In my case, my raised roof has stress cracks that I believe are due to flexing of the unibody.)

I've heard good things about the HI-PO spring hangers from Overlands. I got a set,but haven't put them in yet.

[rlsllc]

I agree that it is a total package thing, but no matter how powerful and stong you make the drivetrain, your hitch is still bolted to thin, thin sheetmetal. That's the part that scares me.

[Rileysowner]

Has anyone tried fabbing up an actual frame for the strofaris? I know it is beyond me, but wouldn't something like that be possible?

[rlsllc]

Has anyone tried fabbing up an actual frame for the strofaris? I know it is beyond me, but wouldn't something like that be possible?

I've seen more than one on a full size truck frame. It is the same way many hillbilly 4x4 cars are made.

[Cobra]

i've never seen that but sounds intresting would happen to know of any pics of one would you (lol i found a picture of a members van while looking on google make that 2 i found T.lows and i think lockdoc's)

edit: wow there are pics of members vans everywhere i'm sorrta impressed and a little jealous....