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Production Models - 2006 Chevrolet Express Van


2006 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AVAILABLE WITH DURAMAX 6600 TURBO-DIESEL
Source: GM Media

The Chevrolet Express sees a host of duties: as a proven passenger hauler – able to accommodate up to 15 passengers – as the foundation for conversion vans and as a durable and reliable commercial cargo van. As such, Express customers rely on their vehicles to haul and tow items. That task becomes even easier for 2006 with the introduction of the Duramax 6600 turbo-diesel V-8 engine. This sophisticated diesel engine offers more horsepower and torque than the primary competitor, as well as a quieter driving experience and better projected fuel economy. It’s available on G2500 and G3500 series cargo and cutaway models.

“With the inherent capabilities of a diesel engine and excellent fuel economy, the Duramax 6600 is a win-win scenario for Express Cargo Van customers,” said Ray Chess, vehicle line executive. “This engine also is quiet, refined and delivers a smoothness that is unexpected in a powerful diesel-powered vehicle.”

Duramax 6600 turbo-diesel
The Duramax 6600 delivers 250 horsepower (186 kw) and a class-leading 460 lb.-ft. of torque (624 Nm). It is teamed with the Hydra-Matic 4L85-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission, which is specially tuned for diesel-engine compatibility, giving Express exceptional towing and grade capability. It’s available on G2500 and G3500 Express Cargo Van models.

Features such as electronic throttle control, fast-heating glow plugs and easy-service items enhance the driving and ownership experience. Minimal changes to support the new powertrain were made to the vehicle structure, thereby reducing the impact of equipment changes by upfitters.

With the Duramax 6600, Express’ maximum GVWR is 12,300, with a towing capacity of 10,000 pounds – specifications that meet or exceed those of the primary competitor. A 3.73 axle ratio is standard and the RPO G80 limited-slip differential is optional.

Quietness and smoothness, particularly at idle, are traits designed into the Duramax 6600. They’ve been enhanced in the ’06 engine, thanks to a strengthened iron cylinder block and revised piston design that reduces the compression ratio. The lower compression reduces the “clattering” sound of the engine at idle, while also helping to improve overall smoothness during driving. The lower compression also helps reduce NOx emissions.

Even the engine’s turbocharging system is revised for quieter, more efficient performance. A variable-geometry turbocharger with aerodynamically tuned impellers is used to enhance full-throttle response while also contributing to reducing emissions. Also, the variable-geometry turbocharger is used in cold weather to enhance heater warm-up (similar to GM medium-duty trucks).

To support the new powertrain, Express models equipped with the Duramax 6600 also include:
  • Revised front floor panel and underbody heat shielding
  • New interior engine cover
  • High idle switch added to instrument panel (optional)
  • Instrument cluster revised to reflect diesel engine functionality
  • Standard 145-amp alternator
  • Primary battery located underhood, with secondary battery mounted on left-hand frame rail
  • Ambulance package equipped with a 50-amp Maxifuse connector at the B-pillar
A fuel-operated heater (FOH) also is available for vans equipped with the Duramax 6600 – the industry’s first factory-installed application for full-size vans. It quickly provides heat to the vehicle interior in cold weather. The seamlessly integrated system is designed into the Express chassis, saving customers the time and labor of upfitting an aftermarket system.

The electronically controlled fuel-operated heater operates automatically, turning on and off within load parameters that include outside air temperature, fuel level, coolant temperature and whether the engine is running. It features a self-contained, pressurized auxiliary coolant heater (with a surge tank) that uses diesel fuel to generate up to 17,200 Btu/h (5 kw) of heating energy.

Strong Vortec power
In addition to the Duramax 6600, Chevrolet Express offers its customers a choice of four GM Vortec Generation III engines. The 195-horsepower (145 kw) Vortec 4300 4.3L V-6 with multi-port fuel injection is the base engine for light-duty G-vans in all 50 states. A central fuel injector delivers a separate flow of fuel to six individual hybrid injectors for better performance and improved emissions.

The Vortec 4800 4.8L V-8 cranks out 285 horsepower (213 kw) and is used for heavy-duty applications in the 2500 Series cargo vans.

The Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8 has the ability to provide segment-leading acceleration. Used for light-duty applications, it churns out 295 horsepower (220 kw) and 335 lb.-ft. of torque (454 Nm), and is the standard engine in all-wheel drive models.

Those seeking more power can opt for the Vortec 6000 – the segment's most powerful V-8. It delivers 345 horsepower (257 kw) and 380 lb.-ft. of torque (515 Nm).

For greater ease during heavy-duty towing and hauling applications, Express features GM's unique tow/haul mode. It reduces the frequency and improves the predictability of transmission shifts when pulling a trailer or carrying a heavy load.

Express advantages
Chevy Express continues to offer uncompromising versatility in the full-size van segment. It’s available with two wheelbase lengths: regular length (135 inches / 3429 mm) and extended length (155 inches / 3937 mm). Stable handling, precise steering, superior ride motion control and balance, as well as a quiet, isolated driving experience are hallmarks of this vehicle.

Express also benefits from continual refinements to an already solid structure. The three-piece frame features fully boxed sections for superior strength and rigidity, while extended and tapered front frame rails are used for improved crashworthiness. Also, additional tubular frame cross members are used to increase torsional stiffness.

Confidence behind the wheel is enhanced with a standard four-wheel antilock disc brake system with Hydroboost. This system works with a high-volume brake master cylinder to provide increased stopping power with an easy, linear feel on the brake pedal. Dynamic rear proportioning also is used and helps apply the correct amount of pressure to the rear wheels, depending on whether the van is loaded. GM’s StabiliTrak electronic stability control system is standard on passenger models.

Thoughtful details are found throughout Express – items that become important to customers who use their van as a mobile office. This includes supportive front seats, excellent interior lighting, glove-friendly door handles, convenient storage pockets, secondary power outlets and durable carpeting. Also, an industry-first 60/40-split left-hand side-hinged door provides the segment’s most flexible loading capability. It is available on regular-length cargo vans and offers complete driver’s side access to the second-row and/or seats or cargo compartment.

Model lineup
Express comes in both regular (135-inch / 3,429 mm) and extended (155-inch / 3,937 mm) wheelbase lengths, and can accommodate eight, 12 or 15 people. Cargo vans, available in the same wheelbase lengths, offer seating for two. The cutaways, which can be converted to various commercial, school bus and RV requirements, are available in 139-inch (3,531 mm), 159-inch (4,039 mm) and 177-inch (4,496 mm) wheelbase lengths.

The 1500 Series vans include light-duty models rated at 6,200- and 7,200-pounds (2,812- and 3,266-kg) GVW. The 2500 Series includes light-duties rated at 7,300- and 8,500-pounds (3,311- and 3,856-kg) GVW (in CNG), and heavy-duty models rated at 8,600-pounds (3,901-kg) GVW. The heavy-duty 3500 Series includes full-bodied cargo/passenger vans rated at 9,600-pounds (4,354-kg) GVW, and commercial and RV cutaway chassis, with GVW ratings of 8,600-12,300 pounds (3,901-5,579 kg).

Chevrolet Express is assembled at the GM assembly plant in Wentzville , Mo.

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