CHASE VAN SHAKEDOWN – TRIP 1 – July 3-7, 2001

CHASE VAN SHAKEDOWN – TRIP 1 – July 3-7, 2001
400+ miles, varied road conditions and terrain

EASTBOUND

From :   Bolingbrook, IL
Via:     South Bend, IN; US 33
To:      Fort Wayne, IN
Mileage: 203.3 mi
Time:    Approximately 4:28
Weather: 80-90 degrees, rain for the middle 60 miles

WESTBOUND

From :   Bolingbrook, IL
Via:     US 30; Warsaw, IN
To:      Fort Wayne, IN
Mileage: 184.8 mi
Time:    Approximately 4:35
Weather: 80-90 degrees, sunny

VEHICLE PROBLEMS

Major problems

NONE

Minor problems

  1. Transmission shifts a little roughly (“jumps”) around 18-22 mph during acceleration
  2. Transmission shifts a little roughly (“jumps”) around 53 mph during acceleration
  3. Engine makes a “trucklike” roar when running over 60 mph for sustained periods; fuel economy is around 27 MPG anyhow
  4. Driver’s seat slightly loose; seat rocks slightly during starting and stopping of vehicle
  5. Driver’s seat belt sticks during retraction
  6. Small ‘cats-eye’ knick near edge of windshield on passenger’s side

Other Observations

    • Observed as mileage rating exceeds EPA ratings (18/25) slightly: 18.8 city, 27.4 highway; overall for trip: 26.1 MPG
    • Approximate cost of fuel is 5.7 cents/mile (at $1.50 per gallon for 87 octane unleaded gasoline)
    • Calculated vehicle range is 528 miles, per the onboard engine/fuel computer. This is consistent with manual calculations.
    • Tire walls look very round compared to other tires I’ve driven, but this may be normal for this vehicle.
    • On previous trips, the steadiness of the weather instrument cluster has been tested up to 50 MPH.  The mounting system for the cluster is still under revision, and it will likely evolve from its current T-shape to an “H” for sturdiness at higher speeds. Both the T- and H-shaped base for the cluster strap onto the luggage rack cross members.
    • The metal pipe caps ans tees show significant rust after less than two weeks. (I thought these were galvanized!). Looks like a clean/prime/paint job will be required to fix his [cosmetic] problem.
    • I still need to find/buy/make software to tie the wind cluster and GPS together for somewhat accurate wind measurements while the van is in motion.

Conclusion

Provided the minor rough shifting does not indicate future transmission failure, this vehicle is ready for the open road.

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