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Over the years, many options have been developed to improve van handling. Here are a few of them:
Handling Van Suspension Kits
Suspension kits for handling vans are designed to improve the ride quality and handling of the vans. They may have air suspension, coil spring suspension, or leaf spring suspension. Air suspension uses air-filled bags to offer adjustable ride height and weight distribution. It provides a smoother ride experience. Coil spring suspensions use spring steel coils to absorb shocks on roads. Leaf spring suspension makes use of layered steel strips that resemble leaves. They are mainly used on heavy-duty handling vans.
Handling Van Chassis
Vans are built on chassis specifically designed to optimize handling. For example, handling vans have wider front and rear tracks. The track is the distance between the wheels on one side of the vehicle. The handling vans also have a longer wheelbase. The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles. Wider tracks and longer wheelbases improve stability and control when turning corners. The handling van chassis also have low centers of gravity. The low center of gravity reduces the risk of rollover. The handling van chassis are also lighter. The light chassis improve braking and acceleration.
Steering Upgrades
Handling vans have steering systems that offer better control and precision. For instance, they have power steering systems with electric or hydraulic assist. The power steering systems reduce the effort needed to turn the steering wheel. They also provide proportional steering response. Handling vans also have variable ratio steering. In variable ratio steering, the distance between the steering wheel and the van's steering system changes. This makes the steering more responsive when making turns.
Tires and Wheels
Handling vans have special tires and wheels that improve grip and traction. The tires have a wider contact patch. The contact patch is the area of the tire that touches the ground. Wider contact patches improve traction when accelerating or braking. The handling van tires have softer rubber compounds. The softer tire treads offer better grip on wet or dry roads. Handling vans have low-profile tires. Low-profile tires improve the handling and stability of the vans. They also offer better steering response.
Stabilizer Bars and Bushings
Stabilizer bars, also known as sway bars, connect the left and right wheels of a van. They reduce the van's body roll when turning corners. The handling vans are fitted with stabilizer bushings that reduce friction between the stabilizer bar and the van's chassis. The bushings are made of rubber, polyurethane, or other low-friction materials.
Here are the specifications and maintenance of handling vans as discussed below.
Load Capacity:
Handling vans are designed to carry a specific payload, which is the total weight of goods and cargo the van can transport. This load capacity is usually between 500 to 1500 pounds or more. When loading the van, keep in mind that exceeding the load capacity can put stress on the van's suspension, tires, and brakes, resulting in damage and increase fuel consumption.
Dimensions:
The dimensions of the handling van include its height, length, and width. These dimensions affect the cargo area and the amount of space available for loading and unloading. The height and length of the handling van can affect its stability and maneuverability. The width of the handling van can also affect its ability to fit in narrow or congested areas.
Engine Size:
Handling vans are equipped with engines with different displacements, which affects the power and torque output. The engine size of the handling van determines how much load it can carry. A handling van with a large engine size has better performance and efficiency compared to a handling van with a small engine size.
Towing Capacity:
Towing capacity is the maximum weight that can be towed using a trailer or other equipment connected to the handling van. The towing capacity is determined by the engine size, load capacity, and other factors. The towing capacity of handling vans ranges from 2000 to 7000 pounds or more.
Fuel Efficiency:
Fuel efficiency is the number of miles the handling van can travel on a gallon of fuel. Fuel efficiency is an important consideration when choosing a handling van, as it affects the operating cost and efficiency. Handling vans with large engines and load capacity consume more fuel compared to handling vans with smaller engines and load capacity.
Tires:
Tires are the most important component of handling vans; therefore, it is important to inspect and maintain them regularly. The following are some of the importance of tires in handling vans:
Properly maintained tires improve safety by providing better traction and reducing the risk of accidents. They also improve fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance, which makes the van's engine work harder. Properly inflated and aligned tires increase the handling van's load capacity since it can carry more weight. Properly maintained tires also enhance the comfort and performance of handling vans by providing a smoother ride and better handling.
Brakes:
Brakes are another essential component of handling vans, and it is advisable to maintain and inspect them regularly. The importance of brakes in handling vans is as follows:
Brakes are important for safety because they help control and stop the van, reducing the risk of accidents. They also improve fuel efficiency by providing better performance and reducing the load on the van's engine. Properly maintained brakes in handling vans increase their load capacity and improve the comfort and performance of the van.
Suspension:
Like brakes and tires, it is important to maintain and inspect the suspension system of handling vans regularly. The importance of suspension systems in handling vans is as follows:
The suspension system provides a comfortable ride, smooth operation, and better control of the handling van.
Before buying a van for business, it’s important to understand the handling characteristics and how to handle it. Here are some tips on how to choose handling vans:
Size and weight:
For large handling vans, consider the size and weight when choosing one. This is because larger and heavier handling vans are more difficult to maneuver and handle, especially in tight spaces. Compact and smaller handling vans are easier to handle and maneuver.
Power steering:
Power steering is also important when choosing a handling van. This is because power steering makes it easier to handle and maneuver the van, especially at low speeds or when turning. Handling vans that are equipped with power steering are easier to handle than those without power steering.
Visibility:
Another important tip to consider when choosing a handling van is visibility. Choose a van that has good visibility. This is important because good visibility makes it easier to handle and maneuver the van, especially in tight spaces. Consider handling vans that have large windows, good mirrors, and a rearview camera. These features improve visibility and make it easier to handle the van.
Tires:
When choosing a handling van, also consider the tires. This is because tires with good tread and proper inflation are important for handling and maneuvering. This is done because tires are important for traction and braking. Choose handling vans with all-weather tires, off-road tires, and adequate tire size for the best handling experience.
Suspension:
Another important feature to look for when choosing a van is the suspension. A handling van with a good suspension system is easier to handle. This is because the suspension system absorbs shocks and bumps, which makes the handling van more stable and easier to control.
Some common handling van replacement parts that DIYers can handle include the following.
When carrying out DIY projects, remember to observe the following safety precautions:
Q1: What are the challenges of handling large vans?
A1: Handling large vans can be challenging due to their size, limited visibility, and maneuverability. However, their size provides ample cargo space. Drivers can overcome these challenges by using technology such as parking sensors and cameras, planning routes with wider roads, and taking frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Q2: Can electric vans handle cargo as well as traditional cargo vans?
A2: Yes, electric vans can handle cargo as well as traditional cargo vans. Electric vans are designed to provide similar driving characteristics and cargo capacity as their gasoline or diesel-powered counterparts.
Q3: Is it more expensive to maintain a handling van?
A3: It is not necessarily more expensive to maintain a handling van. Regular maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections is essential for all vehicles, regardless of size or type.