1985 GMC Safari SLE review from North America

Head gasket or cylinder head cracked after 244,000 miles and repair cost more than blue book value.

I am satisfied with performance, durability, and reliability of my 1985 GMC Safari SLE 4.3 V6 engine, 4 barrel carburetor. It will seat eight adult passengers comfortably with removable bench seats for carrying appliances, furniture, building material, and more. I have owned it since 1988 with 65,000 miles, rebuilt original engine after 188,000 miles bored 030 over after excessive smoking due to worn components. The transmission rebuilt after 127,000 miles. It currently has 244,000 miles, but the longevity has been due to consistent oil and filter changes @ 3,000 mile intervals, very important for any vehicle. My van has traveled from Ohio to Georgia, Florida, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennesse, and New York many times and never broke down, while many new vehicles failed and stranded. I have taken the hills of TN many times with family, friends, and full loads and it never got bogged down for lack of power with A/C running! This is one strong engine with plenty of passing power. Frigid Ohio winters presented no starting problems because many times I have jumped started newer vehicles.

I called my van “The White Hope” because it has white exterior and maroon interior, and was awesome in performance and the best I have owned. The interior held up, except headliner that I removed because it sagged. The body has very minimal rust and cosmetic damage, but you are looking at a vehicle that is 21 years old. I have nothing but praise and adoration for this vehicle. The only complaint I have is changing spark plugs due to lack of room to maneuver tools. Recently the head gasket has blown and the cost of repairs is more than the book value, otherwise I would get it fix, so it is time to lay her to rest finally because it has been a very faithful van and worthy of much praise. My children were surprised I am going to retire the van after 18+ years of excellent service. We have many enjoyable trips and pictures to remember this one of a kind great van and would recommend this model to anyone because of my personal experience. I could trust this van to carry anywhere in the USA and get me back home with much confidence. It is a true work horse in every respect! I will miss this van very much.

Sincerely.

George (Columbus Ohio)