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Sorry to hear that some parts people are not up to ASI professional standards. Our NAPA stores took every opportunity to get up to date training for our counterman. Since I had a mechanical engineering technology backround I would co-host the technical seminars with the factory reps. It was important to know the strenghts and weaknesses of every type of vehicle used in our area to keep our inventory correct.
The issue of maintaining adequate cooling, especially when using grill blocks, has a direct impact on automatic transmission clutch plate life whether you are driving a small import car or a huge CaseIH tractor. Attention to air flow under the hood will reduce total drag and improve the life of batteries, electronic controls, and hoses.
The only cars that have given better value for money than the four Chrysler products I've owned have been the two Toyota Corollas (5 spd). I would not hesitate to buy another minivan from Chrysler or recommend one. Like I said each model has good points and weaknesses. Consumer Reports used car guide has the best statistical data on reliablity. Even when our van transmission gave out, the parts were inexpensive and easy to obtain.
For aero mods, an air dam, partial or variable grill closures, wheel skirts, and tire strake fairings should help the the belly pan. Just make sure the sections of the belly can be removed easily for repairs. Use aluminum near the catalytic converter instead of coroplast. The rear hatch might benefit from a short Kamm section. I saw some pictures of such modifications in a British study and will try to post them.
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