I had a couple GM vans that wouldnt lock up the front wheels. All the weight of the engine, passengers and front end is on the front wheels. You're more likely to get the rears to lock up. either way, the fastest way to stop is just before they lock, so the fact that they wont may just save your butt one day.

You can upgrade but I don't know if ceramics are in order. I did put ceramics on my Astro simply because I tow at max GVW and sometimes more. Ceramics work great but they eat rotors like the cookie monster goes for chips ahoy. Brake rotors on vehicles that come with ceramics are harder and so endure better. Was there any improvement at all once you removed the ABS box?

NO CERAMIC's unless you have a good supply of rotors....I run Raybestos in both my G30's...

OK- Finally got back to the brakes, I just bought a set of Wagner shoes and pads. Not ceramic, but still higher end. Will get them installed tonight.

To answer your question, Yes there was a big difference after the ABS unit was removed. The pedal felt more "normal" but I still can't lock the wheels. The van will slow very quickly but not lock up.

New pads and shoes are on, took a test drive,BIG difference. The brakes will almost lockup, I'm sure It'll get better as they wear in. Takin' a little road trip this weekend so we'll find out. Feel a lot more confident driving.

Excellent, glad you had some success.

They Work!!!! I can lock em up if I need to now. I put a couple hundred miles on over the weekend got the shoes and pads broke in. Went to my daughters(hour and a half away) to work on their house and fixed their toilet, I always get the dirty jobs! Also flat towed my Nash to a car show Sunday. The Van ran great in the heat and the brakes worked perfectly!

Lesson learned- Don't use house brand brake shoes. I've never had problems in the past but I will never use them again!
Thanks for all the help guys.