Without meaning to cause a problem, is it reasonable to suggest that you consider the age of the vehicle before you pay for a major mod? You now have a 12-year-old vehicle. Florida, being on/near the salty ocean, may mean that a bit of body rust is beginning to show. The mileage may be high. On a 12-year-old vehicle, major repairs are on the not-so-far horizon. It won't last forever - you may decide to sell it before too long. The changed-out rear-end ratio will not increase its resale value, meaning it won't pay for itself at resale time.
A new van, though potentially costly in the near term, might make sense. Your choice of equipment, such as trailer-towing options and rear end ratio. Better gas mileage. Freedom from rust, upcoming repairs, etc. An odometer that starts from scratch. And whatever improvements have been made (there are many!) in the last 12 years.
Another option that would keep cost down might be a van that is only a couple years old, though you wouldn't be able to choose your options in that case. Some folks here might even suggest that you forsake a van and think about a comfy pickup, with a set of racks to carry your boats. Pickups have a lot to offer these days.
Obviously I don't know your situation, nor your emotional attachment to your current vehicle (I certainly experience them!). But it is a thought.
Bill
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