It is simple! It seems you can't grasp the fact that about the only commonality with these two vans is size. One is used in OTR expedite and the other is a fleet spec'd city delivery van. One is built on an SRW chassis and the other on a DRW chassis.
If you really want to know why Steve's Transit has a payload of 4000 lbs. read this thread, there is even a free video included: https://www.expeditersonline.com/forums/threads/the-latest-new-load-one-custom.70128/
As for the Frito Lay van, the OP's link only provides a picture. The OP isn't even sure of the box length. Morgan's website isn't very forthcoming with details. All we can do is speculate based on a picture of the van. One certainty is it is built on a DRW chassis. The OP was concerned about logging if he were to purchase a van like the one pictured. If this van is over 10,000 lbs. GVWR (which I'm sure it is) then logging would be required if operated beyond 100 air mile radius. If this van had a GVWR under 10,000 lbs. as Steve's Transit is, no logging would be required. Apparently the Frito van is 2 to 4 feet longer than Steve's Transit. Steve mentioned that to add two more feet in length to his Transit would add about 200 lbs./ft. I would think that Frito Lay, who had hundreds of these Sprinters built from a fleet perspective would probably forgo shaving weight over strength and durability that a city delivery vehicle would endure. Add two extra tires and steel wheels and a 1500 pound payload would probably be pushing the 10,000 lbs limit. That's just my thoughts. You're the van expert.
I'm still of the opinion that Frito Lay spec'd these to withstand the rigors of city delivery. Even the aluminum flooring is probably a heavier gauge than Steve's, especially if the box is 2 to 4 feet longer.
Any thing in the van plays into the total weight.
I'm not familiar with Opel's hiring standards. The employees who drive these Sprinters are merchandisers/sales people and some of their compensation is probably commission based. My guess is most of their work day consists of loading their van and stocking store shelves. Maybe 25% of their time is behind the wheel.
This thread is or was about vans, hence the van logic.
A lot of speculation here with no real hard facts. Lets get the facts and go from there. The truck is designed for whatever it can handle, the boxes are clearly different and unique in their on separate entities. So until we can have a chip van fleet owner to chime in or get Morgan Olsen (tried twice already) on the line it's all hearsay. I'm not looking to haul over 2000 lbs so if I can strengthen a 1500 lb floor then I'm in business. I'm also not going to use the truck for expedite. I need sheer capacity and the fritolay boxes seem to be the longest and slimmest boxes. If I can't make this happen I will settle for a 170 extended.
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