Purchased a mini instead of a UTV

[Rdrcr]

^^^^
I’ve seen a few of the diesel Hilux’s offered for sale at the importers in my area but, they are rare. Great little trucks!

Mike

 

[shooterdon]

The problem I have seen with the mini trucks is finding them at a reasonable cost. Many of the used ones are over 25 years old so I figure something is going to need to be replaced eventually and parts seem difficult to find. But I realize it might be me and my lack of computer skills.

I cannot justify spending $25k+ for a new one.

 

[jigs_n_fixtures]

The problem I have seen with the mini trucks is finding them at a reasonable cost. Many of the used ones are over 25 years old so I figure something is going to need to be replaced eventually and parts seem difficult to find. But I realize it might be me and my lack of computer skills.

I cannot justify spending $25k+ for a new one.

Most of the basic tuneup stuff can be found at any parts store. But you maight need to learn how to specify things. My Hijet had special three electrode spark plugs as stock. Which are not stocked the US. But, I went to the NGK Europe site, and downloaded the catalog. Which explained what all the numbers and letters in the part number for the stock ones mean. Then figured out what the correct number for a single electrode plug available in the US is. And cross referenced that plug to find several others available in the US. So, now I can by six plugs at the parts house on sale. And, since I still have the tools from the old make your own custom plug wires days. I buy a set of long wires for a six cylinder, and make two custom sets for the 3-cylinder engine in the Hijet. Needed a new thermostat. No way to look it up on the computer, but I measured the one from my truck, and figured out the Stant catalog number from their online catalog. Using the Stant number Napa cross referenced to three other brands they stock. Timing belt, just figured out how long and wide it is, and the tooth spacing, and used that to come up with the Gates number. Some things like clutch disks you do need to order from Japan. But the majority of what you need to keep one running right you can buy at the local parts house if you do some research.

 

[Tomtint]

The engine on my motorcycle is almost 3 times bigger.

How much can the dump bed on your motorcycle hold ?

 

[Rdrcr]

The problem I have seen with the mini trucks is finding them at a reasonable cost. Many of the used ones are over 25 years old so I figure something is going to need to be replaced eventually and parts seem difficult to find. But I realize it might be me and my lack of computer skills.

I cannot justify spending $25k+ for a new one.

I’ve only purchased 25 year old imports from Japan. The ones I’ve purchased have been in exceptional condition both mechanically and cosmetically. Absolutely shocking how well they look and run. And, knock on wood, they’ve been extremely reliable. I haven’t had a single issue and that’s over thousands and thousands of miles (I used to daily drive one of my RHD Japanese imports).

Parts can be difficult depending on make/model. However, as mentioned above, there are some domestic parts that crossover and there are some parts websites like Amayama that allow you to look up and order all the parts you’ll need (including trim). Computer skills are welcome but, there are other sites that you can call to order parts (in English). Shipping is costly but, that’s understandable.

In addition, assuming you purchase from an import dealer, the selling dealer ‘should’ be able to order any part you need. Some do repairs as well.

Mike

 

[jigs_n_fixtures]

^^^^
I’ve seen a few of the diesel Hilux’s offered for sale at the importers in my area but, they are rare. Great little trucks!

Mike

Most of the importers will look for, and order one if you want one. they generally don't order them because they are a pain compared to the mini trucks. You and ship standard minitrucks, 6 at a time in a 40-foot container and have room to add in a bunch of parts. They put the front of the first truck up on ramps and then run the next truck up a ramp and onto the bed of the first truck, repeat until you have it full. Which is why you see less vans than trucks.

The non-Kei trucks and cars are harder to fit and ship, so they cost more to get here. And, there is a lot less demand. They can pretty much sell all the minitrucks they bring in. The larger vehicles are harder to sell.

But, if you ask a dealer they can find them at auction in Japan and get you one. A friend bought a JDM RHD Subaru Wagon, for his wife, who is a rural delivery contractor for the Post Office. She covers a couple of hundred miles per day, and the 4wd Subie works really well for her.