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| Is what I want available? |
| With a wide choice of mini trucks available in Japan, we will do our best to supply you with what you want. If we dont have it in stock, we will go looking for you. If its something rare or unusual we will keep an eye out for you and try to find it for you. |
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What is Japan's vehicle Maintanence Policy?
Basically, all registered cars and trucks are required to go through bi-annual maintanence checks. Vehicles are inspected carefully and required work must be completed in order to renew registration. |
Engine sizes
Up to 1991 all models had a 550cc engine .
The Japanese Govt changed the law in 1991 which allowed all "Kei" vehicles to have an engine up to 660cc.
All models from 1991 onwards are 660cc.
All models have a mid mounted 3 cyl gasoline engine except the Subaru Sambar which has a 4 cyl engine mounted in the rear. |
Which is the best model?
This is a commonly asked question and to tell the truth, no one model is better than the other..
(it's a bit like the Chevy vs Ford debate)
A lot of it depends on the terrain or the environment .
On very hilly , steep country a centrally mounted engine is better
( a central centre of gravity ) and perhaps a model with diff lock is more suited.
On flat to light rolling country any model will perform well.
The Subaru and Mitsubishi tend to have the larger cab which is better for the taller or larger person. |
Are "Tippers or Dumps" available?
We often get asked about tippers.
Generally they have had a hard life and are in such bad condition,
they are not worth exporting. However, we do occasionally find ones of good qualtiy. |
What colors are available?
They are available in any color as long as its WHITE!
That's it folks, although some do come painted in shop or company colors 99.9% are white. |
What gearboxes do they have?
Suzuki "Carry"- usually a 4spd hi/low but some have a 5spd + extra low gear ( 6 spd ) - no hi/low.
1st gear low ratio and extra low gear are very similar.
(1st low maybe very marginally slower.)
Mitsubishi "Minicab"- 4spd hi/low ratio or 5spd hi/low.
Honda "Acty"- 5spd fulltime 4wd - no hi/low.
Daihatsu "Hijet"- all have a 4spd hi/low ratio gearbox .
Some late model 1992 on have a std 5 spd g/box - no hi/low ratio.
Subaru "Sambar"- all have a 5spd + extra low gear ( 6 spd ). No hi/low. |
Are differential locks available?
Only in about 15% of Mini trucks have a differential lock feature.
Suzuki & Daihatsu from 1986 - 1992 put out some vehicles with diff lock ( elec - on the rear ).
Suzuki continued putting diff lock in some vehicles from 1992 onward as did Daihatsu , however again only on a limited number.
Mitsubishi's don't usually have a diff lock
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How heavy are mini trucks?
- approx 1400lbs (635kg) . This will vary a little depending on the extras fitted etc |
How big is the bed?
Generally they are about the same size.
The rear tray measures aprox 6' 6" (1900mm) long x 4'1" (1300mm) wide. |
