Make business cards with FAQs so you don't have to talk with people too long if that's what you have the most trouble with. That's probably what I would do if I owned one of these.
Just bought a 1998 Honda Acty van. I love it! It’s so much fun to drive! In the city it’s the best thing to drive. 55 mph roads it’s not ideal but it’s can do it. Make sure to do maintenance early and often you will notice a huge difference in the way it drives and sounds.
I like the Rim/Tire install in between the pros/cons list. I see countless of the "Here's 10 reasons why ..." But this is a great way to break up the monotony of those types of videos. Great work!
@@inkandpistons...you could with a heatgun on low-medium, warm up the paintwork to flex easier and metal of the under door valance's bodywork inner corners, with leather chamois wrapped pliers/plumbers wrench or a clamp, and gentle bend upwards or downwards, in increments of reheating and bending, the inner tips away from the almost too too large tyres to give more clearance, ....as you're right on the limit of a big bump while turning, digging into the tyre at some future point
There is a dealer in Goshen, NY (Orange County) who imports these. So I suppose they take care of all the lengthy procedures. My spouse is thinking about her next truck (for short distance hauling) so I’ll mention this idea to her.
Yeah, there are a few guys around here too.. I guess it's just a matter of is it worth the headache and time to do it yourself or just buy one here already
Absolutely loved this video!!!! Saw one at the dump and bang I was infected with the Mini Truck Bug! Ain’t got mine yet, but getting closer. Lil worried about our Mountains in West Virginia, but I’m seeing more and more of these, got a good friend with a beast of F350 diesel and his lil mini truck is his around town vehicle, plus his granddaughter can drive it on their farm! He has a tag made that says F-25.
Thanks appreciate you! Japan is pretty damn mountainous and these little sukers are torquey, so you should be fine! lol f-25 that's awesome.. more like f-2.5 hahh
awesome! glad i could help! They are pretty damn awesome.. i am working on a new vidoe on the import process. there were a few things i missed in the first video and a few surprises the second vehicle i imported. I'll get it posted soon!
I use mine on my farm, I got mattracks for it, gave it more ground clearance and capabilities. I'm 14k into my kei truck, while a SXS would be nice, the polaris ranger xd 1500 Northstar STARTS at $40k...... my kei truck has a larger bed, and has been an amazing tool on my farm.
Great video. I completely concur on all pros and cons. Maybe don't try to narrate over the road noise the next time. I imported a 96 4WD Hijet. I've been daily driving it for six months and I love it. I paid $265 for it at a Japanese auction, plus $1935 to ship it to Newport News Virginia. I have around $6000 in it now and after the upgrades are complete it'll top out over $8000, but it gets 31 MPG and it's amazingly capable and very practical. As you said, people see it and smile. It's the only kei truck in town and I feel that I'm bringing a little bit of happiness to a lot of people. It's weird that WOMEN approach me at grocery stores and gas stations to talk about the mini truck. I'm looking forward to your kei van videos. I've given serious thought to selling my 4Runner and buying a 4WD kei van. I don't know why I want a kei van so badly, but I do.
ha, yeah. It turned out the mic I had wasn't working. live and learn still trying to figure out all the little tech issues for these videos. Man you are real putting some upgrades into that Hijet! I'm kinda curious what 6-8k buys you! I just picked up the new Every Van, i'm going to do an update video on that soon had a couple of new discoveries in the process with that one! Thanks for watching
I had a 2005 Suzuki Every Wagon and it was so much fun to drive, but I traded it in and ended up getting a 2023 Ram 2500 Long Horn Limit Edition, such a huge jump from that to this haha I miss it tho
I have a ‘90 every 660 multi roof. It’s turbo charged and intercooled, so plenty of power. It’s got a 5 speed but when it’s in 4wd I get an “EL” gear, that’ll top out at about 5mph. It’s got a/c too. Gas mileage is in the mid to upper 30’s, the Turbo light is on a lot. Pretty comfortable and I’ve sat 5, only 4 comfortably and still have room for cargo. I figure it like a super golf cart with doors and windows.
Thank you for doing this video. I live in a rural part of NW Washington and have noticed these popping up on a few local farms. I would love to have one!
Good Tuesday morning to you. I loved watching this video, just purchased a Subaru Sambar from Japan. It arrives sometime in August. I am very excited to drive it. I have just subscribed to your channel to stay conbected.
Traction depends on make. Subaru will be the best then Honda then the rest. This is because of engine placement. Undermount tool boxes can help with storage. Safety I'd add a push bar, something between you and the other vehicles, and definitely would not be on the highway with it. We had the same issue with insurance companies in Canada. The one carrier stopped doing right hand drive but they couldn't cancel existing customers. Now you have 2 choices, hagerty classic car insurance or one high risk company that will ding you $800/month lol. So up here insurance is the most difficult part. Hagerty is dirt cheap, but not for "daily drivers" just weekend show cars etc
Yeah sucks these insurance companies keep cancelling people. So far state farm has been good and fairly cheap. I hear progressive will do it too. But didn't look into it myself. I agree with the traction thing. My van also has rear engine. I did mount an under mount box. Still not a bunch of room out of it but better than nothing. Push bar probably coming soon.. haven't had a chance to jump on it yet..
I'm in the Philippines right now and I love these lil' trucks. I'm thinking about getting one for my son as a project car. Definitely need the bigger tires. Nice video
I drove one that could handle 1500 lbs max with no problems. Tows a 8x5 trailer fairly good. Fuel mileage is main reason many people I talked to, got one, mainly with a 5 speed. Still a stout truck for it's size.
That's awesome. Yeah there are some beefier models. I saw a bunch of "dully" ones with the last trip I really wan5 one of those they were only slightly bigger but I assume on Japan they are not true "kei"cars they probably have a bigger than 660 motor. Thanks
Been using kei vans,trucks,and car,in the UK,for almost forty years,and had very cheap and reliable motoring,including motorway(freeway) use.All bought used,by the way.
They are little workhorses! I imagine they fit in great there, between the cost of petrol and not every car in the road being a full size f150! Do you have problems finding parts?
If these things become more popular in the second hand American market I wonder if aftermarket 6 speed gear boxes will be made so the car can cruise at 65 instead of scream at 60
Probably never get a 6 speed but a 5 would probably make a world of difference which are available.. also the automatic van I just got seems to have much better gearing ratios.
As for the bed, it might not be the greatest security wise but that doesn't really hinder its ability to store. I wouldn't really count it as a dock against its storage. Also, technically, you COULD invest in some personal modifications to fix that issue, but that's not from the dealer so it doesn't count.
I live in a European city and NEVER drive, so this is not the video for me. Nonetheless this has been a very well made review and if I ever moved to the countryside or had a second home there, this would 100% be my choice for utility vehicle
I just got back from Japan and was spotting little dually isuzus and Toyotas everywhere now I want one of those too! Lol. Maybe that'll be next.. Thanks for watching!
Much better traction on a Subaru or Honda as they have the engine in the back, which means that the weight ends up more on the rear wheels (which are the wheels that drive when it is not in 4 wheel drive).
Yeah, I'm sure that definitely makes a difference. My suzi van is rear engine as well no traction problems there. But I'm pretty surprised they made a whole different drive line setup just for the vans..
I think your traction issue is more of a suzuki problem. Suzuki mounts their engine all the way forward so with a passwnger you litterally have almost no weight on the back wheels. Daihatsu mounts their engine almost 8 to 10 inches further back while honda puts theirs in front of the rear axle and subaru is mounted behind the rear axle. We have a daihatsu hard dump which is pretty heavy (2200 lbs on the scale) because of the dump bed but i have a VERY hard time breaking traction even in wet conditions with the stock 12" snow tires. Just a FYI.
Yes I agree it's all about weight and partially those skinny tires. but the new, to me, Suzuki every van I just got stuck it between the rear tires so it's much better, so I guess the weight is better distributed on that
I am a Kei truck lover but unfortunately I might not buy any kei truck to use that in city. there is basically 0 collision buffer between your lower limbs and front...hitting anything over 5mph will get you hurt very very badly.
Very true, although I suppose you could probably install a crash bar up in the front if you really wanted to. Also guess it depends on what city you live in. You see him all around Tokyo but nobody's really doing more than 35 mph anyway and generally pretty good drivers
@@Dat_Carrot hahaha. The first time I did it I was cracking up inside and my drive through bank teller acted like it was no big deal.. total let down. Lol
Love the content, thanks for posting. Questions: did the larger tires adversely affect your off the line torque? Also, I think I recall in the original importation video you had to wait for the VIN verification process at Sheriff so you could properly register vehicle. Did person at DMV make some error? Thanks in advance.
Thanks for watching. No I don't really notice any difference. It still feels pretty torquey.. my speedo is still just about right. Going slightly faster than shown speed.. .. the wait for the VIN verification was because during COVID they were doing appointment only and only at one location in my county.. and it took a month to get the appointment.. I just did it again recently and they got rid of the appointment process so I just walked in and did it same day this time.
@@inkandpistons Thanks so much for the prompt response. I appreciate your attention to detail. I hope no more registration and insurance issues occur. Enjoy your awesome Kei Truck. They are truly cool.
I've never owned a kei truck but ive owned plenty of CRX and other 80s death traps. In terms of defensive driving, just treat yourself as if you were on a scooter, motorcycle or bicycle.
I am on the shorter side 5'8' 62 might be tight. But if you get the van you can move your seat back.. I think the Honda acti also has a movable seat, but you're probably not getting much out of it
I need to stop looking at these little carry trucks cause there is even a reasonable priced wide body kit for the early 90s model that looks sick and doesn't mess with the utility to much
@@inkandpistons bad enough that I'm thinking about a samurai rear axle swap for a faster gear ratio and if you can cram a g13 or a honda goldwing trike setup under the bed...
About how you would expect. it feels a lot more stable and handles a lot better around corners, you feel less wobbly than with the tiny little tires that were on it. It definitely creates a much bumpier ride. I would prefer to find a tire with a little bit more meat on it. They are just really limited sizes since I would have to go down to a 13 or 14-in rim.. but most importantly it looks cool 😎
Well I think a lot of that has to do with how you drive and the condition of the vehicle and even the location.. I have recorded my milage a few times and have averaged better in the winter (Florida winter in the 60-70's) I think the best I did was in high 40s worst was 28-30. Still better than my suburban and my Buick combined! I think our lower octane in the US makes it harder to get the higher numbers..
Excellent video...!!! You are one cool guy!!! I've been thinking about buying Kei Truck for a while. Does the seat and interior get hot because the engine is under the cab? I dig the Z, i drove a 78 Z across country, was amazing.
Thanks! Oddly no, I don't really notice much of any heat transfer. When I reupholstered the seat I added some dynomat which quiets it a bit and adds just a slight bit of insulation.. but even before I did that I never really noticed any extra heat.. plus it's more under the bed and closer to the passenger side. The wife has never complained. And she definitely would 😁. I'm going to have to do a big z road trip one day. Love driving that car!
I don't know why people say the kei truck engine makes the seat hot. It seems like it might, but it doesn't in my Hijet. It's just not an issue. It's a kei truck internet rumor that won't die because people who have no practical experience keep repeating the ignorant nonsense.
what insurance do you use? Im importing my Hyundai porter 2 here in a year or so and im trying to get that handled out (Too new for antique so its going to be non highway only)
im not sure what a diahatsu "naked" is but sounds good to me LOL. I think that the elements are pretty cool and you have the advantage of findable parts in the states.. but something about a odd car no one else has.. naked or not.. :)
That's actually one of the things I plan to do to the van when it gets here and I've already been trying to track down the parts needed. I've read that it is not possible. But I'm sure I can figure something out that will work. I like the round lights much better. Thanks for watching. 😁
@@inkandpistons wow I have fully clear square lights on my suzuki dc51t and want some circle ones but after searching every Facebook group and all the internet I haven't found anyone whos even talked about it let alone tried it, that and its impossible to find the parts to do the swap as you would need the full front of the car ):
@@johnbaker3331 yeah I'm not looking forward to finding all the parts.. I'm traveling to Japan in December so maybe I can hit some junk yards! My carry on will look pretty funny
Thanks for watching! Grabbed them on eBay. The stock tires are only a 12 inner diameter and these are 15 so they won't stretch to fit.. but tires can be bought pretty inexpensively . Between 250 and 350 for tires.. rims cost about 450-550
I have a whole playlist on it. It got in a little fender bender last year so there will be an update on that soon. As it's taken that long to get all the parts czcams.com/play/PLIAMEAMIBkQR-c5Fs_-sCcHx76RhELf9c.html&si=647CO8IlMfx6KOAe
Sold!!! (Actually soon to purchase) I deliver pizzas, and this would be perfect!!! (Detroit,MI) it just would require a delivery box, and I just so happen to be very HaNdY😂... Great video
It does. I enjoy backing thru tho. A drive thru worker told me someone else has a rhd and uses one of the reachy claw cane things to hand over the money and take the bag. The REALL princely act is parallel parking (like for take out) and stepping onto the sidewalk instead of into the street. No wonder the mail trucks are rhd and UPS has the big open stair door with practically no access via the left.
I can't speak to the Honda specifically, I haven't owned one.. there are really a couple of things I like about the Suzuki that made me choose it . It was cheaper than any of the Hondas I could find with similar mileage.. I like the placement of the engine centered rather than between the rear wheels. It seems more balanced.. I wanted round head lights, I just like the look better. I think all the Honda are square. (I could be wrong) I do think the Honda has a bit more in cabin room which sounds better. And the Honda is probably much more reliable.. I may go after a Honda acty van next... If I do I'll let you know how it compares to my Suzuki.. but it will be a while before I get one. Thanks good luck!
@@adnerayala3409 I'm sure you'll be fine with the Honda.. (I have a suspicion the parts may be easier or more interchangeable) Suzuki made a bunch of charges for every model and application.. so I was having a bit of a hard time finding some stuff recently.. not terrible but time consuming
I love it. But I've had them about 20 years this point it's very low maintenance and it's hard for me to do anything else. But I'm seriously contemplating cutting it.. I had it for 3 years back in the 90s then shaved it all off in '01 then began immediately growing it back I locked them back up in 2005 once my hair got shoulder length.. think of all the money I've saved in hair product and haircuts. lol
I had a title company do the dmv stuff . I did have to make an appt to do the vin verification myself though.. I have a video with the cost breakdown at the end as well as the process. czcams.com/video/H7SGKglbTQs/video.html
My county clerk's office is a bureaucratic pain, so I went to the rural county east of me to title and register my mini truck. There was a $15 sheriff's inspection which was apparently to determine that the chassis number matched the paperwork and it wasn't a stolen vehicle. The title and registration paperwork was more tedious than usual, but no trip to the DMV is pleasant. They needed to convert the paperwork (commercial invoice, DOT and EPA forms, IRS gas guzzler form, etc.) into a new title so I could register it. On the plus side, the state and local taxes were based on the sale price. I paid $265 for the truck, and they didn't calculate the taxes based on the $1935 in shipping. Inspection, taxes, license plate and registration for a year and a half was under $60. All of this varies greatly by state, with many states refusing to license kei trucks for on road use, so make sure you can register a kei truck before buying one.
I'm only 5'8 but I fit okay. I think you'll be good at 5:11. Maybe a bit of a squish.. you'll have plenty of headroom depends on how long your legs are
I do almost everything myself it's all relatively easy stuff. I did have a shop help me on my mini van when we were trying to trouble shoot the stalling that was happening.. (next video) and I just did a coil over install myself. It's all pretty easy stuff if you like problem solving and wrench turning
@@inkandpistons, is it easier and/or cheaper to buy one yourself or through a dealer here in the states if you live in Kansas and can't get to a port city?
@@oromis16 that is hard to say. If you have a truck and a trailer (or you can even load it up on a small U-Haul trailer). It might be worth it to head down to Texas and pick it up from that port. From what I've been seeing, most people buying them from us-based importers/dealers are paying between 8 and 10 grand for a decent condition truck. If you do it all yourself you can probably get one for closer to 5000 in similar shape and then the cost of going to get it, registration, hotel, trailer.. your still probably ahead of the game.
@oromis16 There is a place called minitrucks.net . Im not affiliated and I know nothing about them other than they have a bunch of them and they are in Texas.. I'd just google the makes and see what's around Facebook marketplaces has a shit tone too
@@inkandpistons - I get a lot of comments at the drive through, just like everyplace else. Everyone likes the mini truck and they have a lot of questions. I stopped driving backwards through the drive in. I have ridiculously long arms so I roll down the passenger window and reach across the narrow mini truck.
The vehicle itself sure, importing in all the other stuff not really.. you might be able to get it here a little cheaper if it goes into a container as opposed to a roll-on roll off boat.. but then you're going to have other fees dealing with a container.. there are a couple vehicles on car from Japan listed right now for 2400-2900 total price to Jacksonville.. are you still probably have about another 3 to 500 bucks in miscellaneous fees.. it also depends on where you live. Some ports may be cheaper
For the cheap auction grade 3 Kei Trucks, expect to spend about $3500 at the absolute minimum to get to the port of pickup and have it released. Keep in mind this is the bottom of the barrel price point so expect the truck will need work - make sure to look up the maintenance cost of parts before you even start the process. I've been importing these for several years and I am speaking from my personal experiences aka mistakes. Overall though - excellent option when compared to a Mule or Gator and you can take it on the street to run some errands to boot.
@@inkandpistons - It's my understanding that RORO is much less expensive than shipping a car in a shipping container, and the people who do that want maximum protection when importing an expensive luxury car or sports car. One advantage of a container is that you can ship car parts in or around the vehicle, which isn't allowed for RORO imports into the US. RORO is the vehicle and nothing else.
@@Liberty4Ever Yes, I agree. I think that sounds about right. Also though with a container you might be able to put two cars or more in it if you get a 40 ft at which point it might average out to be less..
@inkandpistons sadly yes. After buying a house I realized a truck would be very helpful and then found out about kei trucks. Was excited at first since it is a perfect truck for basic home needs. Compact, great gas mileage, cheap, not a pile of rust that someone's wants 5k+ for, etc. So I checked with my friend that did importing for a few years. He informed me that the NY DMV will not register any kei truck. They deemed them unsafe. Checked the DMV and they have it explicitly stated no kei trucks. He did say the a nissan atlas is allowed since it counts as a full size. But they all seem to be significantly more expensive and get the same gas mileage as a standard truck. Which kind of defeats the point.
@@scow01do you know anybody in a neighboring state that'll let you register it to them? They can't stop you from driving there. Probably save on insurance. Not being in New York anyway lol
@inkandpistons for a while you could register one in Vermont. Then Vermont decided to nix that as well. Seems like the only way I've come across so far is by creating an LLC in Montana and then registering the kei truck under the LLC. Though I don't know of anyone that has done that.
This is so funny and true. I’m an introvert and had no idea what I was in for with all the questions.
Hahah, yeah it's pretty crazy, not the worst problems I guess. I've had to walk quite a few people through the process in parking lots 😁
Make business cards with FAQs so you don't have to talk with people too long if that's what you have the most trouble with. That's probably what I would do if I owned one of these.
@@mikekazz5353 ha, right that's the way to do it!
@@inkandpistons ..also quite a comedic yet honourific nod towards Japan's 'Business Card' culture too... 😅 '
@@razor1uk610 ironic how many business cards I've handed out since getting the van and the truck to people that want to import one.
Just bought a 1998 Honda Acty van. I love it! It’s so much fun to drive! In the city it’s the best thing to drive. 55 mph roads it’s not ideal but it’s can do it. Make sure to do maintenance early and often you will notice a huge difference in the way it drives and sounds.
Nice, I've been eyeballing an acty for my next purchase! So awesome around town
"Sit up straight, shut up, and drive" -- nice!
Lol.. yup 😅
I like the Rim/Tire install in between the pros/cons list. I see countless of the "Here's 10 reasons why ..." But this is a great way to break up the monotony of those types of videos. Great work!
Thanks for noticing. I thought it'd be a fun way to break up the video and kill two birds with one stone..
@@inkandpistons...you could with a heatgun on low-medium, warm up the paintwork to flex easier and metal of the under door valance's bodywork inner corners, with leather chamois wrapped pliers/plumbers wrench or a clamp, and gentle bend upwards or downwards, in increments of reheating and bending, the inner tips away from the almost too too large tyres to give more clearance,
....as you're right on the limit of a big bump while turning, digging into the tyre at some future point
There is a dealer in Goshen, NY (Orange County) who imports these. So I suppose they take care of all the lengthy procedures. My spouse is thinking about her next truck (for short distance hauling) so I’ll mention this idea to her.
Yeah, there are a few guys around here too.. I guess it's just a matter of is it worth the headache and time to do it yourself or just buy one here already
Absolutely loved this video!!!! Saw one at the dump and bang I was infected with the Mini Truck Bug! Ain’t got mine yet, but getting closer. Lil worried about our Mountains in West Virginia, but I’m seeing more and more of these, got a good friend with a beast of F350 diesel and his lil mini truck is his around town vehicle, plus his granddaughter can drive it on their farm! He has a tag made that says F-25.
Thanks appreciate you! Japan is pretty damn mountainous and these little sukers are torquey, so you should be fine! lol f-25 that's awesome.. more like f-2.5 hahh
@@inkandpistonsF2.5 is exactly what I was going to reply with, but you beat me to it. Obviously, I guess.
@@robertroberts5218 haha.. gotta be fast
F-660 ?!?
..unless you get a UK or EU 800cc, 900, 990 or 1100 engine, or a 'big bore capacity upgrade kit' 😂
I’m sold. Thanks for this. It’s the most informative video I’ve found so far on kei trucks.
awesome! glad i could help! They are pretty damn awesome.. i am working on a new vidoe on the import process. there were a few things i missed in the first video and a few surprises the second vehicle i imported. I'll get it posted soon!
I use mine on my farm, I got mattracks for it, gave it more ground clearance and capabilities. I'm 14k into my kei truck, while a SXS would be nice, the polaris ranger xd 1500 Northstar STARTS at $40k...... my kei truck has a larger bed, and has been an amazing tool on my farm.
The tracks are badass! If I had more property I'd be all over them. 🤔
I don't think the heat & AC on Polaris is very good 😂
How much does the windshield wiper on Northstar cost?
Great video. I completely concur on all pros and cons. Maybe don't try to narrate over the road noise the next time.
I imported a 96 4WD Hijet. I've been daily driving it for six months and I love it. I paid $265 for it at a Japanese auction, plus $1935 to ship it to Newport News Virginia. I have around $6000 in it now and after the upgrades are complete it'll top out over $8000, but it gets 31 MPG and it's amazingly capable and very practical. As you said, people see it and smile. It's the only kei truck in town and I feel that I'm bringing a little bit of happiness to a lot of people. It's weird that WOMEN approach me at grocery stores and gas stations to talk about the mini truck.
I'm looking forward to your kei van videos. I've given serious thought to selling my 4Runner and buying a 4WD kei van. I don't know why I want a kei van so badly, but I do.
ha, yeah. It turned out the mic I had wasn't working. live and learn still trying to figure out all the little tech issues for these videos.
Man you are real putting some upgrades into that Hijet! I'm kinda curious what 6-8k buys you! I just picked up the new Every Van, i'm going to do an update video on that soon had a couple of new discoveries in the process with that one!
Thanks for watching
What auction house or website did you use to purchase? Did they do the shipping arrangements as well?
Reason no. 10 is so true. Driving my Subaru Sambar is such a kick. Even my wife loves to be a passenger!
Lol. I think my wife has a panic attack every time I drive it cuz we're so tiny..
That thing is bad ass! It's scratchin' an itch I never knew I had.
Ha, its like a good ant bite! 😂
Seems like a gr8 little truck. But everytime I look it seems the prices keep going up..
Gr8 vid Thank you!!!😇
Yeah.. I think because the yen is week some of the resellers are artificially push up the USD price to offset what they would typically get ..
I had a 2005 Suzuki Every Wagon and it was so much fun to drive, but I traded it in and ended up getting a 2023 Ram 2500 Long Horn Limit Edition, such a huge jump from that to this haha I miss it tho
@twiggywebber8817 yeah thats definitely an upgrade lol
I have a ‘90 every 660 multi roof. It’s turbo charged and intercooled, so plenty of power. It’s got a 5 speed but when it’s in 4wd I get an “EL” gear, that’ll top out at about 5mph. It’s got a/c too. Gas mileage is in the mid to upper 30’s, the Turbo light is on a lot. Pretty comfortable and I’ve sat 5, only 4 comfortably and still have room for cargo. I figure it like a super golf cart with doors and windows.
Yeah big difference in power on my 95 turbo every. Better mid to high speed.. truck is better if the line but that's it.
Great video! Can’t wait to see more when the van shows up. 👍🏼
Thanks 👍 current arrival date is supposed to be the 6th of June. We'll see how close they get!
Thank you for doing this video. I live in a rural part of NW Washington and have noticed these popping up on a few local farms. I would love to have one!
They are pretty awesome they would be great for farm work!
I’ve got a Sambar on the way and I’m STOOOKED!!!!
Sweet. Those are pretty tough little trucks. Good luck !
@@inkandpistons its primary purpose is going to be hauling dirt bikes in and out of my local forest trails. Seems like the best choice for the job!
@@TheMotoShaman that should be a perfect dirt bike caddy.. awesome
Good Tuesday morning to you. I loved watching this video, just purchased a Subaru Sambar from Japan. It arrives sometime in August. I am very excited to drive it. I have just subscribed to your channel to stay conbected.
Very cool , congratulations. You are going to have a great time with it! Welcome to kei ownership! Better for the environment than a Tesla! 😜
Traction depends on make. Subaru will be the best then Honda then the rest. This is because of engine placement. Undermount tool boxes can help with storage. Safety I'd add a push bar, something between you and the other vehicles, and definitely would not be on the highway with it.
We had the same issue with insurance companies in Canada. The one carrier stopped doing right hand drive but they couldn't cancel existing customers. Now you have 2 choices, hagerty classic car insurance or one high risk company that will ding you $800/month lol.
So up here insurance is the most difficult part. Hagerty is dirt cheap, but not for "daily drivers" just weekend show cars etc
Yeah sucks these insurance companies keep cancelling people. So far state farm has been good and fairly cheap. I hear progressive will do it too. But didn't look into it myself.
I agree with the traction thing. My van also has rear engine. I did mount an under mount box. Still not a bunch of room out of it but better than nothing. Push bar probably coming soon.. haven't had a chance to jump on it yet..
I'm in the Philippines right now and I love these lil' trucks. I'm thinking about getting one for my son as a project car. Definitely need the bigger tires. Nice video
Thanks, yeah they are really fun and easy to work on
I drove one that could handle 1500 lbs max with no problems. Tows a 8x5 trailer fairly good. Fuel mileage is main reason many people I talked to, got one, mainly with a 5 speed. Still a stout truck for it's size.
That's awesome. Yeah there are some beefier models. I saw a bunch of "dully" ones with the last trip I really wan5 one of those they were only slightly bigger but I assume on Japan they are not true "kei"cars they probably have a bigger than 660 motor. Thanks
Been using kei vans,trucks,and car,in the UK,for almost forty years,and had very cheap and reliable motoring,including motorway(freeway) use.All bought used,by the way.
They are little workhorses! I imagine they fit in great there, between the cost of petrol and not every car in the road being a full size f150! Do you have problems finding parts?
If these things become more popular in the second hand American market I wonder if aftermarket 6 speed gear boxes will be made so the car can cruise at 65 instead of scream at 60
Probably never get a 6 speed but a 5 would probably make a world of difference which are available.. also the automatic van I just got seems to have much better gearing ratios.
Just put bigger wheels.
Best review EVER😊
Thanks appreciate it!
As for the bed, it might not be the greatest security wise but that doesn't really hinder its ability to store. I wouldn't really count it as a dock against its storage.
Also, technically, you COULD invest in some personal modifications to fix that issue, but that's not from the dealer so it doesn't count.
Definitely. The utility of the bed far outweighs any negatives. Thanks for watching!
I live in a European city and NEVER drive, so this is not the video for me. Nonetheless this has been a very well made review and if I ever moved to the countryside or had a second home there, this would 100% be my choice for utility vehicle
Thank you so much for the kind reply. I think they would be great to use in the countryside economical and useful. Thanks for watching!
Love it man. Just got mine and have been posting daily upgrades. 🎉
Nice.. I dig those wheels they look great
Thank you. Good to weave in the tires as list interludes.
I'm dreaming if a Sambar jumbo dump. I'm 6'5"/195.58cm and want the leg and knee room.
I just got back from Japan and was spotting little dually isuzus and Toyotas everywhere now I want one of those too! Lol. Maybe that'll be next.. Thanks for watching!
Thank you. Best review for kei trucks.
Thanks so much. I appreciate it! 😁
Much better traction on a Subaru or Honda as they have the engine in the back, which means that the weight ends up more on the rear wheels (which are the wheels that drive when it is not in 4 wheel drive).
Yeah, I'm sure that definitely makes a difference. My suzi van is rear engine as well no traction problems there. But I'm pretty surprised they made a whole different drive line setup just for the vans..
I think your traction issue is more of a suzuki problem. Suzuki mounts their engine all the way forward so with a passwnger you litterally have almost no weight on the back wheels. Daihatsu mounts their engine almost 8 to 10 inches further back while honda puts theirs in front of the rear axle and subaru is mounted behind the rear axle. We have a daihatsu hard dump which is pretty heavy (2200 lbs on the scale) because of the dump bed but i have a VERY hard time breaking traction even in wet conditions with the stock 12" snow tires. Just a FYI.
Yes I agree it's all about weight and partially those skinny tires. but the new, to me, Suzuki every van I just got stuck it between the rear tires so it's much better, so I guess the weight is better distributed on that
Great video, how would want to go about purchasing one of these vehicles.
Thanks! I made a previous video on the basic process.. czcams.com/video/H7SGKglbTQs/video.html
Great video! keep them coming!
Thanks!
Great video and very informative
Thanks you! And thanks for watching 😎
I am a Kei truck lover but unfortunately I might not buy any kei truck to use that in city. there is basically 0 collision buffer between your lower limbs and front...hitting anything over 5mph will get you hurt very very badly.
Very true, although I suppose you could probably install a crash bar up in the front if you really wanted to. Also guess it depends on what city you live in. You see him all around Tokyo but nobody's really doing more than 35 mph anyway and generally pretty good drivers
Reversing through the drive thru is in no way a con, especially if you are the extroverted type and like the attention.
@@Dat_Carrot hahaha. The first time I did it I was cracking up inside and my drive through bank teller acted like it was no big deal.. total let down. Lol
Love the content, thanks for posting. Questions: did the larger tires adversely affect your off the line torque? Also, I think I recall in the original importation video you had to wait for the VIN verification process at Sheriff so you could properly register vehicle. Did person at DMV make some error? Thanks in advance.
Thanks for watching. No I don't really notice any difference. It still feels pretty torquey.. my speedo is still just about right. Going slightly faster than shown speed.. ..
the wait for the VIN verification was because during COVID they were doing appointment only and only at one location in my county.. and it took a month to get the appointment.. I just did it again recently and they got rid of the appointment process so I just walked in and did it same day this time.
@@inkandpistons Thanks so much for the prompt response. I appreciate your attention to detail. I hope no more registration and insurance issues occur. Enjoy your awesome Kei Truck. They are truly cool.
@@mztokyo7630 yeah I hope all the problems are sorted out now too! 😉
I've never owned a kei truck but ive owned plenty of CRX and other 80s death traps.
In terms of defensive driving, just treat yourself as if you were on a scooter, motorcycle or bicycle.
Haha, me as well. You could not be more right.
How tall are you? I am waiting to get one but I am 6’2 wondering if it is even worth it
I am on the shorter side 5'8' 62 might be tight. But if you get the van you can move your seat back.. I think the Honda acti also has a movable seat, but you're probably not getting much out of it
I need to stop looking at these little carry trucks cause there is even a reasonable priced wide body kit for the early 90s model that looks sick and doesn't mess with the utility to much
Haha right those little body kits are dope. Do it, do it!
@@inkandpistons bad enough that I'm thinking about a samurai rear axle swap for a faster gear ratio and if you can cram a g13 or a honda goldwing trike setup under the bed...
@@T_TanksTinkers1066 hahhahha😆😆😆😆
Good stuff mate thanks - would have liked to know how the bigger wheels changed the driving experience though.
About how you would expect. it feels a lot more stable and handles a lot better around corners, you feel less wobbly than with the tiny little tires that were on it. It definitely creates a much bumpier ride. I would prefer to find a tire with a little bit more meat on it. They are just really limited sizes since I would have to go down to a 13 or 14-in rim.. but most importantly it looks cool 😎
Sorry ,gas mileage is not good ,got to be in the high 20s city , 30s highway to be good mpg these and upcoming days.
Well I think a lot of that has to do with how you drive and the condition of the vehicle and even the location.. I have recorded my milage a few times and have averaged better in the winter (Florida winter in the 60-70's) I think the best I did was in high 40s worst was 28-30. Still better than my suburban and my Buick combined! I think our lower octane in the US makes it harder to get the higher numbers..
Look old school cool man!
Thanks appreciate it!
Cheers this was great
Thanks appreciate you watching and commenting!
Excellent video...!!!
You are one cool guy!!!
I've been thinking about buying Kei Truck for a while. Does the seat and interior get hot because the engine is under the cab?
I dig the Z, i drove a 78 Z across country, was amazing.
Thanks! Oddly no, I don't really notice much of any heat transfer. When I reupholstered the seat I added some dynomat which quiets it a bit and adds just a slight bit of insulation.. but even before I did that I never really noticed any extra heat.. plus it's more under the bed and closer to the passenger side. The wife has never complained. And she definitely would 😁. I'm going to have to do a big z road trip one day. Love driving that car!
I don't know why people say the kei truck engine makes the seat hot. It seems like it might, but it doesn't in my Hijet. It's just not an issue. It's a kei truck internet rumor that won't die because people who have no practical experience keep repeating the ignorant nonsense.
what insurance do you use? Im importing my Hyundai porter 2 here in a year or so and im trying to get that handled out (Too new for antique so its going to be non highway only)
I got state farm for the 2 Suzuki's..so far no problem . Agreed value. No driving restrictions..
I'm tryna find a lowering kit or coilovers for this
@@Skuikidigitz try out my other video czcams.com/video/dhBCavVy5W0/video.htmlsi=in6KLY-jdwNU8kxM
@@inkandpistons bett will do
Nice video and informative. I imported my first Kei truck, 1993 Suzuki Carry. What insurance would you recommend for these ?
Thanks for the feedback. I'm currently using State farm for my kei truck and kei van
yo, u just need a tight bodykit and that's gold
I have been thinking about itm. They are kinda pricey.. I may have to build my own ! 🤔
@@inkandpistons czcams.com/video/4exIobXBXO0/video.html&ab_channel=HooniganProjectGarage
Im debating between a daihatsu naked and a reg honda element
im not sure what a diahatsu "naked" is but sounds good to me LOL. I think that the elements are pretty cool and you have the advantage of findable parts in the states.. but something about a odd car no one else has.. naked or not.. :)
I love it... please info me where I can buy one in Oregon
I think Tacoma is the closest port you can import then to. Out check Facebook market place for one already here.
do you think it would be possible to swap the square dc51t lights with the circle ones like you have ?
That's actually one of the things I plan to do to the van when it gets here and I've already been trying to track down the parts needed. I've read that it is not possible. But I'm sure I can figure something out that will work. I like the round lights much better. Thanks for watching. 😁
@@inkandpistons wow I have fully clear square lights on my suzuki dc51t and want some circle ones but after searching every Facebook group and all the internet I haven't found anyone whos even talked about it let alone tried it, that and its impossible to find the parts to do the swap as you would need the full front of the car ):
@@johnbaker3331 yeah I'm not looking forward to finding all the parts.. I'm traveling to Japan in December so maybe I can hit some junk yards! My carry on will look pretty funny
dude great list! love the wheels too, where did you get them? also imagine they will work for the stock tires as well or no?
Thanks for watching! Grabbed them on eBay. The stock tires are only a 12 inner diameter and these are 15 so they won't stretch to fit.. but tires can be bought pretty inexpensively . Between 250 and 350 for tires.. rims cost about 450-550
love those trucks :)
Me too they are little but mighty!
awesome video. Are you a tall person? Trying to figure out if I will fit in one.
Thanks. Plenty of head room legs not as much.. I'm 5'8"
I have to ask, what's the story on that Buick?
I have a whole playlist on it. It got in a little fender bender last year so there will be an update on that soon. As it's taken that long to get all the parts
czcams.com/play/PLIAMEAMIBkQR-c5Fs_-sCcHx76RhELf9c.html&si=647CO8IlMfx6KOAe
The last "con" you mentioned...
Drive-thru....
I am assuming the left door window doesn't open?
No, it does. just easier than reaching across the truck to deal with the drive up window. And kind of hilarious, to me , seeing the confused clerks
Sold!!! (Actually soon to purchase) I deliver pizzas, and this would be perfect!!! (Detroit,MI) it just would require a delivery box, and I just so happen to be very HaNdY😂... Great video
@@pheelphine nice that would be a perfect use of it! Lol good luck 😁 thanks for watching.
It does.
I enjoy backing thru tho.
A drive thru worker told me someone else has a rhd and uses one of the reachy claw cane things to hand over the money and take the bag.
The REALL princely act is parallel parking (like for take out) and stepping onto the sidewalk instead of into the street. No wonder the mail trucks are rhd and UPS has the big open stair door with practically no access via the left.
Hey buddy which company in Florida insured your mini truck looking for insurance
I used state farm they had a pretty reasonable rate
Did you install the bedliner yourself?
Yeah here is a link to the video czcams.com/video/BS_scBZ_HOY/video.html
You think this Suzuki is better that the Honda acty ?
I can't speak to the Honda specifically, I haven't owned one.. there are really a couple of things I like about the Suzuki that made me choose it . It was cheaper than any of the Hondas I could find with similar mileage.. I like the placement of the engine centered rather than between the rear wheels. It seems more balanced.. I wanted round head lights, I just like the look better. I think all the Honda are square. (I could be wrong) I do think the Honda has a bit more in cabin room which sounds better. And the Honda is probably much more reliable.. I may go after a Honda acty van next... If I do I'll let you know how it compares to my Suzuki.. but it will be a while before I get one. Thanks good luck!
@@inkandpistons Thank you for the answer so fast I'm thinking in buy one my self
@@adnerayala3409 I'm sure you'll be fine with the Honda.. (I have a suspicion the parts may be easier or more interchangeable) Suzuki made a bunch of charges for every model and application.. so I was having a bit of a hard time finding some stuff recently.. not terrible but time consuming
How do you like your hair being in dreadlocks? I’ve been thinking about doing something with my long hair
I love it. But I've had them about 20 years this point it's very low maintenance and it's hard for me to do anything else. But I'm seriously contemplating cutting it.. I had it for 3 years back in the 90s then shaved it all off in '01 then began immediately growing it back I locked them back up in 2005 once my hair got shoulder length.. think of all the money I've saved in hair product and haircuts. lol
What happened to Slave 1?
Got an update on it coming soon... Hopefully coming next week
Soon I will import one! How long you take all process in DMV? And around the cost there ?
I had a title company do the dmv stuff . I did have to make an appt to do the vin verification myself though.. I have a video with the cost breakdown at the end as well as the process. czcams.com/video/H7SGKglbTQs/video.html
My county clerk's office is a bureaucratic pain, so I went to the rural county east of me to title and register my mini truck. There was a $15 sheriff's inspection which was apparently to determine that the chassis number matched the paperwork and it wasn't a stolen vehicle. The title and registration paperwork was more tedious than usual, but no trip to the DMV is pleasant. They needed to convert the paperwork (commercial invoice, DOT and EPA forms, IRS gas guzzler form, etc.) into a new title so I could register it. On the plus side, the state and local taxes were based on the sale price. I paid $265 for the truck, and they didn't calculate the taxes based on the $1935 in shipping. Inspection, taxes, license plate and registration for a year and a half was under $60. All of this varies greatly by state, with many states refusing to license kei trucks for on road use, so make sure you can register a kei truck before buying one.
how tall are you. I'm 5'11" and wondering how cramped I would be????
I'm only 5'8 but I fit okay. I think you'll be good at 5:11. Maybe a bit of a squish.. you'll have plenty of headroom depends on how long your legs are
Thank you
can you do the maintenance yourself or should you take it to a mechanic?
I do almost everything myself it's all relatively easy stuff. I did have a shop help me on my mini van when we were trying to trouble shoot the stalling that was happening.. (next video) and I just did a coil over install myself. It's all pretty easy stuff if you like problem solving and wrench turning
@@inkandpistons, is it easier and/or cheaper to buy one yourself or through a dealer here in the states if you live in Kansas and can't get to a port city?
@@oromis16 that is hard to say. If you have a truck and a trailer (or you can even load it up on a small U-Haul trailer). It might be worth it to head down to Texas and pick it up from that port. From what I've been seeing, most people buying them from us-based importers/dealers are paying between 8 and 10 grand for a decent condition truck. If you do it all yourself you can probably get one for closer to 5000 in similar shape and then the cost of going to get it, registration, hotel, trailer.. your still probably ahead of the game.
@@inkandpistons, where would I look for U.S. dealers?
@oromis16 There is a place called minitrucks.net . Im not affiliated and I know nothing about them other than they have a bunch of them and they are in Texas.. I'd just google the makes and see what's around Facebook marketplaces has a shit tone too
Those trucks are not for highways and climbing hills.
@@chinachinaman7995 says who? Millions of them are used every day for that exact purpose
why not just driver through and speak out the left window?
That's not nearly as fun. 😂
Did tou really go through the drive through backwards?! 😂
Hahah Yes i did, but I totally expected a funny reaction, but I got nothing! I guess the lady at the drive-through has seen it all!
@@inkandpistons - I get a lot of comments at the drive through, just like everyplace else. Everyone likes the mini truck and they have a lot of questions. I stopped driving backwards through the drive in. I have ridiculously long arms so I roll down the passenger window and reach across the narrow mini truck.
Almost all of these cons are solved by having a late 90’s kei van
you are correct, that why I bought one of those :) too czcams.com/video/Ed_aY1pjzik/video.html
Is finding one for around 2k reasonable?
The vehicle itself sure, importing in all the other stuff not really.. you might be able to get it here a little cheaper if it goes into a container as opposed to a roll-on roll off boat.. but then you're going to have other fees dealing with a container.. there are a couple vehicles on car from Japan listed right now for 2400-2900 total price to Jacksonville.. are you still probably have about another 3 to 500 bucks in miscellaneous fees.. it also depends on where you live. Some ports may be cheaper
For the cheap auction grade 3 Kei Trucks, expect to spend about $3500 at the absolute minimum to get to the port of pickup and have it released. Keep in mind this is the bottom of the barrel price point so expect the truck will need work - make sure to look up the maintenance cost of parts before you even start the process. I've been importing these for several years and I am speaking from my personal experiences aka mistakes. Overall though - excellent option when compared to a Mule or Gator and you can take it on the street to run some errands to boot.
@@andrewloranger 👍 agreed
@@inkandpistons - It's my understanding that RORO is much less expensive than shipping a car in a shipping container, and the people who do that want maximum protection when importing an expensive luxury car or sports car. One advantage of a container is that you can ship car parts in or around the vehicle, which isn't allowed for RORO imports into the US. RORO is the vehicle and nothing else.
@@Liberty4Ever Yes, I agree. I think that sounds about right. Also though with a container you might be able to put two cars or more in it if you get a 40 ft at which point it might average out to be less..
Too bad you cannot register these in ny.
Did they fully ban them? That sucks. They would make a great city car
@inkandpistons sadly yes. After buying a house I realized a truck would be very helpful and then found out about kei trucks. Was excited at first since it is a perfect truck for basic home needs. Compact, great gas mileage, cheap, not a pile of rust that someone's wants 5k+ for, etc. So I checked with my friend that did importing for a few years. He informed me that the NY DMV will not register any kei truck. They deemed them unsafe. Checked the DMV and they have it explicitly stated no kei trucks. He did say the a nissan atlas is allowed since it counts as a full size. But they all seem to be significantly more expensive and get the same gas mileage as a standard truck. Which kind of defeats the point.
@@scow01do you know anybody in a neighboring state that'll let you register it to them? They can't stop you from driving there. Probably save on insurance. Not being in New York anyway lol
@inkandpistons for a while you could register one in Vermont. Then Vermont decided to nix that as well. Seems like the only way I've come across so far is by creating an LLC in Montana and then registering the kei truck under the LLC. Though I don't know of anyone that has done that.
@@scow01 yeah sounds like a pain in the butt.. I guess write your local government 🤷
I prefer to keep my legs
Just think, sooner or later they'll figure this cyborg stuff out and you'll be ahead of the curve
Security is kids these days can't drive stick :D
Yup. Absolutely. Although, I'm a proud uncle of two teens that can.🙂
@@inkandpistons and those who can drive stick don't steal cars 😁
@@DamianOzzy exactly.
Risk of theft: get the manual transmission, then you have the anti-millenial theft feature.
Ha, yes it is, yes it is.. and frankly right hand drive will scare the rest that do know how.