Should I buy

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mikewrede
Posts: 4
Joined: Sat Sep 08, 2018 7:22 am
Member's Photo Album: http://www.delica.ca/Photos/
Vehicle: Delica l400
Location: Penticton

Should I buy

Post by mikewrede »

Hello, I have found a 1997 Delica L400, but the engine is shot. It will require a rebuild. Seller is asking $2500, which I think is high. Would like to hear your opinions on going this route, or should I look for one in working condition? This would be my first delica.
Thank you
Ralph in Winnipeg
Posts: 239
Joined: Wed Sep 02, 2015 7:42 pm
Member's Photo Album: http://www.delica.ca/Photos/
Vehicle: 94 Strada
Location: Winnipeg

Should I buy

Post by Ralph in Winnipeg »

You've left out all the important information. What is shot? How many kms are on it? How mechanically able are you? If you get it for $2000 and bring it to a mechanic and say "make it run" start applying the lubricant of your choice now because you're going to get royally screwed. If you are able to repair whatever the problem is yourself then that is another story. Also, it's going to be hard to check anything else with a non running vehicle. How's the clutch, front end and drive train?

Get the seller to provide more details and let us know what you can do and let's see what happens.

Ralph in Winnipeg
mikewrede
Posts: 4
Joined: Sat Sep 08, 2018 7:22 am
Member's Photo Album: http://www.delica.ca/Photos/
Vehicle: Delica l400
Location: Penticton

Should I buy

Post by mikewrede »

Hi Ralph
thanks for the info, here is the listing below, and unfortunately i am not mechanically able

1997 Mitsubishi Delica Spacegear
condition: fair
cylinders: 4 cylinders
drive: 4wd
fuel: diesel
odometer: 235000
size: full-size
title status: rebuilt
transmission: automatic
type: mini-van
For sale 1997 Mitsubishi Delica Space Gear L400 It has the 2.8 lts 4 cylinder Turbo Diesel Engine and Automatic transmision.

The bad:
-The engine has a misfire and can not iddle evenly. It was diagnosed as a piston ring failure. (Yes, still starts and runs)
-Turbo is leaking oil.
-It has a few cracks in the windshield but none of them interfere on the driver's view.
-A few usual rusty spots at the under carriage.
-One tire leaks.
-A/C is not working.
-Will require Rear and front shock absorbers and uper control arms bushings. Is bouncy and clunky.

The good:
-Body in good shape, jus a few scratches and very small dings here and there due the average careless people at parking lots.
-All 8 seats are in good conditions, 2 of the 6 head rest are missing.
-Recently installed New Injection Fuel pump(Completely overhauled & rebuilded)
-Tires have approx 75% tread left.
-Front carpet in good conditions, mats missing.
-Wood & vinyl floor at the rear, easy to clean.
-Alternator rebuilded 6 moths ago.
-Spare tire, bottle and a few tools included.
-100% Insurable.
-Transmision, front and rear differentials and 4x4 transfer case in good working conditions.
-All cluster instruments, accessories ports, rear and front heaters work.
-NGK Glow plugs.
-Like new batteries, replaced 6 moths ago.
-Tailgate Aftermarket LED light.

Still can be driven as is, however, I DO NOT ENCOURAGE OR ADVICE ANYONE TO THAT. The engine may suddently die due the failure.
Is complete responsibility of the buyer to take it safely to its final destination.
Ralph in Winnipeg
Posts: 239
Joined: Wed Sep 02, 2015 7:42 pm
Member's Photo Album: http://www.delica.ca/Photos/
Vehicle: 94 Strada
Location: Winnipeg

Should I buy

Post by Ralph in Winnipeg »

I'd advise you to avoid that vehicle regardless of price. Even if you bought it for $500, the only person that's going to be happy is the mechanic you'll have to pay to fix everything. Keep your eye out for a van with lower kms, that is ICBC inspected and ready to drive and insure. Then bring it to an objective third party mechanic for a once over. Then if there's no big issues purchase it. You might dream of getting that van on the road for $5000/6000 but the headaches won't be worth it. Or import your own and get something really minty with super low kms!

Ralph in Winnipeg
mikewrede
Posts: 4
Joined: Sat Sep 08, 2018 7:22 am
Member's Photo Album: http://www.delica.ca/Photos/
Vehicle: Delica l400
Location: Penticton

Should I buy

Post by mikewrede »

Thanks Ralph
Was thinking about importing directly from Japan. Is this something that is relatively safe to do?
Ralph in Winnipeg
Posts: 239
Joined: Wed Sep 02, 2015 7:42 pm
Member's Photo Album: http://www.delica.ca/Photos/
Vehicle: 94 Strada
Location: Winnipeg

Should I buy

Post by Ralph in Winnipeg »

Importing direct from Japan is safe IF you use a reputable broker. I would personally recommend Brave Auto International and Pacific Coast JDM. The broker should give advice and interpret the auction sheet for you. I know Brave Auto does a road test, inspects the vehicle and all fluids and does an engine leak down test. They will also either send you a youtube video or upload a whack of photos so you can check out the vehicle almost in person. I found the entire experience very smooth, communication was very good and Thompson Logistics in Vancouver handled the unloading at the port, customs, inspections etc.

Check out their websites!

Ralph in Winnipeg
mikewrede
Posts: 4
Joined: Sat Sep 08, 2018 7:22 am
Member's Photo Album: http://www.delica.ca/Photos/
Vehicle: Delica l400
Location: Penticton

Should I buy

Post by mikewrede »

Thanks so much, you have been a great help.
Cheers Mike
helibrian
Posts: 117
Joined: Tue Jan 09, 2007 2:46 pm
Member's Photo Album: http://www.delica.ca/Photos/
Location: VANCOUVER

Should I buy

Post by helibrian »

When it runs does it blow a lot of blue smoke? I was thinking if the ip pump was just done maybe that is the problem with the ruff idling, could be a timing issue.
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