What to look for - buying a 1997 L400 Space Gear?

SSSasky · Post by **SSSasky** » Sat Sep 28, 2019 7:05 pm

Hi Delica dudes and dudettes!

I'm looking at a 1997 Space Gear L400 with 128k on it in southern Ontario. I've done a walk around of the van and it looks good. Price is great. I'm hoping to do a test drive on Monday. The van comes safetied for the price, and the owner is the original importer, so I'm hoping they can steer me towards reputable shops in the area for service etc.

What are the red flags I should be looking for? Any specifics that I should look for on inspection, or when driving?

My wife and I need a van for practical reasons, and we want a Delica for adventure reasons ...

Thanks for any advice you can offer to this Delica newbie.

Ralph in Winnipeg · Post by **Ralph in Winnipeg** » Sun Sep 29, 2019 3:48 pm

There should be a few threads on what to look for when buying a deli, sniff around a bit. A safety only ensures that the vehicle is safe, lights, horn, brake pad thickness etc. It doesn't have to have a clutch to pass a safety so you still have to do your due diligence. The owner should be a good source of info. Did he/she do the maintenance and repairs? Do they, look, sound, act like that would be a good thing? If you do not have the experience or expertise, it wouldn't be a bad idea to have a mechanic you trust check it out.

Ralph in Winnipeg

SSSasky · Post by **SSSasky** » Mon Sep 30, 2019 7:44 am

Thanks Ralph. I'll keep poking around the forum. I've definitely got some questions for the owner, but overall things do look pretty good on it.

Thanks.

helibrian · Post by **helibrian** » Fri Oct 18, 2019 5:14 pm

I heard the frames rust out. I would definitely look at the frame underneath and the roof. I would also get there early to see if it starts ok in the cold. ( make sure he doesn’t pre warm it before you get there)

demiro · Post by **demiro** » Wed Oct 23, 2019 10:38 pm

I would check the head gasket, grease points, and the AC system.