Delica Canada | Mitsubishi Van Club

Hello everyone. New to the forum. Feel free to redirect me to any related threads.
I currently do not own a delica but it's always been on my bucket list. Problem is, I have NO idea of what to look for. There are so many models and versions, I don't know where to start. Here is what I'd prefer... Turbo diesel for sure.
Are there certain diesels to steer clear of due to problems?

4x4 is a must also. I'd prefer manual trans but haven't seen many with manuals.
I love the look of the l300 but as they are getting on in age, clean ones are becoming scarce. I like the high roof models of the space gear? Or chaminoix? Like I said, so many to choose from. I'm finding it hard to find clear concise info on models and options.
The can would be my daily driver, I'm not planning on converting it to a full time camper but a weekend getaway vehicle with some cool add ons isn't out if the question. I'd like one with the rear ladder to the roof.
Just cruising kijiji, the price range is all over the map. 10k for an l300 while a later model can list for 6k up to 15. Not sure why the huge price gap.
I'm 40 years old and live in Ontario. An hour and a half north of Toronto. Do I look at bringing one in?, buy something already here? Any particular years or versions to stay away from?
Thanks all,
your help and insight is most appreciated.

Teeko,
Welcome and Happy New Year.
Well you've narrowed it down to about 3/4 of all the Deli's out there. The price disparity you see could be between private sales vs. dealership.
I've owned an L300 for about 8 years now. I bought mine from a trusted friend who imported.

Whichever model you choose, do the research. L300's are nice but (living in BC)...

They are underpowered for mountains (marginally faster than a VW bus).
They have various issues: When buying make sure the previous owner has documentation or knows what has been fixed and when. As high milage vehicles things need to be replaced. Others here will add to the list:

Timing Belts?
Leaking front windshield
Starter?
suspension (any / all related parts)
brake pads / callipers
ECU (possible problem for the "no start" glow plug issue).
Exhaust
Cracked heads

The first 7 of these I have dealt with over my tenure. I can repair some things but prefer a good mechanic that can work on them (I have one here in Burnaby). I cannot speak for the L400 - Maybe some will add details about them to the thread.

You will also find that most everyone one this site has sourced parts locally. Find the Parts list on the site that relates to the model you want and keep it handy.

Good luck in your endeavour!

There are so many different models and trim levels you're best to look at a bunch before buying.

The main thing to look out for when buying is rust:
L300: look around the A-pillars, roof, and sunroof/crystal lite roof, and be wary of any fresh paint or overspray in these areas.
L400: chassis rust, especially around the front suspension mount points.

Mechanically they're fairly solid and reliable, overbuilt for how most of them are used, just keep in mind that they're designed for Japan where distances are smaller and speeds are slower, they're all quite old now, and as a hobby vehicle they might not have been serviced as thoroughly as they should. They're easily made reliable enough to use as a daily driver (there are thousands of them on the road here being used as delivery vans) but it might take a while to catch up on any deferred maintenance.

Thanks guys. Very helpful information.

Hello teeko.

I have an L300 that I've owned for a little over 6 years now. It's been the best used vehicle I've ever owned and I absolutely love it. I live in Ontario as well and I purchased mine Through Craig at Bonsai Rides. He was excellent to deal with. Not only with the initial purchase, but afterwards as well. He's based out of London Ontario. Perfect for those of us not out in BC.

I've partially camperized mine, but would like to import a proper Japanese camper at some point when the funds allow. I will also be making this purchase through Craig because of my positive experience with the Delica.

Look him up: bonsairides.com

Happy shopping:)

Phil

If anyone lives in the gta and doesn't mind showing off their van, I'd love to come see it and maybe learn a thing or 2. I live in orillia so anywhere north of Toronto would be close enough.

I live in Peterborough, Ontario which is a little over an hour from Orillia. You can come check out my '93 L300 Super Exceed if you like. I'll be in Orillia this summer for the Mariposa Folk Festival which is at the beginning of July. I performed there last summer with a friend and camped there with a bunch of VW Bus people. We camped right on the water and it was lovely.

Either or:)