Delica reliability

[Tmac]

Hi all, another newbie for ya. Although I'm really just an imposter as I'm not a Delica owner just yet. I currently drive a 1990 Toyota Surf. I lived in Japan for a couple years and brought it home with me. I like it, but am more and more interested in selling the truck and getting a Delica. Versatility is the biggie for me and these vans have that--as well as the simple coolness of the Delica. I love the fact that they are offroad capable (even better with some mods) and also classy for town.

What I really want to know is how reliable are they?
What's the performance like?
What are the major weakpoints or repairs that are commonly needed?
What are the features I should look for when searching for my Delica?
Does anyone own a camperized version?
Has anyone camperized their Delica themselves out here (pop top, stove, fridge, bed...)?

Another thing I wanted to get out there is that I am partnered with a NZ friend who works for a small import company in Japan. We offer some great deals on auction and dealership JDM vehicles. I'm actually a teacher here in the Cowichan Valley and am trying to get our import business going. I've imported 4 vehicles so far and currently have a Landcruiser for sale. As I live here, I can offer personalized custom importing and help along the way. I have references.
Some shameless self-promotion for you all

Any info on my questions would be much appreciated.

Cheers!

[Jester]

Hi Tristan
First off, you *may* find some of the members are a little twitchy about the NZ importers around here...lol
http://www.delica.ca/forum/jdm-wholesal ... -2071.html

As for actual Delica, I've owned mine for 6 months now with 0 issues whatsoever.
From reading up some posts from more seasoned owners, it seems like main issues are secondary ones, electrical stuff, peripherals and such.
I'm not sure if there are any major known mechanical problems inherent to Delicas. I haven't heard of any.
Talk to Mardy (MardyDelica on the forum) or stop by CVI automotive in Richmond, talk to Butch or better yet Edwin.
If there are ANY known issues, those guys will surely know.
Good luck in your search, hope you get one soon.
Martin

[JMK]

Cowichan Valley he said didn't he? Wouldn't CCAutos be closer and very bit as appropriate?

Forgive my ignorance as I'm from Alberta and no offense meant (but I'm sure will be taken and I'm going to get roasted for this), but are the the only leading authorities on the Delica located in Richmond or may they also exist elsewhere? Maybe it's just my imagination but it seems like everytime an opportunity presents itself a cheerleading section with 'Richmond' emblazoned on their Jerseys jump onto the astro turf. Let's be fair here and take demographics into account, if you're in Calgary, then you may want to check out Pro Active, if your on Vancouver Island, then maybe it's CC Autos, or Marigold, or whoever. And if you're in Richmond, then maybe it's CVI.

[Tmac]

Thanks very much for the comments/help.
I can understand if a past negative experience with importing could cause people to become 'twitchy.' My partner in Japan, however, is a close friend whom I've known now for 4 years. He is not simply an importer that I've partnered with. I worked with him teaching English and became good friends. I have 100% trust in him and believe that if he recommends his Japanese partners, they too are trustworthy. I have had nothing but good dealings so far--in fact they have gone out of their way sending me parts for my truck over the last year without charging for their time. What I am offering is peace of mind for potential buyers. I live here and have personal connections with my partners in Japan. I like to meet buyers and explain every step of the process. I am trying build a reputation and will make sure they are happy.
Anyways, my object of joining this site is not to promote my import company but to learn more about Delica vans. I want one!

I have done some searches here re: reliability and will make some calls to the businesses outlined above. Any other comments or personal experiences would be much appreciated.
Many thanks!

[The Pinkfingers]

Cowichan Valley he said didn't he? Wouldn't CCAutos be closer and very bit as appropriate?

Forgive my ignorance as I'm from Alberta and no offense meant (but I'm sure will be taken and I'm going to get roasted for this), but are the the only leading authorities on the Delica located in Richmond or may they also exist elsewhere? Maybe it's just my imagination but it seems like everytime an opportunity presents itself a cheerleading section with 'Richmond' emblazoned on their Jerseys jump onto the astro turf. Let's be fair here and take demographics into account, if you're in Calgary, then you may want to check out Pro Active, if your on Vancouver Island, then maybe it's CC Autos, or Marigold, or whoever. And if you're in Richmond, then maybe it's CVI.

What if you're in North Van, like we are? I've heard there is someone here that fixes Delicas, but don't anything of their reputation.

[JMK]

Using the search function I found the following thread that appears to be relevant:

http://www.delica.ca/forum/service-and- ... tml#p11072

[The Pinkfingers]

Using the search function I found the following thread that appears to be relevant:

http://www.delica.ca/forum/service-and- ... tml#p11072

I had found the Wiki list of repair shops. I was looking more for recommendations. I see the thread you pulled up had two recommendations for the North Van shop. Thanks.

[Jester]

I had found the Wiki list of repair shops. I was looking more for recommendations. I see the thread you pulled up had two recommendations for the North Van shop. Thanks.

My recommendation for you would be to make the drive down to CVI in Richmond.
It's the surest thing.
These guys work practically on nothing else but Delicas and Pajeros...and Butch's(owner) Civic lol