Is Fixing Delicas in the U.S.A a problem?

[Cindy]

Hi Everyone,

One of the reasons I am buying a Delica is I was recently down in the U.S. in the canyons of Utah and fell in love with the country down there.
I want to do some exploring, etc. and lots of people 4 by 4 into the back areas and hike slot canyons, sand dunes, and backroads gallore.

So from this my question or concern is about availability for fixing the Delica down in the US. Can anyone tell me what there experience is with this?
I don't want to get stuck with a broke down vehicle and nowhere to fix it.

I am just looking into buying the Space Gear L400 Super Exceed 2.8 with the crstalite roof.
I am looking forward to camping, bunking down in the back and looking up at the stars at night.

Thanks for your help,
Cindy

[TardisDeli]

Hmmm, if you read the various posts, most people have found it hard to find a mechanic willing to work on something they have never seen before, and the steering wheel on the right side seems to confuse mechanics. You should become familiar with delica by doing your own maintenance, so if something goes wrong you can show them how best to remove and troubleshoot the problem part. Then you contact a local mechanic here to courier you the part. As you live in Nanaimo, you are near Coombs Country Autos, www.ccautos.ca ... Glen the owner who is one the best mechanics, and his super nice and efficient dad Graham who handles the phones and emails and ships the parts. You should ask Graham's advice before you buy anything. Cheers, Christine.

[Delicashop.com]

Getting parts is not an issue ex Japan but even in Australia where have approx 10000 Spacegears most mechanics refuse to touch them or other imports. They are relatively simple if you can get parts to your door which is 3/4 of the mechanics issues with any foreign car.

[Mr. Flibble]

I have my L400 often down here in the US, and I also spend a great deal of time in the Four corners area. (If you are down here, you MUST check out "the wave" see my photos here:http://www.walford.ca/2010/11/30/photos ... ution.html

I found that mechanics did not have too much trouble with my Delica - but I had to seek out GOOD mechanics first. Also, when they balked at the brakes, I told them that they were completely identical to a Mitsubishi Montero (many parts are) and they suddenly said: 'Oh, a Montero! we know those.'

Any good mechanic should be able to work on the engine.

Before you zip off into far 4X4 areas like Canyonlands, make certain you have all fluids checked, have extra drive belts (and know how to replace them yourself!) also have extra oil and coolant.

If you break down in the wilds of canyonlands you WONT have a mechanic around to help you!!!

Posting this from Albuquerque New Mexico at the moment! :)

[after oil]

stupid hater redneck mechanics wont touch your l400 because it is satanic. but most sensible mechanics will see that it is a vehicle like any other with a motor like any other, but just the steering wheel is different. i have learned that the mechanics are more helpful when i am more helpful. in other words, if i do my research, and help to steer them in the right direction (either from forum posts, or parts sourcing) the mechanic will be more plyable.

coombs can send parts anywhere in NA next day mail

[Mr. Flibble]

ADDITIONAL!

If you are doing 4X4ing consider investing in a Bash Plate to protect your oil filter and your engine from being destroyed! Also, bring along extra oil filters with you always! I keep 2 spares in my Deli at all times.

There is a very real risk of punching a hole in your oil filter when going on serious 4X4 roads in your L400 - which is why the Australians install bash plates.

[thedjjack]

There is no difference between a L300 & L400 and any other vehicle on the road. Any half decent mechanic can fix them. Typically you will have more luck with a small garage than a big organization or dealer.

Yes it is easier to get a Ford Exploder fixed, because parts are easy to source from their parts supplier and they have an idea of the repair.

The other problem is you have to supply your own parts and mechanics do not like this at all! They get 30-50% off the list price of the parts and then sell them to their customers at full price (they make money off the parts they use and if you supply your own parts they lose $$$).

I do not have this problem as I have only gone to a mechanic twice (once for a engine rebuild on a daily driver and to add a transmission cooler and both times they did a poor job). I just fix my own stuff now.

Last year when we drove down to Joshua Tree National Park, San Diego people loved the Delica especially the VW crowd.

[after oil]

i have had an oil change place turn me down in the US, claiming risk of liability because my vehicle was not in there system so the coulndt be sure they'd have the right filter (i gave them all the numbers) so another good reason to have a spare

[Cindy]

Hey,

This is a really great forum and thank-you all for the helpful information! I am not a mechanic but I am mechanically inclined so willing to learn.
How to video's would be good, a site that taught how to monkey wrench the Delica or if someone taught workshops.
Anyways, I will be sure to take along spare filters, etc. and will try to learn as much as I can! I will also invest in one of the plates under the van so as to save myself from grief.

You are soooo lucky that you got to see the wave! We were just down there and tried to get a draw but did not get it that day.
Only 10 draws allowed per day and there were probably 75 people trying.
Utah is a beautiful place to explore. The rocks, mountains, canyons, arches, etc are amazing.

Cheers,
Cindy