Newbie looking for advice/information/tips

[mountaingoat]

Hey there,

We are looking to buy a Delica in the near future - we're on Vancouver Island. But we don't know very much about these vans so this seems like a place where people know lots and lots so I'd like to learn from you guys. I have a few specific questions, erm, make that a lot of questions:

- What is the main difference between the years the cars were built? In what way does this affect their design? With VW Westfalias I know that some years have more problems with their engines, cooling etc than others... is this the case here too?
- When looking at a used Deli what should be pay attention to? What are some of the most important glitches known about, bugs that should be fixed before an importer sells the car?
- How difficult is it to get a standard? We don't want an automatic and we're happy to learn the RHD - we drive stick shift in our other car.
- Would you buy from a dealer/importer or from private?
- Is it difficult/expensive to get parts for Delis? Will a Canadian Mitsubishi dealer repair? Or should we be prepared to do much of it ourselves?
- What length is the cargo area at the back when the seats are out?
- Does anyone know of camperised Delis? Where were these conversions done? Privately?
- Reputable dealers/importers in the lower mainland or on the island - any recommendations?
- What is the smallest engine size in deli diesels available in Canada?
- Has and if so when did Mitsubishi stop making Delis?

And, because I looked into importing a car from Europe once, how do Deli importers get around the TC rules that no car manufactured for anywhere but the Canadian market can be imported? Is it the age? If so, what is the newest Deli one could import?

Ok, I think that's it for now. Sorry about the lengthy list and my ignorance. Hopefully I'll be up to speed soon! Any answers, part answers, insights, thoughts most appreciated!

Cheers,
mountaingoat

[Golf Cart]

Welcome Mountaingoat.

As a freshman to the club myself , I can basically say that every answer to your questions can be found using the "Search" button. Easy as Deli-pie

Read til your eyes bleed. Saves a toungue lashing from one or more of the Souptimers here that have developed arthritis from typing the same things over and over.

Since you are on the Island - Go see Glenn at Coombs Country Auto

Once you get the hang of things here, Im sure you'll fit right in. You've taken the first step already by becoming intrested.

Enjoy

[fivestarauto]

hey... i deffinatley agree...read tons on here.. weve been dealing with delicas for about two years now and ive personally learned tons of information on here.... Glen from CCautos is my dad Jack vanroie's business partner on the delicas at our lot (Five Star Securities) he is VERY knowlegable and the staff he works has is very friendly and skilled as well!!

[FalcoColumbarius]

Greetings Goat,

Here is a link than may give you an idea of what to look for. As you look at your prospective Delica consider these items, you may not need to do all the items on the list but it will give you an idea. Check the rubber. Despite how well these vehicles are built, rubber still ages; in particular; the timing belt. The "4D56T" is an interference engine ~ if the timing belt breaks (while running) = new engine. Check the seals on the engine, the doors, bushings, &c. This will give you a good idea of what you are dealing with. I purchased the "Miss Lil' Bitchi" in Vancouver, I was able to walk around her, kick the tyres, try her out, get her checked out by a mechanic. If you import them yourself you will save money (assuming you get a good one) but you really ought to have a trust worthy connexion in Japan who can do the tyre kicking for you and knows what to look for. If you buy here there are "dealers" and there are "Deli farms". Delica farms are the little guy who imports up to six a year and makes a little on the side, as it were. I bought the Miss Lil' Bitchi from a Deli farm, a really nice couple, I have since had other items taken care of. When you buy from a registered dealer you are likely spending the most up front, but the Delica that you have bought should have had all these things taken care of, so it balances out. Also they should provide a warranty with the truck.

Ultimately, you need to be wise and coming to this site is a good source of wisdom, for the most part.

The list: http://wikrad.com/delica/index.cgi?to_d ... red_delica

Happy trails! Falco.

[delicat]

A good place to start...
http://www.delica.ca/forum/delica-faq-section-16/

[mountaingoat]

Hey everyone,

Thanks for pointing me to various sites! I checked out the FAQ section, have been reading non-stop since my post this morning and have already learned tons, answered a few of the questions including length, difference between models, things to look out for, camperised Delis, standard tranny, and it looks like there is only one size in the engine 2.5L TD.

I don't think I would import myself, or through a 'middleman', just don't fancy the nerve wracking and paperwork that must be involved. I think I would buy privately, so that I can drive the vehicle, take it to a mechanic, and kick the tires!

I am still unsure about this though: It certainly looks like people here do a LOT of the work themselves and we could be into that. But there is a good chance that we just wouldn't have the time and would therefore need to rely on a mechanic... I see people recommend CVI on the lower mainland. Anyone on the south Island? Coombs is a bit of a trip from Vic if you have things to repair...

Thanks!
goat

[quadzilla]

Hi Mountaingoat - drive to Coombs - do not consider anyone else - they will not come close to the quality workmanship that Glen and the boys offer - nor do they know the vehicles like CCA. Trust me. I live in Victoria and have had some experience with the local shops.

Good Luck.

[FalcoColumbarius]

CC Autos in Coombs is very good, indeed. Glen is the sort of guy that will help you out of a tight spot and has done so with me. CVI is a great place if you are on the Mainland, for that matter so is Japanoid. As you are on the Island I would recommend CC Autos, plus there is a great little breakfast spot near by that I call the "Goat House", 'cause I can't think of the name but I think you would really relate to the place with a nic like your's... smiles. Worth going up there just to talk to them, get the low down from Glen.
Also, there is a Delica meet this Thanks Giving weekend up at Fry Lake, West North West of Campbell River, where you will find the Delica in it's natural habitat. Check out "Events - BC Vancouver Island".

Falco.