need info on Hyundai Starex 4wd vans

[LallyTrek]

Hey all, I'm living in Ulaanbaatar Mongolia for a bit, and these Hyundai vans are everywhere! Very cool looking rigs, slightly bigger then a delica. The power plant is actually a mitsu engine from what I understand. A 4d56 I think. Anyway, they all come imported from South Korea, and a friend here wants to get his hands on a couple 4wd versions. The problem is the 4wd vans are taxed higher. A lot higher, almost doubling the price of the vehicle. Since parts are plentiful, I was wondering how feasible it would be to just convert a 2wd starex van to a 4wd? Does anyone know anything about frame variations from the 2wd to 4wd models? Any info would be great! Thanks in advance

 

[off-roader]

Hyundai and Mitsu do have a close relationship and they're licensed to build Mitsu based vehicles in Korea and possibly other markets so it wouldn't be any surprise for them to have a Mitsu powerplant.

However, not having the Starex van in the state's I'm not sure about upgrading them from 2WD to 4WD.

 

[LallyTrek]

mitsu hyundais

Thanks for the reply. A little off topic, but do you know if the Hyundai/Mitsu diesel parts can be used to rebuild a Mitsu 2.3L? I have a 4d55 back in the states that could use a rebuild. They must be the same specs etc, yea?

 

[thedjjack]

Go to Delica.ca for info on the parts between the 4d55 and 4d56.... the Hyundai parts generally fit...

If it like the L300 Delica 2wd to 4wd is a big big project. Solid Axle Swap would be easier as the "frame" is very different.

 

[LallyTrek]

Good idea. I'll check out the Delica forum. Thanks for the tip!

 

[4D55 Performance]

I have a Hyundia/Kia 4d56 engine in my 1983 Mitsubishi Pickup. There are a few differences but for the most part they are compatible.