Alaska2Baja
Member
I wanted to go in another direction for our winter trips to Baja and so we sold the trusty F350/Callen Camper rig and started searching for a JDM diesel Landcruiser. After several months of looking I still hadn't found the "right" one, however during a trip to drive a newly imported HJ61, I found out about a cool little van that was in a container on it's way to CA. I spent a few weeks at the computer researching the history, reliability and capability of these unique vehicles and although it's certainly not the best choice for our longer trip needs, I decided it would be a cute and inexpensive project. If nothing else it will be a great daily driver and adept overland vehicle for shorter trips of a few weeks or less.
So- what I now have is a 1989 Toyota 4x4 HiAce. These JDM toyota vans have a 3L diesel (2800cc) engine, manual hubs and a Hi/Lo transfer case. It is RHD and a one owner, rust free vehicle with only 46,000 miles. With an IFS front end, only a mild lift of 1-2" is practical, but that will be plenty of room for a set of 215/75R/15 tires and Koni shocks. Currently, it is set up as a passenger van, but with the seats removed, there is ample space for a convertible bed, slide out fridge and storage. I'll find a place to squeeze in an AGM house battery and just like all my previous rigs, an onboard compressor to adjust tire pressure for baja's wash board and beaches. That will most likely be it. From what I am reading, keeping the load light is key in these little vans.
Anyway- wanted to share my new rig. I'm anxious to get started and of course, open to any and all suggestions.
So- what I now have is a 1989 Toyota 4x4 HiAce. These JDM toyota vans have a 3L diesel (2800cc) engine, manual hubs and a Hi/Lo transfer case. It is RHD and a one owner, rust free vehicle with only 46,000 miles. With an IFS front end, only a mild lift of 1-2" is practical, but that will be plenty of room for a set of 215/75R/15 tires and Koni shocks. Currently, it is set up as a passenger van, but with the seats removed, there is ample space for a convertible bed, slide out fridge and storage. I'll find a place to squeeze in an AGM house battery and just like all my previous rigs, an onboard compressor to adjust tire pressure for baja's wash board and beaches. That will most likely be it. From what I am reading, keeping the load light is key in these little vans.
Anyway- wanted to share my new rig. I'm anxious to get started and of course, open to any and all suggestions.
