Are they 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive?
All MiniTrucks are 4-wheel drive and 2-wheel drive - 4HI, 4Lo, N, 2HI. Some have a differential lock also.
What size are the motors?
They are 550-650 cc, liquid cooled, carbuereted three cylinder.
Will a Minitruck start in the cold?
Likely better than your half ton. Put a pan heater on it and you will never be disappointed.
What are these diff-lock and axle-lock buttons about?
Diff-lock locks the rear diff and axle lock is to lock front hubs. Buttons are found on the dash near the steering wheel.
Are they standard or automatic transmission?
All MiniTrucks are 4 speed, standard transmission, unless otherwise stated.
Brakes?
Disc front, drum rear.
Are they hard to work on?
Timing belt - one hour, clutch - three hours, everything is simple and relatively easy access.
Mechanical Access?
The seats lift up & out in most mini trucks for fluid & engine access, while a fairly decent sized plate can be removed from the box for access to the transmission & transfer case. The battery is found on the left side of the truck. Gas tank is at the very back behind the license plate, with the cap on the right side for easy filling.
What is the driveline layout?
The rad is either out front or below your knees under the seat. The front of the motor is under your butt and the transmission/transfer case is accessible from a large removable panel in the box. The engine is accessed by removing one or both front seats. The centre of weight is very low and forward of centre - with a grunt, a man can pick up the back end.
What about parts availability?
Some parts are specialty, but there are lots of crossovers from other vehicles and we will be compiling a useable crossover list. Many parts are available from local sources, and if neccesary, we do have a link direct to Japan that may be able to send something for you with our next order of trucks.