L400 questions from a Delica noob

[nausea82]

Hi everyone. I currently drive a '91 Hilux Pickup, but I'm selling it and want to switch to something with a little more interior space. I really like the look of the L400s.

I have a bunch of questions (and yes, I used the Search button first):

What kind of options were available in the L400s? From the pictures I've seen, power windows, anything else? What about cruise control?
Any feedback from the manual transmission versions? I read the thread about manual in the L300.
What is the 4WD system like? Is it fulltime AWD? Electric on-the-fly shift?
I've seen 8-seat models where the two rows of seats fold flat into a bed. I'm looking at a 7-seater, though, with the second row of captain's chairs. Does it do the same thing?

I'd like to end up with a slightly lifted L400, possibly a manual shift, that I can sleep in. The one I'm looking at has the front bars but no fog lights so I'd want to add some. I also think the spoiler on this one looks awesome, very A-Team.

Anyway, if anyone can answer my questions or offer some advice I would greatly appreciate it. And if you want to buy a Hilux pickup let me know.

[bryanc]

You should have a look at moduk [delica club uk ] there is an Australian version as well , they will have all the answers you want.

[jessef]

Hi everyone. I currently drive a '91 Hilux Pickup, but I'm selling it and want to switch to something with a little more interior space. I really like the look of the L400s.

I have a bunch of questions (and yes, I used the Search button first):

What kind of options were available in the L400s? From the pictures I've seen, power windows, anything else? What about cruise control?
Any feedback from the manual transmission versions? I read the thread about manual in the L300.
What is the 4WD system like? Is it fulltime AWD? Electric on-the-fly shift?
I've seen 8-seat models where the two rows of seats fold flat into a bed. I'm looking at a 7-seater, though, with the second row of captain's chairs. Does it do the same thing?

I'd like to end up with a slightly lifted L400, possibly a manual shift, that I can sleep in. The one I'm looking at has the front bars but no fog lights so I'd want to add some. I also think the spoiler on this one looks awesome, very A-Team.

Anyway, if anyone can answer my questions or offer some advice I would greatly appreciate it. And if you want to buy a Hilux pickup let me know.

First off.

http://www.delica.ca/forum/advanced-sea ... mit=Search

Auto trans is better (reliable)
They are all 7-seater's (8th seat is a jump seat without restraints)

We're getting a 2nd vehicle and it will be an L400.

Looks are very different than the L300's.

But in all fairness, the L400 has the edge in almost everything.

L400 +'s over L300 :

2.8 TD intercooled
Quieter / smoother ride
Better road manners
More refined interior
Can buy in a long-wheelbase = more room
Rear disc brakes
Wider track (axles)
Longer wheelbase (more stable while driving)
Parts are all compatible with North American Mitsu Montero 92+ Gen II
Most important = SuperSelect . You have AWD + 4x4. The best of both worlds and it's selectable shift on the fly.

L300 +'s over L400 :

Easier to lift and put larger tires if you're into that
Looks more agressive/unique
Cab-over funny driving style
Cool box in the front
Some come with poptops, as campers, customized, lifted, sliding windows,etc...

L400 Spacegear axles, differentials, transmission, transfer case, hubs, brakes, cv's, etc...

= 1992+ Mitsubishi Montero (North American model) Gen II

I part matched the numbers when in England with US Montero and a JDM L400.

It will be easier to find parts for the L400 since you can get them anywhere (Lordco, Cnd Tire, Napa, Auto Parts +, etc...)

The only thing you'll have issues finding parts for are the engine/accessories/wiring harness and ECU.

I've driven both as well.

The L400 is definitely more comfortable and quieter in the front cab while driving compared to the L300. Quite a bit different.

The seats and positions are different as well as the engine is up front so you don't get the 'shaking' like the L300's.

Other than that, they are based on the Pajero/Montero Gen II drivetrain while the L300's are design-based on the 1st Generation Pajero/Montero's.

L400's have larger axles, differentials, 2.8, intercooler, disc brakes, antilock brakes and the interior comfort level is better.

The minor mechanical issues can be overcome if you like to tinker/mod your vehicle.

The only two things that put me off the L400's are the looks and the weight.

To me, they look like a soccer-mom-mini-van and they are heavy pigs for weight.

Even so, I may consider one as a second vehicle. Maryna likes them.

L400

[nausea82]

Thanks! I'd read those posts, but wasn't sure as there are so many options for these. How would an auto be more reliable? I had always thought manual gearboxes were simpler and more reliable. Plus I'm assuming in top gear in a manual I'd be at a lower RPM at highway speeds, thereby getting better fuel economy.

And by 7-seater, what I meant was 2 rows of captain's seats and the third row is a bench. I've also looked at one that had bench seats for both back rows. I understand that the bench ones fold into a bed but I wasn't sure about the captain's chairs.

[jessef]

Thanks! I'd read those posts, but wasn't sure as there are so many options for these. How would an auto be more reliable? I had always thought manual gearboxes were simpler and more reliable. Plus I'm assuming in top gear in a manual I'd be at a lower RPM at highway speeds, thereby getting better fuel economy.

Just the opposite. Manual's need more lovin'.

torque converter/OD on the auto take the rpm's down 15-30% in 4th gear compared to 5th gear on the manual's.

Auto - 100km/h = 2,500 rpm avg depending on tire size
Manual - 100km/h = 3,100 rpm avg depending on tire size

[nausea82]

Very interesting... Thanks for the help. Most of my driving is highway anyway. Are there any other issues with the automatic? I recall reading that block heaters (frost plug types), for example, are harder to install in the autos.

[Drooper]

What kind of options were available in the L400s? From the pictures I've seen, power windows, anything else? What about cruise control?

It think the options list on them was almost endless, the best thing would be to decide what you want on it then start having a look for one with those things on it

As already said you could have a look here http://www.mdocuk.co.uk/