Towing 4 Down

[Itchintogo]

Hi Everyone,

I just joined this forum as I am considering a Delica as a contender for a vehicle for myself. I have a large Labrador to carry around and want room for other cargo too. I also would like the best possible fuel mileage (who doesn't these days) attainable. The 3 things I am wondering about for now are:

1.) Are the Deli's hard to get into parkade in a DT environment. I am concerned about height. Is there any model that is better for this and others?

2.) Any model known for the best fuel mileage? Gas or diesel? I am familiar with both engines.

3.) Can you tow all the Deli's 4 down ( all wheels on the ground ) simply by putting the transfer case in neutral? Again are there any models that are better for this than others? How hard is it to put a base plate on a Delica to attach the tow bard to? Has anyone used a Deli as a TOAD before behind a motorhome?

I like the thought and versatility of having this as a city run about and also as a toad behind my RV one that is capable of being a decent 4X4 in its own right. This makes the Deli an excellent potential candidate.

Thanks for any thoughts and information you may be willing to graciously share.

Best Regards,
Gary

[nxski]

Welcome!

I really need to go to bed so I'll try to give you some short answers.

1) Low Roof is better for underground parking
2) Diesel gives better fuel economy
3) I've heard 'no' on this issue before but can't give you a definite answer

[K-Factor]

Check out the Fuel economy Survey (use search). If you get a diesel you are looking at 23 - 29 imperial Miles per gallon, which is 7.5 - 10.2 km/l, but power may be an issue for you at 87 hp. 2.4L Gas version has more power and is easier to find parts for(also easier to start in winter) but will most likely get 18 - 24 mpg (I have a 2.4 auto, 22mpg is the best I've ever gotten, butothers have achieved better with standard trany)

As for the other stuff, space and parkability will blow away most any minivan, but put out a call in your area and you will easily get a deli owner to give you a test drive (thats what I did).


As for the towing, the transfer case does not have neutral, but the hubs unlock, and the transmission has neutral. As long as you are sure the hubs are unlocked (light is off) and you have a good tow bar, there should be no problems.

KSY

[jessef]

As for the towing, the transfer case does not have neutral, but the hubs unlock, and the transmission has neutral. As long as you are sure the hubs are unlocked (light is off) and you have a good tow bar, there should be no problems.

Do NOT tow the Delica with all four wheels on the ground !

'IF' you absolutely must, install manual front hubs so you can unlock the hubs (wheels freewheel) and disconnect (remove) the rear driveshaft (although you will need to plug the output on the transfer case otherwise it will leak out all the fluid).

[Itchintogo]

Hey Guys,

Thanks for the answers. I went and looked at a L300 and L400 today and discovered there is no neutral on the transfer case. Bummer!

Looks like the Delica is out of the running for being a toad. I assume the Pajero's are the same transfer case.

[jessef]

delica-spacegear-pajero similar t-case

[thedjjack]

I think the L300 has a neutral it is not on the shifter but it is there inside the case...

Easy solution is a drive-shaft disconnect any good drive shop can install for you...and manual hubs (which all 4x4 should have)...

Anyone know if the 5 speed is ok to tow in neutral? Should still lube fine with only the tailshaft turning?

[nxski]

Just put a dolly under each wheel and have some fun towing