Headlight replacement

[Elbrad]

So, today I'm calling around, looking for E-coded headlights. Nobody's got any Depo's in stock for 3-4 weeks, so I had to settle for a used pair at Malahat Auto Parts.

Firstly, my experience at Malahat was less than stellar. I called up, spoke to the JDM specialist there. He found a set of Souwest and let me know that they were $125. Each. EACH! In other words, he wants $250 for a used set of 2nd rate headlights. Graham at CCAutos charges $277 for a new set of Depos...and that's with bulbs!

Anyway...I need these lights. I hate to think that I'll be pulled over for having the wrong lights. This is going to be my daily driver. I talk him down to $200 for the pair and head down there from Nanaimo. My ass is still a little sore from the rigorous round of backdoor lovin' he gave me. He could've at least used lube.

So...now I have 'em here...and I realize that although I want to learn how to install these myself, I can't find a wiring diagram. I've read a few horror stories on the forum. I don't have a soldering gun.

I do, however, excel at buying beer, so I'm offering to help you drink a few coldies in exchange for your assistance (and your soldering gun) here in Nanaimo. I might even throw in a dozen farm-fresh eggs if you don't solder my fingers together, or prevent me from doing the same.

[nxski]

What do you need a soldering gun for? When I took my quarter panels off (easy to do but some of the screws are a bit stiff) and pulled out my headlights everything was connected with plugs. Is there some splicing that needs to be done for this particular install? Are you trying to change your headlights to running lights etc?

[Elbrad]

I was under the impression that switching from JDM lights to E-code lights required rewiring. Also, the used lights that I got are sans le connectors, just wires.

[Rising Sun Auto Import]

I was under the impression that switching from JDM lights to E-code lights required rewiring. Also, the used lights that I got are sans le connectors, just wires.

I would recommend to get your delica to CC autos for safety wise and guaranteed job as you are in Nanaimo.

Steven

[Elbrad]

I was under the impression that switching from JDM lights to E-code lights required rewiring. Also, the used lights that I got are sans le connectors, just wires.

I would recommend to get your delica to CC autos for safety wise and guaranteed job as you are in Nanaimo.

Steven

I think you're right mate. Before I sink too much more into her, I should get them to have a peek at it. Something tells me there was no compliance done on this unit, and if there was, it was taken off shortly after DOT approval.

[nxski]

Ah, I was a little confused as to whether you were switching between 2 different types of NA headlights or if you were sold a vehicle with Japanese headlights.

[Elbrad]

Nope...it seems that the only compliance that was done was the set of 4 Maxtours. Other than that, there are no side markers, no side blinker and the original Japanese headlights.

I've emailed the original owner, hoping to find out who the importer was so I can speak with them.

[Rising Sun Auto Import]

I would buy E-coded headlights for L300 anytime whenever they show in the market.
As far as I know, to buy them are getting harder in Canada.
If anyone wants to sell, plz PM.

Steven

[Elbrad]

I'm new here, and I don't want to start by making too many waves, but something smells a little fishy with this van.

I contacted the previous owner (we'll call him Bob), and he said he bought the vehicle through Japanoid, who were the original importers. The van has a VIN tag on the inside of the drivers door, but no compliance work has been done. No markers, no new headlights, and most importantly, no certificate of inspection.

Doesn't the vehicle need these things in order to be registered?

[thedjjack]

If you have ICBC papers and there is no inspection notice then you can just go to any autoplan agent and register the Delica.

However, your vehicle must be legal for the road. It is your responsibility to insure the Delica is legal. I would add e-code lights and side markers and 3rd brake light depending on year.

[Elbrad]

Firstly, apologies to Shogo and the Japanoid crew. One of their mechanics did a private sale with the owner I was in contact with. He merely sold a vehicle that had a shady compliance done on it, Japanoid or the mechanic didn't do the compliance work themselves.

In truth, nobody did the compliance work. In 2010 Mersedes Auto (yes...I spelled it right) was investigated and shut down because of false and fraudulent inspections and compliance reports. Same company that inspected Boba. R&S Trading Inc, another company that's since gone, was the original importer.

I have an appointment at CC Autos on Wednesday. Boba will be inspected and complianced, and ready for the road.

I'm just angry and frustrated. I spent months looking for the right van at the right price and thought I'd found it. Unfortunately I didn't know what to look for compliance-wise until it was too late.