Anyone imported an TLC from Japan?
 

It's tempting to browse the numerous websites of japanese companies that specialise in exporting used japanese cars. They do have a reasonable selection of HJ60's and HDJ81's available for what seems like the price of a couple pints and a packet of crisps. Not including the cost of shipping, duty, vat, re-reg, etc.

BUT, and its a big but, since they are usually around 15 years old already and you only have a few photos to go by you could be throwing away a few grand on a glorified, oversized, leaky paper weight.

So, what I would like to know is, has anyone imported their own TLC from Japan to convert into an Overland Monster?

I've thought about it and know a mate who brought in a lovely 80 and a 76. You get 'all the fruit' on Jap imports but at the cheaper end of the scale (under 3-4k landed) we decided that by the time you add it all up it's not a saving over what you can buy easily in the UK for the same price and less hassle/risk. This is especially true when it comes to Brit 80s which are the cheapest in Europe by far.

If I was going through the hassle of importing from Japan I would get something we dont have here like a 76/77 (see p.78). But dont forget you may well get stiffed on the insurance (as I've just found out...)

Ch

insurance
 

Hi Chaps,

When I brought in my Land Cruiser 77, the whole process was pretty painless and the car was great (if a little idiosynchratic and aimed at the Japanese market - obvously). It had some nice standard features you'd never get here like and engine driven winch and snowchains (!) in a special compartment in the boot. The insurance company insisted I fit a Thatcham Cat2 immobiliser before they'd cover it for theft. After that, the insurance was about 10-15% more than I'd have paid for, say a UK-spec 80.

Remember that cars spend all their time in traffic jams if used in urban Japan - so you heard of ones with even modest mileage having a knackered auto-box or clutch (as applicable). Having said that, the grading system at the auctions there is quite detailed and reliable, so you know what you are getting usually. Buying off a reseller here is more risky I think as they tend to buy low-grade cars for pennies and tart them up.

You can save money with an import I think (or certainly get something interesting and not-rusty underneath), but it isn't all beer and skittles, or I guess everyone would do it. Also, you usually don't get diff locks (not needed in Tokyo car parks, I hear) - which may or may not be a factor.

Cheers,

Andy