Friday, Sep 05, 2003 at 23:40
Eric,
Do you own a Surf yourself ? If you don't, let me tell you ...
I own an 185 series Hilux Surf
1. The engine is 1KZ-TE w/Intercooler - the same as the 95 series Prado and the current 120 series Prado (except the 120 series has electronic throttle);
2. Auto Transmission is A340F, same as 95 series Prado;
3. Chassis and
suspension is same as the 95 series, with some minor differences (e.g. my Surf has adjustable NORMAL/HARD electronic
suspension built-in to the strut at the front; while the 95 series has a sub-tank at the rear and there are some extra support elements for it), basically all
the springs and shocks applicable to the 95 series, the 185 series will fit. The 185 series is about 100-150 Kg lighter than the 95 series Prado;
4. Parts - many Toyota dealers, I know of at least 2 in Melb (I've only rung 2 so far and they both do), have electronic catalogues that cover Japanese models, and they are happy to quote and sell you parts. Many mechanical parts are the same as 95 series Prado anyway. I recently had to replace the rear bar cover for my Surf, a dealer in Melb had it in stock ! If you don't want genuine new parts, you can buy after-market parts from SSS, genuine 2nd-hand from wreckers ...
5. Insurance - I paid $800 or something for comprehensive as a rating 1 driver with 60% no claim bonus, some Surf owners pay even less, and I'm going to
shop around to get a better deal when I renew;
6. Resale value - I don't know yet, do you ? But most Surf owners are very happy with their 4WD.
7. Other accessories : you can fit Safari Snorkels, TJM bull bars, ARB diff locks, LongRange fuel tank, etc
8. CD/Radio : I ditched the Japanese sat nav and put a stereo straight from another Toyota to replace it. Just plugged it in. When I push the button the aerial goes up automatically ...
My 185 Surf runs very
well and no trouble whatsoever.
I bet you probably don't own a Surf, do you ? So if you're not sure, leave it to others to comment.
Have a nice day.
CC
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