[cvau]

I’m looking at buying a Suzuki Jimny JA71 or JA11 import from Japan, the Kei cars that are smaller engines versions of their Australian market counterparts. I’m wondering if anybody knows how different they are to work on and from a parts perspective. Am I likely to be facing a nightmare of maintenance and rare/expensive parts? They look like a great option but I’m concerned that I should maybe be sticking with the common Australian version. Is there likely to be a problem, and to what extend of a problem? Also, does anybody have one of the imports, how is it, how does it compare to the Australian versions?

[Gwagensteve]

Basically the whole driveline is different m and unique. Engine shares no parts with an F or G engine, gearbox is unique. Transfer runs unique gearing but could be swapped over. Diffs are narrow track and use unique gearing. Most bearings, seals brakes etc will be generic.

Parts probably aren’t as hard for the engine as they used to be, but consider these engines are very hard worked and won’t be miles off of needing a rebuild. The turbos are very restrictive to meet Kei rules (at highway speeds they glow) so they’re running hot. They are pretty much close to full boost on the highway.

They’re fun but not super practical. I’ve had a cappuccino, built a sierra with a cappuccino (DOHC F6a) and ran a SOHC F6a in my sierra for a few years.