Mini Truck Frequently Asked Questions

How much to mini trucks weigh?

Japanese mini trucks weight approximately 1550lbs., depending on the extras fitted on the mini truck (e.g. tow bar)

How much weight can a mini truck carry?

Mini trucks are rated from the factory for a 750lb payload. Due to ATV tire sizes we recommend a maximum of 550 lbs payload per mini truck.

What is the best model of mini truck?

This is a commonly asked question and in my view no one model of mini truck is better than the other (it's a bit like the Chevy vs. Ford thing). A lot of it depends on the terrain / environment the mini truck is to be used in. On very hilly, steep country a centrally mounted engine has a better center of gravity, and perhaps a mini truck model with differential lock is more suited. On flat to light rolling country any mini truck model will perform well. The Subaru and Mitsubishi mini truck tend to have the larger cab that is better for the taller or bulkier person. We can help you determine what model would be best suited for your needs.

How stable are mini trucks?

Due to the lower center of gravity (and centrally mounted engine in most models except Subaru), mini trucks are very stable, especially when compared to a quad. Mini trucks are very stable:

• Going up hill - A mini truck is highly unlikely to tip over backwards. Mini trucks are even safer, especially if there is a need to stop during ascent, with excellent 4-wheel braking.
• Going down hill - A mini truck is especially stable when towing, with excellent 4 wheel braking. The mini trucks' wheelbase makes them safer down hill and less likely to jack-knife.
• Side-ways - wide, low wheelbase and low center of gravity make them very stable on the side of hills. Also any shift in load (fluid weight or posts etc moving) should not have an adverse effect.

What size engine does a mini truck have?

Until 1991 all Japanese mini truck models had a 550cc engine. There was a Japanese Gov't law change in 1991 which allowed mini trucks to have an engine up to 660cc. Hence all Japanese mini truck models from 1991 onwards are 660cc. All mini truck models have a 3-cyl in-line gasoline engine except Subaru, which has an in-line 4-cyl engine.

Are mini trucks available in diesel?

No. All mini truck makers only produce gasoline engine models.

Do all mini trucks come with a heater?

Yes. All mini truck models have a standard heater and also an am radio (Japanese model). A standard NZ am/fm radio can be fitted.

Is air conditioning available in mini trucks?

Air conditioning is fitted to some models of mini trucks but most trucks are not air-conditioned.

What is the availability of mini trucks' parts supply?

A lot of new mini truck parts (oil filters, brake pads, clutches, water pumps) are now available. We partner with a supplier who carries a comprehensive range of used mini truck parts. We keep an inventory of new mini truck parts on hand (oil filters, brake pads, clutches, water pumps, etc.).

What is the bed size of a mini truck?

The rear tray of a mini truck measures 6.2' long x 4.25' wide. This means a 6ft post will fit in with 4" to spare.

What are Japanese mini trucks used for in Japan?

Japan has thousands of 2WD mini truck models that used as delivery vehicles. The Japanese government has a special dispensation for these vehicles due to their light weight and low fuel consumption / emissions, so the annual registration costs for mini trucks are much cheaper than a normal vehicle. In northern Japan in winter there is a lot of snow and ice hence 4WD is a necessity. In general all these vehicles have been used at some time on the road in Japan.

How soon can I get a mini truck?

We keep several trucks in stock and our importer has many mini trucks in the States so we can get most within a couple of days.