08-24-2010, 06:20 PM | #46 |
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Fredericton, NB, Canada
Posts: 1,744
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I don't think so. The rarity of the truck (and engine) in these parts has me a bit scared. I tried out another mini today, a daihatsu hijet with a regular cab and dump box. The truck only has 33000 Km's and is quite pristine. BTW, not me in the photo.
It had just enough more room than the Mitsu I tested to make it driveable. I wouldn't want to spend 2 hours behind the wheel mind you, but for to/from work and trips to the lumber yard it will do just fine. The Daihatsu's are very common in the mini truck world so parts are just a web browser away. The dump is pure awesome. It even has the gate that automatically flips open when the dump is actuated. Topsoil spreading here I come! Dump video:
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08-24-2010, 07:05 PM | #47 |
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Terrell and Grapevine Tx.
Posts: 1,585
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So the dump is remote control? Pretty slick.
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08-24-2010, 07:06 PM | #48 |
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: austin, tx
Posts: 1,452
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those look good if you have some land to do work on.. but i would not take it on the highway...
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08-24-2010, 07:35 PM | #49 |
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Southeastern Washington desert
Posts: 14,761
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Boy that looks like something fun and useable. Kinda like half way between a Gator or a Mule and a small pickup like a Ranger.
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08-24-2010, 08:28 PM | #50 |
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: austin, tx
Posts: 1,452
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would be awsomer if it had a "track" upgrade done to it.. so instead of wheels it had tracks.. then if i had some land and wanted something a big 4x4 utility atv couldnt hual id buy one
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08-24-2010, 08:58 PM | #51 |
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Fredericton, NB, Canada
Posts: 1,744
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I want a affordable, reliable 4x4 truck I can carry small loads of wood/dirt/etc... with and get 30MPG+. In North America they don't build a truck that meets those criteria. Why don't they make/sell these here? You'd think in an age of 'environmental awareness' they'd be cranking out small, fuel efficient trucks by the boatload. I had an F150 once upon a time. Nice truck but way overkill for 90% of my usage.
The dump is just a sweet, sweet bonus. It's actuated by a button on the dash - right side of the steering column. I don't intend to drive on the highway although this truck has a 5 speed trans so highway speeds are doable - top speed ~125kph. My route from the new house to work is a 80kph zone. I test drove it tonight and was surprised by the performance. I believe this model is fuel injected. I liked it much better than the Mitsubishi available from the same dealer.
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08-28-2011, 04:34 PM | #52 |
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Fredericton, NB, Canada
Posts: 1,744
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I'm giving up on the mini. I've tried out several and to-date, as much as it pains me to say it, none are comfortable enought for someone of my height to drive for more than 10 minutes at a time. On top of that I'd be paying 6K minimun for a truck at least 15 years old. Average price around here is ~$7500.
I know once the novelty wore off I'd be finding excuses for not driving it which defeats the purpose. Plan B. 2008+ Ranger 2WD 4 cylinder regular cab. They're only slightly more money than a mini and much easier to maintain (and waaay more comfortable to drive).
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08-28-2011, 05:01 PM | #53 |
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Southeastern Washington desert
Posts: 14,761
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You'll like the Ranger. Good truck. Lord knows more than a few of us on the board own them.
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08-28-2011, 05:05 PM | #54 |
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: Alberta, Canada
Posts: 3,274
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And an added bonus... The steering wheel will be on the right (I mean left) side!
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08-30-2011, 02:23 PM | #55 |
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Sardis, BC, Canada
Posts: 25,977
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Thanks for confirming my theories about those trucks. If I choose a truck, I'll likely go for a Ranger as well.
Interesting that this topic has been on your mind for a year.
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Weldangrind "I figure I'm well-prepared for coping with a bike that comes from the factory with unresolved issues and that rewards the self-reliant owner." - Buccaneer |
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08-30-2011, 06:03 PM | #56 |
Join Date: May 2007
Location: Altamont, Kansas
Posts: 15,103
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Can't go wrong with a ranger.
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08-31-2011, 07:54 AM | #57 |
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 2,436
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There's chinese equivent in NA :o
Chang'an http://www.tigertruck.com/4x4/index.html DFM mini http://www.americasminitruckcenter.com/new-mini-trucks/ |
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08-31-2011, 12:08 PM | #58 | |
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Fredericton, NB, Canada
Posts: 1,744
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Quote:
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09-28-2011, 01:06 PM | #59 |
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Fredericton, NB, Canada
Posts: 1,744
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I pulled the trigger on a 2008 Ranger 2WD with AM _and_ FM. 5-Speed manual. No air. Vinyl seats. Truck's don't get any more basic than this.
Taken last night after a trip to the wood pile
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09-28-2011, 01:18 PM | #60 |
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Southeastern Washington desert
Posts: 14,761
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Another Ranger joins the Chinarider's ranks!
Fine looking rig. 4 cylinder? Ford is having a big sale on the remaining 2011 Rangers. This is the last of the line which started in 1983! 25% off! I wonder about trading my 1992 in...
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