Hey all, I forgot to say that I’ve given up the old blue RAV4 for something else.

The story goes….

When I left the RAV4 at autobacs everything seemed in order. They even gave me a loaner car so I didn’t have to catch the bus. However, while up enjoying Sapporo I was told that the mechanic had found a disturbing problem. The right front wheel, in his opinion, needed replacing along with the struts, supports, and maybe even the short shafts… The whole new repair on top the other things would cost me an additional $1,300.

This for a car I wanted to be ‘cheap’ wouldn’t do so I pulled the plug on the whole deal and opted to find another car when I returned.

When I returned I got to see the old blue RAV4 and sure enough… it was broke probably more broke then I left it?? I don’t know… it looked bad.

So I had to find a new car. My options at the time were small for my estimated budget. It ended up between a Regular Suzuki Swift type car, An old Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, or a newer Suzuki Jimny JB23. Truth be told, I wanted the lancer Evo– it was cool. But cooler, smarter heads prevailed and I took the Jimny instead.

It turns out to be a pretty slick car too. There’s an enthusiast magazine here for the Jimnys and mine seems to be right up there with the 4×4 dream vehicle. Some of the coolest features on it is this small turbo charged 660 CC Engine. It’s small, but it sounds like turbo charged beast.

The suspension and frame on it is rock solid… The thing could climb up a mountain and do just fine. It’s a 5 speed stick with a lo & hi vacuum powered 4×4.. the inside and outside look virtually brand new (for a 2001 car).

The one thing about it I don’t exactly know 100% yet is whether it’s really a JB23W (Wide) or a JB23 Narrow. According to 1 book I read it could be a narrow version (just looking at the body style), however I looked at the VIN number and model number and it says it’s indeed a JB23W… Now all that means is ‘more room’ and a wider stance. Also most 4×4 guys with Suzuki Jimny JB23’s roll with the Wide Version… Apparently in those circles it’s important to indicate that “W” in magazine spec articles I’ve been reading.

Tomorrow, I gotta go back to the dealer to sign some papers, at that time I’ll go look at the Jimny again to double check. (maybe even bring a camera & measuring tape).

I do think it”d be cool to get into something like off-roading or something cool like that while living here in Japan. I suppose since I bought the perfect car for it– why not get into learning a new risky, money pit, sport? I already got a Jimny Autoparts Pro Shop spotted in Hirosaki– and I noticed I’m getting some holidays off in a few weeks.

hmmm– I’m thinking roadtrip.. heh heh. Dang it… looks like, yet again, I just might have another car project!

J out

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