FAQ's

FAQ’s

What is a Mini-Truck?       

Japanese Mini-Trucks are small utility trucks used in Japan.  They are much like a regular pickup truck, just much smaller.  Most have  two seats, windows, doors, heat and some even have air conditioning.

Mini-Trucks generally have a 3 cylinder motor.  2WD and 4WD models are available and can be customized with dump beds, lifts, and other useful options such as Turbo and Superchargers.

Mini-trucks are easy to drive, have plenty of power and will keep you warm (or cool) and dry while other ATVs and Four-Wheelers can't.  Mini trucks weigh approximately 1500 pounds, are approximately 10’6” long and 52” wide. Mini trucks have plenty of cargo room with a bed length of 76 inches and cargo capacity of 800 pounds. Bed sides and tailgates drop down for easy access or can be removed to make a flat bed.

They are wonderful for the farm, hunting, camping, or the lake.  Many folks also use them in their businesses:  college campus, golf courses, large production plants, strip mines, industrial parks, etc.   Mini-Trucks are a fun way to get the job done. With fuel at all-time highs, these little trucks get 40-55 mpg.

In most states, Mini- trucks do not meet U.S. safety standards for on-road registration. Although new laws have been and are being passed, dictating Mini-trucks as “street legal” in several states, For the most part, these trucks are for OFF ROAD USE ONLY. 

Why a Mini-Truck?   

With a Mini-Truck, you can have all of the capabilities of a 4-wheeler with the comfort of air conditioning, larger payload, windows and ALL FOR LESS!  Japanese Mini-Trucks have many great uses whether it's on the farm, at the lake or out hunting and fishing. Mini-trucks are available with numerous options, you can outfit your Mini-Truck with lift kits, custom paint, upholstry & more.

These trucks are excellent utility vehicles for all OFFROAD duties and do the work of a full size pick-up but costs much less! What's more, these  little trucks offer cab comfort; they will haul around an 800 pound load; they offer fuel economy (around 40-55 mpg) and they are affordable.

What accessories are available for my Japanese Mini Truck? 

Lots of accessories are available.  Lift kits and body lifts are popular among owners. They increase the ground clearance and allow you to travel places you could not normally go.  If you are an off-road enthusiast, you should have your truck lifted.

Sporty wheels and tires are available.  These will customize the appearance of your truck.  Aluminum bed caps also add to the trucks appearance.

Many owners customize with their own paint jobs or some will have them professionally wrapped with a vinyl wrap similar to what is used on professional race cars or promotional vehicles.

To increase flexibility, you can add winches, dump bed systems, snow plows and tracks.

Where can I buy parts for my Japanese Mini Truck.           

Southern Express3 has a full range of parts for your Suzuki, Daihatsu, and Mitsubishi Japanese Mini Truck.  We also rebuild engines and CV axles.  We design and build our own lift kits and bumpers. Specialty parts are ordered from Japan on a weekly basis.  We can meet most any need you have for parts.  Free technical support is available with your parts purchase.

What regular maintenance is needed for my Japanese Mini Truck? 

Just like any vehicle, you need to change your oil and air filter on a regular basis.  I would also recommend you change your timing belt every 18 months. 

How do people use their Japanese mini truck? 

These trucks are used for FUN and WORK.  They are very popular among hunters and farmers. They are great for chores around the house.  Construction sites, factories, and universities are common places you may see these mini trucks.  The possibilities are endless!  They are just fun to ride and get great gas mileage.