Hello, Been doing some reading on the forum to prepare myself for future Mini Truck ownership. Been looking for a bit and researching to find a good fit for my needs. Need a workhorse for plowing, general use around the property and for local errands. My ATV has about 1 or 2 winters left in it. The forum is a great resource so far, hoping to be able to add to it sooner than later. Going to go look at a clean 1986 this weekend but having a little trepidation as aftermarket supplies are a bit thin. Can't seem to find a lift kit for an older truck like this, or a receiver front bumper (will probably build something anyway) emailed a few companies to see about fitment but waiting.... Even for upgraded coil springs there seems to be a 1989 cut off? I'm a little bummed it doesn't have the 660 engine but I'm not super concerned with zipping around. I have a tractor for pushing snow banks back so I won't need to beat this thing too hard. It appears to be in good mechanical condition, already registered in my state, and has low miles and no rust. I figure that's better than buying a complete mystery truck right off the boat and have to start right off by fixing all kinds of random stuff. I guess something has to give and if it's a little hp, that's cool.
Welcome aboard. As to the springs, on the Hijet the stock springs can be replaced with 2.5-inch ID springs for coil over shocks, readily available from Jegs, and Summit, and probably a host of other sites. I’m running a set of variable rate springs, with rates of 175 to 450-pounds/inch.
Opted to pass on the 89. I think it makes more sense for me to find something a little newer, with a factory dump body and locking axle. I've done enough major car mods and winter is here, need something I can put to work right away. Stopped and looked at a 6'-8" Myers hydraulic plow today. Looks like with the way the blade is designed I could cut it down to 72" and I like the normal style plow hook up versus a receiver style. For some reason, the receiver style just looks like it would bend over time. I'd probably relocate the pump somewhere behind the engine and just extend the hoses and add quick disconnects to get some weight off the front. Have also been looking at the more basic UTV plows also. Could be fine with that to start this season. Going to check in with the local Fisher dealer about the 76" UTV plow
