Looking for some input since I have zero experience with them. I have a deposit on a '22 Hijet Jumbo cab manual, but now I am going back and forth. The initial purpose would be to use it on a jobsite for moving material back and forth. The field guys would be using it. After the job, I could see it being retired to my property after the job is done. That last part has me looking for more creature comforts. I am having a hard time finding info on new models ('22). From what I can tell, Subaru and Daihatsu are both the same, made by Toyota. Those are the ones I am leaning towards. Is a regular cab large enough for someone 6-1 and 230 lbs? I see some Jumbo cabs with the Daihatu. The seats look a lot nicer on the Jumbo Cabs and having a little more interior space is always nice. This was my first choice originally. Now I am debating if I need the Jumbo instead of a regular, or regular with dump. You lose 8" of bed space, but the notch from the jumbo cab will still allow us to move conduit the same way as the regular cab. I have read that lifts are not good for them. Some of the local resellers put a 2" lift and larger tires on them. Am I looking at trouble with those? or should they be fine for low speed vehicles? Am I an idiot for spending $21-24K for a new truck that I can't even drive on the road? I am reluctant to buy a used one since it will be used for work and I can't really afford to have a broken machine at the jobsite. Is there anything else I should know about these trucks? Like any new car, it's easy to get caught up with options (power windows, push start, etc) and really drive the price up.
Part of me wishes mine had no lift or bigger tires, but it came that way. Just extra wear and tear. I would never put a lift on one of my service vans or trucks for the same reason. A toy sure but not something I use to make money. However if you need the additional clearance it makes sense.
It sounds like you're looking for some input on purchasing a mini truck for use on a jobsite. Based on your needs, a regular cab may be sufficient for someone of your size, but a Jumbo cab with more interior space and nicer seats may provide more comfort for longer-term use on your property. As for the lift, while it may be tempting to add a 2" lift and larger tires, it's important to keep in mind that lifts can put extra stress on the vehicle's suspension and may void the manufacturer's warranty. It's best to check with the manufacturer or a reputable mechanic before making any modifications. As for the price, it's understandable to be hesitant about spending $21-24K on a new truck that can't be driven on the road, but purchasing a new vehicle can provide peace of mind and may be more reliable than buying a used one for work purposes. It's always a good idea to research the brand and model before making a purchase and to consider factors like maintenance costs and resale value. Overall, it's important to prioritize your specific needs and budget when choosing a mini truck. Don't get too caught up in options and features that may not be necessary for your work purposes, and be sure to do thorough research and consult with experts before making any modifications to the vehicle. Good luck with your purchase!
> I am reluctant to buy a used one since it will be used for work and I can't really afford to have a broken machine at the jobsite. It has been 20+ years, but, after selling and working on new cars and trucks at dealership, I can say buying a new piece of equipment is no guarantee it will not break down. For $22,000 you could buy two really nice used KEI trucks with dump bodies and still have $6,000+ to spare. No idea on what kind of site you are using it on, but, from my point of view I would be looking at a few things: #1 and most important - does the seller have a service department where the mechanics actually drive KEI trucks or is the lot filled with 4-6 ton diesel trucks? I imagine with the newer EFI models the level of expertise to fix one is much higher then a 25 year old carb. one. #2 automatic so you do not end up having people nuking the clutches. #3 A/C #4 What is behind the front bumper that will eventually be hit and what will it destroy? Some models have the A/C condenser up under the bumper and some have it behind the drive under the seat. #5 what is the best way to get AG or mud tires on the vehicle. #6 what kind of locker in the front (4x4 actuator) #7 get a real select able locker for the rear.
I would get a dump, or scissors lift/dump again in a minute, particularly fr a site truck. I think working on the engine is lots easier than down through the hatch. And just the added utility of the scissors/dump on a site is pretty handy. I would avoid a suspension lift unless you need the ground clearance.
