Hello! I'm looking to import a manual transmission Sambar truck. I'm trying to decide between the KS models (Pre '99) and TT ('99+). My primary consideration is reliability and parts availability. My assumptions is that the TTs have better part availability, being newer. I know there are some KS parts that have been discontinued (such as front engine mount, MT synchros). What are the other most critical KS parts that are discontinued? Is my assumption that there are less discontinued TT parts correct? EFI in the TT is also a draw for me from a maintenance standpoint (not interested in supercharged KS, due to increased complexity) . I understand the appeal of a carburetor in that they are simple and proven. I live in Phoenix so cold weather is not really a concern for the carburetor. But, EFI definitely seems more hands-off. Is my assessment here correct? Any other factors I should consider in my decision regarding KS vs TT regarding reliability/serviceability? I understand there are much fewer TTs around, but grateful for any input on the matter. Also, I should not that I will be doing pretty much all work on the truck myself. I'm not super experienced with car maintenance, but mechanically-inclined and ready to learn.
I maintain the parts spreadsheet for the 5th and 6th gen Sambars, It outlines what is and what is not available anymore for both platforms. Mechanically, they are very similar, and there are a lot of 5th gen parts that have been replaced with 6th gen parts, which is why they are still available at all at this point. I suggest looking it over, it is in the Sambar References section at this top of this group. While 6th gen is not super common here yet, there were way more of them produced than 5th gen. As such, there are significantly more used parts available in Japan. If I were jumping into a Sambar at this point in time, I would go 6th gen all of the way. I personally am planning on buying a 6th gen Van in a couple of years to supplement my 92 supercharged truck.
I have looked at your spreadsheet! Thanks for your work on that - I should have spent some more time with it to answer my own question. Sounds like 6th gen is probably the way to go for me.
