that silly man ;) who bought a yugo, should really look for that Saturday night Live tv ad for the "Claygo" mid 80s when the yugo came out, it even came with "Form fitting seats!"
I've had a lifetime of running decrepit old cars, and have adopted a philosophical approach to expenses: look on oil, tyres, brakes as just part of the running costs which you will have with any car - if you keep the car you are unlikely to be spending money on them again for a good few years. Structural repairs and major replacements are capital costs which need to be considered against the value of the car, and even then you have to balance that against the unknowns of a replacement car. If the car is basically enjoyable and meets your needs, stick with it!
@Frazzle Face Think he means in the sense that the brakes and tyres will last for a good few years and wont cost anything, compared to buying another car where that is likely not the case.
I am at that point with a Scenic at the moment - still got 5 months MOT on it - needs various front suspension knocks sorting out and it has an ABS sensor out. I had the rears done which means new rear discs and hubs ( for that is where the sensor lives ) and new pads - £300. It goes runs and stops fine - its a sensor only but can't be arsed with getting the front one done so am putting off any more expenditure during periods of limited travel and keeping my eyes peeled for something that takes my fancy then I may change and the Scenic will then be scrapped. It seems daft even to me when £500 tops would sort it out but you know when you just fall out of love with something?
Mr Hubnut, you should keep it. Good Delica's seem to go for good money. They're either £400 for a scrapper or £4,000+ for a reasonable one and nothing in between. Definitely worth keeping yours going.
Ian, this is the perfect choice for a daily driver. Make it the number one priority in your fleet and get it MoTd and 100% sorted. Elly's now got an MoT so you can crack on with the Delica.
Thought the same, just as I was thinking get shot of it, cut your losses. Also thought €100 for the City Rover was far too cheap, especially for a runner
Sometimes it's just best to not look at the monetary value, but look instead at its' practical value, even if it does have a bit of a drinking problem... :D
Its value may increase as the vehicle ages. VW microbuses were dirt cheap used years ago and it's astounding to see how much they increased in recent years. You never know.
Gerard Bos von Hohenfels, only if the previous owners have given it TLC, maintenance is not like a Catholic confession, one good oil change won’t undo years of neglect; then there’s the salt damage underneath it, a shiny turd is still a turd.
For someone who once used a Swan Vesta matchbox tray and gaffer tape as a fuse-box cover on an Austin 1300, I could NEVER fault anyone elses attempts at bodgery!
We all know your not a proper mechanic, but like most of us that watch this your doing what you can as best you can because atleast you know how it was done. Keep up the great work 👍
I would stick with it, you've invested most of the money, you know its faults, and with a bit more work you'll have a really useful vehicle. And it's fun watching you work on it. All the best.
I've always tinkered with my own cars - it gives me an understanding of how they work and what the different bits look like so when I take them to professionals I can speak with some knowledge, understand their diagnoses and reduce the possibility of being ripped off. I'm not a brilliant mechanic but I have a logical mind and spend time looking and planning before diving in.
You can second-guess yourself all day! Shall I sell it, should I keep it, if I sell it, will I regret it, if I keep it, will I regret it. It's one of those old conundrums that'll keep you awake at night. While you've got it, enjoy it! And every good mechanic was once a bad one, so don't beat yourself up over that either! :-)
I agree with others on here Ian, stick with it. It'll be worth it. We follow you because we know you are not a mechanic, but neither are a lot of us. We a tinkerer's! What your channel does is show others, that a lot of jobs you can tackle yourself. Keep up the good work 👍
i'm a mechanic , 20 plus years in and i think you're doing a wonderful job working on your fleet , as you say , we learn by doing and all the people who "expertly comment " need to remember we all started from somewhere . i hope the delica runs free for many years to come , a truly capable vehicle :)
One of the best MPV’s from that period was the Citroen/Peugeot 806. Buy them for £500 and get 40mpg off the HDI version. Nobody wants them but they are just brilliant. Even seen one on eBay for 99p which didn’t sell
I had a Mitsubishi Shogun 3000 V6, similar trim to your Delica and I loved it. Towed a caravan, went green laneing, hauled an extended family, with extra seats in the back. Then it started to show it's age. Replaced a rust holed, sump pan. Sunshine roof edges rusted and jammed, electric aerial seized and wouldn't come out to replace it, rust holes appeared in the floor pan behind the pedals. The final straw was the cylinder head gasket went on one bank. I could have replaced it, but a lot of work and expense and would still have a rusty vehicle at the end of it. Sold it as scrap. It even made it's own way onto the transporter, with no water in it. Broke my heart, but I feel your dilemma.
On a side note: do continue to be you Ian. It's these personal ramblings, struggling with choices on money, space and time, which almost every car enthusiast has to make, that I love this channel to bits.
I've recently bought her Korean sister, the Hyundai H1, and I'm in love with it. It's true that it's painfully slow (and thirsty), but it's one of the most versatile vans I've ever seen and the space inside is huge.
To begin with the car had been sitting. It needs discs and pads and possibly new calipers all round. Your going to get that with nearly any car thats sat. But I think it's worth keeping and doing up. Good luck! :)
Stick with it, it's your work horse and a great family vehicle, so versatile. Sometimes we make these possibly bad choices, but once all the work is done and you have spent the money you will have a top notch vehicle that will be your fall back for all the other projects. The reason we watch you with your amateur mechanics is because most hubnutters are just like you, learning as we go along. Bugger anyone who leaves nasty comments, remember the bible quote, "He who casts the first stone", some of these people are so far up their own arses they forget that some of us just have to get on with it with the budget and ability we have. Your sound Ian.... You're just like us.
Thing is all of this generates content for your channel which earns you money. It's all investment in your business - which ultimately is this channel. Which we really enjoy - your depth of knowledge on these older cars is immense, perhaps your engineering skill isn't quite at the same level :-D , but we watch it because you're an ordinary bloke doing some quite extraordinary things to keep these older cars going. Keep it up!
Stick with it Ian, you’ve made good progress so far and Delica is a practical vehicle. You are thinking of moving house, it’s useful for the move and the 4x4 would be useful if you move away from the warm climate of New Quay and come back to the hills and snow. Don’t be too hard on yourself re your mechanic skills, many of us are self taught and we ain’t doing too bad. I admire the way you tackle most things...
I had found with my Delica 2.8 the turbo pressure relief valve/diaphragm was opening to early. I was not coming close the the boost I should have been, and this was with a new turbo installed. I had boost gauge installed and then fitted a boost control valve. With it now making full boost and also I did the fuel pump pintal adjustment it is much better when setting off and at full throttle. These old girls need abit of loving and thinking outside the box.
I think your plan is sound. As you note it's the most useful vehicle you own or are likely to. If your woes should extend to the steering rack there must be online groups for these cars who may have solutions. It may be that the rack is shared with a more common model. On ears, I've had mine blasted out a few times and the sudden return of high frequency response is indeed amazing! Cheers.
Take heart Ian, I've been fiddling about with cars, old and not so old, since the early 70's and I've still not got the faintest idea what I'm doing! We just bumble along don't we. All the best
When the steering rack on my old 307 started leaking my garage sent it to a place in Neath to be refurbished. It was done same day. They also repair and refurbish propshafts. B.A.R. Propshafts in Neath.
3 things on a auto, interior, bodywork and mechanics, 2 out of 3 are ok, 3 is hard work and little profit. A tip to clean the injectors put the cleaner in the fuel filter housing then pump up and go for drive, new oil and filters will also help with miles per gallon. Removing the back seats will help no end, thanks for the vid.
Wafty laziness and torque is precisely why I bought my Holden Calais - like the VY SS you drove, but with more toys, in some cases a lot more toys. It’s probably the best decision I’ve ever made, and it’s still my first car. I’ve spent a few thousand on stuff here and there, but I’ve also done most of the work myself because they’re so easy to work on, and there’s also the small fact that I’ve put 160,000 on it since I bought it 5 years ago. If you want a great car to do long highway trips in, it’s hard to go past it.
Buys bargains, fixes enormously tricky mechanical conundrums,plays the ukulele,strides whole continents and does hairdos...is there no limit to this man's talents?
Ian ,i cured my power steering leak with leak stop,that was a year ago, on my Toyota, once the brakes were done she was ok and just the usual mot things. My toyota which was very similar to your Delica was about 25 MPG ,so that's good if you get 27 ,i think the vehicles a good all rounder ,and you spent £ 500 on that Yugo which you could have spent on the Delica so its swings and roundabouts.... i prefer the more unusual cars you have like foxanne and tuc ,but equally if you brought a Marina i would love it. Take care..👍👍👍👍👍
2CV noise. Jay Leno uses something called Dynamat in his restorations which deadens sound and insulates heat from the engine or exhaust. Have you tried it?
There are neoprene foam tiles with a selfadhesive backing available which make exceptional soundproofing, branded versions are expensive, your 2CV can be quiet.
I get 29mpg around town with my 1999 astra 2.0 16v sri. About 38mpg on the motorway. @ 8:53 I thought you said you were continuing to drive home with my new wonderful earing lol. I think i will have my ears sorted out haha.
Apart from the obvious lack of maintenance (wipers, brakes and tyres) it really isn't that bad. If you buy cars cheaply, you end up doing those jobs. I'd keep it and fix it. It may turn out to be a keeper since it is so practical.
I think the most important thing to maintaining a vehicle well is how much you love the vehicle. I've just got rid of a Smart 451 convertible which the wife loved and I hated and I hardly touched it. Just bought a Freelander 2 and I'm buying tools, service kits, part and cleaning products like they are going out of fashion. Love Land Rovers, hate Smarts, simples!
I can sum up why you like it: It's friendly. I can tell it's a friendly car and I've not even driven it, all the best cars I've ever had have been like that 👍
Leaky power steering is a fairly standard feature on them. If you have a card for a local cash&carry, or keep your eye open at supermarkets for deals, put veg oil in the tank, but order a couple of spare fuel filters first and carry them with you. They are not bad on the lanes, but the extra height can be a problem with trees, more so even the slightest side-slope feels terrifying!
Maybe just look at it as a tool for the job? Let's be honest, we've all done this at some point. As for your mechanicking skills, you are one of the most honest of the TH-camrs in that respect. And more power to you for that. Thanks for being you Ian, it's exactly that that makes your channel one of the best.
Love the Delica but you now have to do what’s best for you, your new family and your channel. I have to be honest I haven’t disliked any of your videos. Most TH-camrs I watch are very critical of their content but that always says to me that you love what you do. Which in turn means it will always be a pleasure to watch 👍🏻. Keep on Hubnutting and looking forward to future content. 😁😁
what you did during this video we have all done at one point ....convince ourselves to keep something that you know ...you really know will be a money pit.....good on ya ! i'm not alone
seeing what it needs for its MOT is key, once that first MOT is done with a "new to you" car, the rest go quite well because you know you stand a good chance of keeping it maintained, if the delica does what it needs to do for you, then its worth keeping, with less binding on the brakes I think you are already seeing the MPG get better, refine the driving like you say and I am sure it will be fine. But heres another thought, woudl the Matiz be safer, easier to maintain, cheaper to run than the others? will the family fit in it?
Glad your learning not to thrash the bollocks off them all the time. I like it when you do mechanic type things in videos , you inspired me to have a go. Been going my own disks and pads, what I saved in labour I spent on getting fancy brembo grooved disks and brembo pads, don't know if they stop any better but there is a lot less brake dust generated .
Hi ian. you should keep the l400 delica, They are very popular here in australia i myself had 3 of them, Your correct the power steering pump runs off a gear drive which bolts to the right front of engine near the brake vacuum pump. also most mitsubishis including triton' pajero that run the 4m40 t/diesel or non turbo diesel all run the gear drive,They are quite easy to work on iv had the whole front unbolted front bumper, factory bullbar grill, radiator, radiator support, etc yep all unbolts for easy removal of the engine to do a rear main seal, anyway enjoy.
As a general rule, the picture of a fuel pump and or little triangle is placed within the fuel gauge on the same side as filler neck. So picture on the right, fill up on the right and vice versa.
As someone who has had a HubNut fleet in the past, picking 1 car to be fully sorted is, to me, the most important thing to do. Sort out the Delica, now that Elly is legal, and you'll be happy you did.
Yeah, that’s what I was thinking. If the engine or trans. needed major work that would make it unviable. Good idea to get the pre. MOT and see how it goes and re-asses.
From the videos and Ian’s description of it being sluggish, the injectors are end of life, the pump most likely needs a rebuild, turbo is down on boost, or, it has a post turbine induction leak (also entirely possible since Ian said that it is noisy under load), it is leaking oil, power steering fluid, and the salt has eaten shit out of the under body, just look at the state of the brake parts. I make my money off of diesels, and yes, if you give them love they will run for years, my 1986 Hilux has 430K on it and it has never had a 🔧 on it, save for services and a set of injectors every 100K.
I had a Delica - but the older L300 variant. It had a 2" lift, big bull bars, ladder... it looked awesome and I loved driving it. However it cost me a fortune in repairs and there was always something wrong with it. The head gasket went on it (twice) and I had to have a reconditioned one....plus all manner of other expensive stuff over the three years or so I had it. I still miss it though.
I know you are a good distance away, but one day I'd like to see you drive around the Great Orme in Llandudno [post-COVID]. Great scenery, there is a small toll collected to drive around the hill on a switchback one lane road, but it's a fantastic driving road. It's meant to be taken in slowly, not quickly. If nothing else, you can drive to the top and there is a great view! You'd be brave to take the 2CV up there, if you are looking for a challenge (or a dare, your choice!) but any of the HubNut vehicles make for some quite excellent viewing and photographing. No, the Great Orme has nothing to do with the Delica or your upcoming decisions with the vehicle. In my opinion, I think it's a great little 4x4 minivan, problems aside, but I'm not the one stuck paying your repair costs in time or money. So good luck! Hopefully the Delica works out.
Keep it. I have been through the same with my Sequoia. In fact the PAS still leaks a year later, but I have keep topping it up. Soon after buying I had to have the brakes done, threw on some used wheels and tyres (cheaper than buying tyres), fixed some emissions issues and the a/c. Then 2,500 mile road trip and a tooth came off the rear diff. Fixed the diff and then the gearbox went out. Replaced the gearbox. At each point it was worth the fix to bring value back to the vehicle if I was to sell it. Now a year later I have an almost fully sorted car I really like and trsut. Small things keep popping up, but I enjoy fixing those. I now have a good used steering rack I am going to get refurbished and fit, then it is sorted until the next coil pack goes out, but I carry a spare for that.
Have I spent more than the vehicle is worth despite buying it cheap? Yes. Could buying a batter one to start with been better? That I will never know, but this worked with the budget and money I had, I could not afford a better one at the time.
I still believe this could be one of your best buys yet. Your tinkering is one of my fav Hubnut features, you hit all the same problems I do and have done.
You reflect my sentiments about my 1991 Mitsubishi Pajero automatic which from time to time I keep thinking I ought to sell it on. But, like you, I enjoy driving it and your spot on in that you must adapt your driving style to the tempo of the vehicle. Trying to hustle it along just results in more volume and clag seen in the rear view mirror!
A decent Turbo Diesel is similar to a large capacity petrol but where Betty's torque would break traction readily, a diesel or turbo diesel's characteristic is to lug from low revs without the need to change down and hang on to the gear longer when climbing. A 1996 Transit 190 manual 5 speed loaded to maximum weight and driven hard would return 32 mpg average in my experience, so you are doing ok with that big 2800cc turbo automatic getting 27 mpg. The 2.5 Ford Enduro would easily tow a laden trailer so you have yourself a very versatile vehicle with 4x4 and automatic transmission for better hillstarting performance with a trailer than slipping a clutch. When towing remember to use the gears manually in hilly terrain to avoid the gearbox overheating in auto mode. She's a fine van. She's worth the money.
Once you have certain issues straight, it should work for you quite nice. You need a dependable car that can be counted on always and then you can mess around with the rest knowing you have a backup. A lot less frustrating that way.
Don’t worry about a purchase or decision that didn’t go well, there is always better out there, got to go through the sea of rubbish and have a good eye and you will have something to cherish for life!
I would say you should keep the Delica as you've spent a reasonable amount on it so far. I agree with you when you said you should get it pre MOTed to see whats shown up there. It might not be as bad as you think. Every car has maintenance costs, but if you get another MOT on it you have at least another year to work on this particular project. I also think if you like the car then you should keep it. It would definitely give you a lot more video content for your channel. Didn't realise you lived so far away from your Unit! Now thats what i call devotion for you! Well done sir! Still liking the channel content. Keep up the tinkering. Cheers.
I'm in a very similar position with my CRV, it's old, broken, I've thrown money at the engine (new timing belt, water pump etc). Still requires lots of work done to her and has now been sat for the better part of 7 months due to being abroad at work. I get the feeling this is gonna be an expensive MOT...
I would put the Delica in for an MOT, and see what it passes / fails on. As long as it does not fail on terminal rust - anything else is repairable. Its a good project car - and a great parts runner / daily driver, especially if you get a unit near to where you live. For me it would tick all the boxes, being Diesel automatic, indicators on what i think is the correct side, and a great seating position.
Im a mechanic Ian, and believe me you do very well given available working conditions and the variety of vehicles you have to juggle between. I suffer those same two problems, and even as a qualified spannerer, its really no easier, other than maybe being better prepared with the tools for the job (though hampered equally by no mains electricity available, so welding requires cranking up a generator - which the neighbours love.... ahem).
I completely agree with 1914 Saxon's post (a couple previous in this list). In summary, it's better the devil you know, mate. Your tyre needs (and soon your brake needs) are done for a few years of running in the beast and as Saxon points out, they can be looked on as a consumable item - like petrol or oil. The doodad in the suspension that needs welded to the frame (because the bolt is naffed) on the left rear is a "oncer" - ie: likely only to be encountered once rather than done many times. Sure - the power steering needs work somewhere in the system to resolve the leak, but again, once that is resolved, it shouldn't give you any more grief until the Delica has done a similar milage again to what it reads now. Those Mitzi diesels do tend to like their fuel, but they go forever if maintained well - and it sounds good from this end of the speaker anyway. The interior of the vehicle looks quite comfy and the all-important seatbelts are already in situ.......AND you have the added benefits of being able to fill it with parts (or merch) and go somewhere or hook up a trailer and go get a load of firewood for winter / pick up a new acquisition ;) . I reckon, given time and attention, the Delica will give you the value of its much-needed maintenance and more - just like Ellie has. Good luck with whichever choice you make though :)
I’m in a similar situation with my 323iA E36. Can’t sell it because of Vanos failure now, but on the other hand it’s a pity to let it go because I already spend double her asking price fixing her so I think I’ll give bimmer one last chance ;)
I’ve spent £2108.88, at the last count, on parts and paint for my T25. Which is up on stands. The carb is stripped down in cleaner, with a rebuild kit ready to go. The problem is I’m working 6 days a week and finding time is more difficult than finding parts.
I definitely would keep it. As a loyal Mitsubishi owner I know it will reward you with many years of service. All cars,as you know, have their expenses. On mpg, I've found that mine gets better miles when I don't thrash it also. I also let off the pedal on down hill areas. I will shift into neutral at traffic signals since I have no stop start tech. It becomes a game to try to beat my best mpg each tank.
Have you looked into buying another one for spares or repairs and making a good one out the two and selling off what’s left? Had a mate who did this with a pajero.
You might have an issue with yours somewhere as the Delica is not that slow. The 2.8TD and 3.0 petrol are pretty good performance wise and should pull well. They're not as fast as as a performance car or anything but they should give you the pushed back in your seat feeling when pushing them. I'm wondering if you have further issues with that one?
"It's like driving a W123 Mercedes, there is no point hurrying one of those" I am a former W123 owner and can vouch for this (Except the 280TE, that had some poke!)
Happy your hearing issue was not serious. Keep doing your own work,I used to do all my own and i the overall experience was quite satisfying. If you can find a mechanic friend to talk you through an issue,that can be quite helpful.
Definitely worth spending a bit on it to put it right. As you say it is unique in your collection and it is an interesting vehicle in its own right. I have an old 6cylinder E46 BMW because I like the engine and the styling of it. Took 6 months of tinkering and fettling last year (including new brake lines, all new suspension and rebuilding all the calipers) to get it on the road, but it's worth it to have something fun :-) Still has things that need attention, but that's half the fun 😁 About to do the same for my dad's old Berlingo so it's tip top come MOT time. Just a driveway tinkerer, but not too bad with the spanners ;-)
Just keep it mate.. Good work horse... once you sort it out you will not regret it.. They come in so handy.. Keep up the good work.. and yes ..also the fails... your honest.. which is such a great thing in this world...
Don't fret. I know of a man who bought a Yugo with no tailgate.
And a biscuit chassis Tercel...
It has a tailgate it’s just not attached to the car
that silly man ;) who bought a yugo, should really look for that Saturday night Live tv ad for the "Claygo" mid 80s when the yugo came out, it even came with "Form fitting seats!"
The tailgate is merely observing current distancing rules ;-)
I'd like a Delica. I enjoyed owning my '96 Shogun LWB.
I've had a lifetime of running decrepit old cars, and have adopted a philosophical approach to expenses: look on oil, tyres, brakes as just part of the running costs which you will have with any car - if you keep the car you are unlikely to be spending money on them again for a good few years. Structural repairs and major replacements are capital costs which need to be considered against the value of the car, and even then you have to balance that against the unknowns of a replacement car. If the car is basically enjoyable and meets your needs, stick with it!
"if you keep the car you are unlikely to be spending money on them again for a good few years", Eh?
@Frazzle Face Think he means in the sense that the brakes and tyres will last for a good few years and wont cost anything, compared to buying another car where that is likely not the case.
Tyres lasting more than a season? what is this heresy?
I am at that point with a Scenic at the moment - still got 5 months MOT on it - needs various front suspension knocks sorting out and it has an ABS sensor out. I had the rears done which means new rear discs and hubs ( for that is where the sensor lives ) and new pads - £300. It goes runs and stops fine - its a sensor only but can't be arsed with getting the front one done so am putting off any more expenditure during periods of limited travel and keeping my eyes peeled for something that takes my fancy then I may change and the Scenic will then be scrapped. It seems daft even to me when £500 tops would sort it out but you know when you just fall out of love with something?
@@darrenwilson8042 The Scenic sounds delicious. Ian'll snap your hand off for a thing like that ;)
Mr Hubnut, you should keep it. Good Delica's seem to go for good money. They're either £400 for a scrapper or £4,000+ for a reasonable one and nothing in between. Definitely worth keeping yours going.
His was inbetween, it was 1200 quid.
@@frazzleface753 Yes, but that was mate's rates.
@@richardsutton01 Looks like it - £800 above market value based on OP's comment !
@@richardsutton01 some mate that was! 😃
15k in the USA which is crazy.
Ian, this is the perfect choice for a daily driver. Make it the number one priority in your fleet and get it MoTd and 100% sorted. Elly's now got an MoT so you can crack on with the Delica.
Only Hub Nut would cite wiper performance as the number one reason to keep a vehicle!
Thought the same, just as I was thinking get shot of it, cut your losses. Also thought €100 for the City Rover was far too cheap, especially for a runner
Love your videos mate. Super interesting and borderline ASMR.
Sometimes it's just best to not look at the monetary value, but look instead at its' practical value, even if it does have a bit of a drinking problem... :D
Its value may increase as the vehicle ages. VW microbuses were dirt cheap used years ago and it's astounding to see how much they increased in recent years. You never know.
Monetary value is only an issue with collector's cars, all others are just emotional value.
Old South Wales "Green laning". New South Wales "Going to the shops"
stick with it once sorted you'll have a vehicle that will last for years
Absolutely, every Japanese van with a diesel engine is with the right TLC unbreakable
Gerard Bos von Hohenfels, only if the previous owners have given it TLC, maintenance is not like a Catholic confession, one good oil change won’t undo years of neglect; then there’s the salt damage underneath it, a shiny turd is still a turd.
@@gerardbosvonhohenfels1866 the engine may be unbreakable, the bits that surround it don't. They rust and wear even if it says Made in Japan.
@@volvo480 especially if it says made in Japan.
If structurally sound.
Welding classes for Ian !
For someone who once used a Swan Vesta matchbox tray and gaffer tape as a fuse-box cover on an Austin 1300, I could NEVER fault anyone elses attempts at bodgery!
We all know your not a proper mechanic, but like most of us that watch this your doing what you can as best you can because atleast you know how it was done. Keep up the great work 👍
I would stick with it, you've invested most of the money, you know its faults, and with a bit more work you'll have a really useful vehicle. And it's fun watching you work on it. All the best.
I've always tinkered with my own cars - it gives me an understanding of how they work and what the different bits look like so when I take them to professionals I can speak with some knowledge, understand their diagnoses and reduce the possibility of being ripped off. I'm not a brilliant mechanic but I have a logical mind and spend time looking and planning before diving in.
You can second-guess yourself all day! Shall I sell it, should I keep it, if I sell it, will I regret it, if I keep it, will I regret it. It's one of those old conundrums that'll keep you awake at night.
While you've got it, enjoy it!
And every good mechanic was once a bad one, so don't beat yourself up over that either! :-)
*My ears also need cleaning* I thought for a moment you said you paid £1,200 for it !
th-cam.com/video/6hKdvLSLZ_o/w-d-xo.html
#delica
I agree with others on here Ian, stick with it. It'll be worth it. We follow you because we know you are not a mechanic, but neither are a lot of us. We a tinkerer's! What your channel does is show others, that a lot of jobs you can tackle yourself. Keep up the good work 👍
i'm a mechanic , 20 plus years in and i think you're doing a wonderful job working on your fleet , as you say , we learn by doing and all the people who "expertly comment " need to remember we all started from somewhere . i hope the delica runs free for many years to come , a truly capable vehicle :)
That's the trouble with having your ears cleaned, you can hear a Delica depreciating.
Or just dropping to bits .......
One of the best MPV’s from that period was the Citroen/Peugeot 806. Buy them for £500 and get 40mpg off the HDI version. Nobody wants them but they are just brilliant. Even seen one on eBay for 99p which didn’t sell
Lucas power steering stop leak worked for me
I had a Mitsubishi Shogun 3000 V6, similar trim to your Delica and I loved it. Towed a caravan, went green laneing, hauled an extended family, with extra seats in the back. Then it started to show it's age. Replaced a rust holed, sump pan. Sunshine roof edges rusted and jammed, electric aerial seized and wouldn't come out to replace it, rust holes appeared in the floor pan behind the pedals. The final straw was the cylinder head gasket went on one bank. I could have replaced it, but a lot of work and expense and would still have a rusty vehicle at the end of it. Sold it as scrap. It even made it's own way onto the transporter, with no water in it. Broke my heart, but I feel your dilemma.
Triangle of inattention 😂
Oh, I thought it was “inner tension” 😂 The suspense of seeing where the dribble will go!
On a side note: do continue to be you Ian. It's these personal ramblings, struggling with choices on money, space and time, which almost every car enthusiast has to make, that I love this channel to bits.
The leak is usually the metal pipe under the front drivers side,you can get a rubber pipe made up with a new fitting on,quite an easy repair.
I've recently bought her Korean sister, the Hyundai H1, and I'm in love with it. It's true that it's painfully slow (and thirsty), but it's one of the most versatile vans I've ever seen and the space inside is huge.
Having non-binding brakes will seriously enhance fuel economy as well !
What’s this ? I have a delica and I am intrigued !!
To begin with the car had been sitting. It needs discs and pads and possibly new calipers all round. Your going to get that with nearly any car thats sat. But I think it's worth keeping and doing up. Good luck! :)
Stick with it, it's your work horse and a great family vehicle, so versatile. Sometimes we make these possibly bad choices, but once all the work is done and you have spent the money you will have a top notch vehicle that will be your fall back for all the other projects. The reason we watch you with your amateur mechanics is because most hubnutters are just like you, learning as we go along. Bugger anyone who leaves nasty comments, remember the bible quote, "He who casts the first stone", some of these people are so far up their own arses they forget that some of us just have to get on with it with the budget and ability we have. Your sound Ian.... You're just like us.
I love the reality of this channel. Keep up the good videos. I truly approve of you working on the cars. There is nothing wrong with it!
Thing is all of this generates content for your channel which earns you money. It's all investment in your business - which ultimately is this channel.
Which we really enjoy - your depth of knowledge on these older cars is immense, perhaps your engineering skill isn't quite at the same level :-D , but we watch it because you're an ordinary bloke doing some quite extraordinary things to keep these older cars going.
Keep it up!
Great video Ian I hope your pre inspection is not to bad good luck with her
Stick with it Ian, you’ve made good progress so far and Delica is a practical vehicle. You are thinking of moving house, it’s useful for the move and the 4x4 would be useful if you move away from the warm climate of New Quay and come back to the hills and snow. Don’t be too hard on yourself re your mechanic skills, many of us are self taught and we ain’t doing too bad. I admire the way you tackle most things...
I had found with my Delica 2.8 the turbo pressure relief valve/diaphragm was opening to early. I was not coming close the the boost I should have been, and this was with a new turbo installed. I had boost gauge installed and then fitted a boost control valve. With it now making full boost and also I did the fuel pump pintal adjustment it is much better when setting off and at full throttle. These old girls need abit of loving and thinking outside the box.
I think your plan is sound. As you note it's the most useful vehicle you own or are likely to. If your woes should extend to the steering rack there must be online groups for these cars who may have solutions. It may be that the rack is shared with a more common model. On ears, I've had mine blasted out a few times and the sudden return of high frequency response is indeed amazing! Cheers.
There is some thing about driving a car like a Delica you either like or not i think it is great and love the column gear selecter
Take heart Ian, I've been fiddling about with cars, old and not so old, since the early 70's and I've still not got the faintest idea what I'm doing! We just bumble along don't we. All the best
Admire your honesty about car work - I think it matches the mindset of alot of Hubnutters.
When the steering rack on my old 307 started leaking my garage sent it to a place in Neath to be refurbished.
It was done same day.
They also repair and refurbish propshafts.
B.A.R. Propshafts in Neath.
3 things on a auto, interior, bodywork and mechanics, 2 out of 3 are ok, 3 is hard work and little profit. A tip to clean the injectors put the cleaner in the fuel filter housing then pump up and go for drive, new oil and filters will also help with miles per gallon. Removing the back seats will help no end, thanks for the vid.
Could be worse, A Rover convertible (permanant) spec. 🤣 at least the Delica moves.
Suznet 555
. Yes, poor old "furious", he's got a job ahead of him with that one.
Furious Man is a Man with a Plan.
😂😂😂 exciting times
@@seancooke4127 yes, to buy as many Rovers as he can and hope the other half doesn't notice. 🤣
@@seancooke4127 if it was mine the plan would be soak it in petrol set fire to it claim on the insurance :)
Stick with it Ian.
It provides you with content, provides us with entertainment and it's a quirky vehicle - essential hubnut.
Wafty laziness and torque is precisely why I bought my Holden Calais - like the VY SS you drove, but with more toys, in some cases a lot more toys. It’s probably the best decision I’ve ever made, and it’s still my first car. I’ve spent a few thousand on stuff here and there, but I’ve also done most of the work myself because they’re so easy to work on, and there’s also the small fact that I’ve put 160,000 on it since I bought it 5 years ago.
If you want a great car to do long highway trips in, it’s hard to go past it.
Buys bargains, fixes enormously tricky mechanical conundrums,plays the ukulele,strides whole continents and does hairdos...is there no limit to this man's talents?
Ian ,i cured my power steering leak with leak stop,that was a year ago, on my Toyota, once the brakes were done she was ok and just the usual mot things. My toyota which was very similar to your Delica was about 25 MPG ,so that's good if you get 27 ,i think the vehicles a good all rounder ,and you spent £ 500 on that Yugo which you could have spent on the Delica so its swings and roundabouts.... i prefer the more unusual cars you have like foxanne and tuc ,but equally if you brought a Marina i would love it. Take care..👍👍👍👍👍
2CV noise. Jay Leno uses something called Dynamat in his restorations which deadens sound and insulates heat from the engine or exhaust. Have you tried it?
6 years ago ,I purchased a very small bottle of Olive Oil Ear Drops.You only use acouple of drops,and I have only use them twice.
being a competent mechanic means knowing how to fix the problems and having the patience to keep going. be safe, have fun.
There are neoprene foam tiles with a selfadhesive backing available which make exceptional soundproofing, branded versions are expensive, your 2CV can be quiet.
I get 29mpg around town with my 1999 astra 2.0 16v sri.
About 38mpg on the motorway.
@ 8:53 I thought you said you were continuing to drive home with my new wonderful earing lol.
I think i will have my ears sorted out haha.
Apart from the obvious lack of maintenance (wipers, brakes and tyres) it really isn't that bad. If you buy cars cheaply, you end up doing those jobs. I'd keep it and fix it. It may turn out to be a keeper since it is so practical.
I think the most important thing to maintaining a vehicle well is how much you love the vehicle. I've just got rid of a Smart 451 convertible which the wife loved and I hated and I hardly touched it. Just bought a Freelander 2 and I'm buying tools, service kits, part and cleaning products like they are going out of fashion. Love Land Rovers, hate Smarts, simples!
I can sum up why you like it:
It's friendly. I can tell it's a friendly car and I've not even driven it, all the best cars I've ever had have been like that 👍
Don't lose the Delica, bruh - we love it - it's got character, and it gathers pace by itself - no need to rush things!
Leaky power steering is a fairly standard feature on them. If you have a card for a local cash&carry, or keep your eye open at supermarkets for deals, put veg oil in the tank, but order a couple of spare fuel filters first and carry them with you.
They are not bad on the lanes, but the extra height can be a problem with trees, more so even the slightest side-slope feels terrifying!
Maybe just look at it as a tool for the job? Let's be honest, we've all done this at some point. As for your mechanicking skills, you are one of the most honest of the TH-camrs in that respect. And more power to you for that. Thanks for being you Ian, it's exactly that that makes your channel one of the best.
Love the Delica but you now have to do what’s best for you, your new family and your channel. I have to be honest I haven’t disliked any of your videos. Most TH-camrs I watch are very critical of their content but that always says to me that you love what you do. Which in turn means it will always be a pleasure to watch 👍🏻. Keep on Hubnutting and looking forward to future content. 😁😁
What are the buttons on your right hand on the steering wheel? Or some sort of clips? It’s on the body of the steering wheel.
what you did during this video we have all done at one point ....convince ourselves to keep something that you know ...you really know will be a money pit.....good on ya ! i'm not alone
It is a cute vehicle, I think it makes a unique addition to the Hubnut fleet.
seeing what it needs for its MOT is key, once that first MOT is done with a "new to you" car, the rest go quite well because you know you stand a good chance of keeping it maintained, if the delica does what it needs to do for you, then its worth keeping, with less binding on the brakes I think you are already seeing the MPG get better, refine the driving like you say and I am sure it will be fine. But heres another thought, woudl the Matiz be safer, easier to maintain, cheaper to run than the others? will the family fit in it?
Glad your learning not to thrash the bollocks off them all the time.
I like it when you do mechanic type things in videos , you inspired me to have a go. Been going my own disks and pads, what I saved in labour I spent on getting fancy brembo grooved disks and brembo pads, don't know if they stop any better but there is a lot less brake dust generated .
Hi ian. you should keep the l400 delica, They are very popular here in australia i myself had 3 of them, Your correct the power steering pump runs off a gear drive which bolts to the right front of engine near the brake vacuum pump. also most mitsubishis including triton' pajero that run the 4m40 t/diesel or non turbo diesel all run the gear drive,They are quite easy to work on iv had the whole front unbolted front bumper, factory bullbar grill, radiator, radiator support, etc yep all unbolts for easy removal of the engine to do a rear main seal, anyway enjoy.
You are not a terrible mechanic, you are working on very old cars with a limited budget and basic tools!
As a general rule, the picture of a fuel pump and or little triangle is placed within the fuel gauge on the same side as filler neck. So picture on the right, fill up on the right and vice versa.
Ooh Carms. you were close today! 😮😮👌👍 My lowly Alfa 166 4 cyl will be available for testing soon (after I change the variator) if you so desire!
Triangle of inner tension. YOUR new ones are the best ones. Got me lol'ing!
As someone who has had a HubNut fleet in the past, picking 1 car to be fully sorted is, to me, the most important thing to do. Sort out the Delica, now that Elly is legal, and you'll be happy you did.
Stick with it, Engine and transmission good, chassis good, body good, interior ok. your getting on top of the brakes eventually ;-)
Agreed. If engine doesn't burn oil, transmission is good, and the frame has no more than surface rust, Hubnut would have a good towing vehicle.
Yeah, that’s what I was thinking. If the engine or trans. needed major work that would make it unviable. Good idea to get the pre. MOT and see how it goes and re-asses.
From the videos and Ian’s description of it being sluggish, the injectors are end of life, the pump most likely needs a rebuild, turbo is down on boost, or, it has a post turbine induction leak (also entirely possible since Ian said that it is noisy under load), it is leaking oil, power steering fluid, and the salt has eaten shit out of the under body, just look at the state of the brake parts.
I make my money off of diesels, and yes, if you give them love they will run for years, my 1986 Hilux has 430K on it and it has never had a 🔧 on it, save for services and a set of injectors every 100K.
I had a Delica - but the older L300 variant. It had a 2" lift, big bull bars, ladder... it looked awesome and I loved driving it. However it cost me a fortune in repairs and there was always something wrong with it. The head gasket went on it (twice) and I had to have a reconditioned one....plus all manner of other expensive stuff over the three years or so I had it.
I still miss it though.
I know you are a good distance away, but one day I'd like to see you drive around the Great Orme in Llandudno [post-COVID]. Great scenery, there is a small toll collected to drive around the hill on a switchback one lane road, but it's a fantastic driving road. It's meant to be taken in slowly, not quickly. If nothing else, you can drive to the top and there is a great view! You'd be brave to take the 2CV up there, if you are looking for a challenge (or a dare, your choice!) but any of the HubNut vehicles make for some quite excellent viewing and photographing.
No, the Great Orme has nothing to do with the Delica or your upcoming decisions with the vehicle. In my opinion, I think it's a great little 4x4 minivan, problems aside, but I'm not the one stuck paying your repair costs in time or money. So good luck! Hopefully the Delica works out.
I have some Wynn's stop leak if you want Ian, unopened, but agree with getting it in for a pre-check to see what needs doing
Keep it. I have been through the same with my Sequoia. In fact the PAS still leaks a year later, but I have keep topping it up. Soon after buying I had to have the brakes done, threw on some used wheels and tyres (cheaper than buying tyres), fixed some emissions issues and the a/c. Then 2,500 mile road trip and a tooth came off the rear diff. Fixed the diff and then the gearbox went out. Replaced the gearbox. At each point it was worth the fix to bring value back to the vehicle if I was to sell it. Now a year later I have an almost fully sorted car I really like and trsut. Small things keep popping up, but I enjoy fixing those. I now have a good used steering rack I am going to get refurbished and fit, then it is sorted until the next coil pack goes out, but I carry a spare for that.
Have I spent more than the vehicle is worth despite buying it cheap? Yes. Could buying a batter one to start with been better? That I will never know, but this worked with the budget and money I had, I could not afford a better one at the time.
Lovely Jubbly, always a pleasure to watch Mr HubNut.
I still believe this could be one of your best buys yet. Your tinkering is one of my fav Hubnut features, you hit all the same problems I do and have done.
I've had both ears hoovered out before it really is a revelation!
You've got this far I think the car should be a keeper
Ian, this vlog charts you talking yourself into keeping the Delica. Thank you!
You reflect my sentiments about my 1991 Mitsubishi Pajero automatic which from time to time I keep thinking I ought to sell it on. But, like you, I enjoy driving it and your spot on in that you must adapt your driving style to the tempo of the vehicle. Trying to hustle it along just results in more volume and clag seen in the rear view mirror!
A decent Turbo Diesel is similar to a large capacity petrol but where Betty's torque would break traction readily, a diesel or turbo diesel's characteristic is to lug from low revs without the need to change down and hang on to the gear longer when climbing. A 1996 Transit 190 manual 5 speed loaded to maximum weight and driven hard would return 32 mpg average in my experience, so you are doing ok with that big 2800cc turbo automatic getting 27 mpg. The 2.5 Ford Enduro would easily tow a laden trailer so you have yourself a very versatile vehicle with 4x4 and automatic transmission for better hillstarting performance with a trailer than slipping a clutch. When towing remember to use the gears manually in hilly terrain to avoid the gearbox overheating in auto mode. She's a fine van. She's worth the money.
Once you have certain issues straight, it should work for you quite nice. You need a dependable car that can be counted on always and then you can mess around with the rest knowing you have a backup. A lot less frustrating that way.
You're getting about the same MPG I'm getting out of my V6 Mondeo with a slippy auto box, so that's not too bad.
Don’t worry about a purchase or decision that didn’t go well, there is always better out there, got to go through the sea of rubbish and have a good eye and you will have something to cherish for life!
I would say you should keep the Delica as you've spent a reasonable amount on it so far. I agree with you when you said you should get it pre MOTed to see whats shown up there. It might not be as bad as you think. Every car has maintenance costs, but if you get another MOT on it you have at least another year to work on this particular project. I also think if you like the car then you should keep it. It would definitely give you a lot more video content for your channel. Didn't realise you lived so far away from your Unit! Now thats what i call devotion for you! Well done sir! Still liking the channel content. Keep up the tinkering. Cheers.
I'm in a very similar position with my CRV, it's old, broken, I've thrown money at the engine (new timing belt, water pump etc). Still requires lots of work done to her and has now been sat for the better part of 7 months due to being abroad at work. I get the feeling this is gonna be an expensive MOT...
I would put the Delica in for an MOT, and see what it passes / fails on. As long as it does not fail on terminal rust - anything else is repairable. Its a good project car - and a great parts runner / daily driver, especially if you get a unit near to where you live. For me it would tick all the boxes, being Diesel automatic, indicators on what i think is the correct side, and a great seating position.
Im a mechanic Ian, and believe me you do very well given available working conditions and the variety of vehicles you have to juggle between. I suffer those same two problems, and even as a qualified spannerer, its really no easier, other than maybe being better prepared with the tools for the job (though hampered equally by no mains electricity available, so welding requires cranking up a generator - which the neighbours love.... ahem).
I completely agree with 1914 Saxon's post (a couple previous in this list). In summary, it's better the devil you know, mate. Your tyre needs (and soon your brake needs) are done for a few years of running in the beast and as Saxon points out, they can be looked on as a consumable item - like petrol or oil. The doodad in the suspension that needs welded to the frame (because the bolt is naffed) on the left rear is a "oncer" - ie: likely only to be encountered once rather than done many times. Sure - the power steering needs work somewhere in the system to resolve the leak, but again, once that is resolved, it shouldn't give you any more grief until the Delica has done a similar milage again to what it reads now. Those Mitzi diesels do tend to like their fuel, but they go forever if maintained well - and it sounds good from this end of the speaker anyway. The interior of the vehicle looks quite comfy and the all-important seatbelts are already in situ.......AND you have the added benefits of being able to fill it with parts (or merch) and go somewhere or hook up a trailer and go get a load of firewood for winter / pick up a new acquisition ;) . I reckon, given time and attention, the Delica will give you the value of its much-needed maintenance and more - just like Ellie has. Good luck with whichever choice you make though :)
I’m in a similar situation with my 323iA E36. Can’t sell it because of Vanos failure now, but on the other hand it’s a pity to let it go because I already spend double her asking price fixing her so I think I’ll give bimmer one last chance ;)
You will need the Delica to do long hauling Journeys now you are allowed to leave Wales. Also once you get a tow bar fitted it will be really useful.
I'd keep it as it has too many uses. Anyway what will you take on your up coming hunt for spares for the eastern european thing you just bought?
Ian time for another discovery? Must be plenty of ‘HubNut’ spec 300tdi’s or Td5s around in mid wales!! :D
I’ve spent £2108.88, at the last count, on parts and paint for my T25. Which is up on stands. The carb is stripped down in cleaner, with a rebuild kit ready to go. The problem is I’m working 6 days a week and finding time is more difficult than finding parts.
I definitely would keep it. As a loyal Mitsubishi owner I know it will reward you with many years of service. All cars,as you know, have their expenses. On mpg, I've found that mine gets better miles when I don't thrash it also. I also let off the pedal on down hill areas. I will shift into neutral at traffic signals since I have no stop start tech. It becomes a game to try to beat my best mpg each tank.
Have you looked into buying another one for spares or repairs and making a good one out the two and selling off what’s left? Had a mate who did this with a pajero.
You might have an issue with yours somewhere as the Delica is not that slow. The 2.8TD and 3.0 petrol are pretty good performance wise and should pull well. They're not as fast as as a performance car or anything but they should give you the pushed back in your seat feeling when pushing them. I'm wondering if you have further issues with that one?
Your always good to watch, your like the rest of us when it comes to trying to fix things. I always look forward to your videos
"It's like driving a W123 Mercedes, there is no point hurrying one of those" I am a former W123 owner and can vouch for this (Except the 280TE, that had some poke!)
Had a W123 3.0D auto, lovely gentle waft along barge. 0-60 use a calendar ;)
Happy your hearing issue was not serious.
Keep doing your own work,I used to do all my own and i the overall experience was quite satisfying. If you can find a mechanic friend to talk you through an issue,that can be quite helpful.
Definitely worth spending a bit on it to put it right. As you say it is unique in your collection and it is an interesting vehicle in its own right.
I have an old 6cylinder E46 BMW because I like the engine and the styling of it. Took 6 months of tinkering and fettling last year (including new brake lines, all new suspension and rebuilding all the calipers) to get it on the road, but it's worth it to have something fun :-)
Still has things that need attention, but that's half the fun 😁
About to do the same for my dad's old Berlingo so it's tip top come MOT time.
Just a driveway tinkerer, but not too bad with the spanners ;-)
Just keep it mate..
Good work horse... once you sort it out you will not regret it..
They come in so handy..
Keep up the good work.. and yes ..also the fails... your honest.. which is such a great thing in this world...
Everyone needs a flouncy velour 4 x 4 MPV.
Mmmmmm Velour.....
I guess you'll have to find out what's really wrong with it before you decide. But what would you replace it with?