Stock #6646
Exterior Overview
If you need an all-around decent performing SUV, the Hilux Surf is a one-stop shop. It’s a sporty rig that receives high marks for efficiency, capability, and performance. This 1998 is about as desirable as it gets, as it was spec’d with an intercooled diesel that will probably outlast your grandkids. Finished in a Black over Gray Metallic (204) two-tone, this SSR-X is set off by eye-catching custom vinyl, an OEM spare tire swingarm, a scooped OEM bonnet, refinished factory alloys, and an aggressive rear spoiler. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and loss of clearcoat that’s been obscured by the colorful graphics, the paint is in fine shape, and this hauler is fresh off a recent service. Touting only 111k verified and documented miles on the clock, this center locked beast is barely broken in. Ideal as a year-round daily driver, capable campsite companion, and everything in between, this truck is loaded with Japanese Classic DNA, down to the frame! Tough, collectible, handsome, and cool, this KZN185 won’t last long.
Interior Overview
The cabin is in good shape overall and has a number of safety features, upgrades, and loads of space for people and cargo. The aesthetic is sportier than most, with OEM faux carbon trim and dark charcoal confetti upholstery. The charcoal colored cloth is durable and desirable, and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The driver benefits from adjustable lumbar support, and the rear occupants can recline their seat backs slightly for better comfort. The rear row can also split fold to create a flat loading floor. Daily use is made more manageable thanks to a tilt-adjustable steering column, and power windows, power locks, and electric mirrors all function, too. The OEM audio was replaced in Japan with a touchscreen Eclipse head unit. It is intuitive to use and comes preloaded with some killer jams from the Land of the Rising Sun! The automatic climate controls are within arm’s reach. The large buttons are easy to depress, and the heat and air conditioning work as they should. If you prefer more natural ventilation, the rear glass powers down to let in a light breeze. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and dual SRS airbags are standard on this third generation. We did want to note some light lifting of the vinyl right by the top right corner of the glovebox, which is typical of Surfs of this vintage. The headliner and door cards are in good shape, and the carpets are protected by a set of impossibly cool factory molded floormats. Aside from a non-functional drop-down spoiler mirror and a non-operational power folding function of the driver’s side mirror, it’s hard to complain about the cabin. It even includes the OEM carpet mats and OEM cargo shade cover for the new American owner to enjoy!
Mechanical Overview
This body-on-frame platform can stand up to loads of use and abuse. The same can be said for the engine, an intercooled version of the enthusiast’s choice 1KZ-TE. Performance junkies love this powerplant as it reduces EGTs over non-intercooled models, adds 20hp, and you get a killer looking scooped hood! Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 3.0L churns to life care of two new 12V batteries. A new engine air filter and a new fuel filter keep things on the up and up, and we installed a new intake crossover tube because the original was cracked. A new valve cover gasket and half moon seal were installed to keep the oil level on full! The rehabbed 1K pulls hard to redline and is certainly not slow! The engine is connected to a stout automatic gearbox that makes good use of its low-end grunt. The selectable transfer case can be engaged on the fly, allowing the driver to switch between 2WD and 4WD. A new output seal was installed to keep fluid internal, and an optional center locker and low range allow the driver to maximize traction when the going gets tough. It gets up to highway speeds quickly and can stop fast, thanks to new front brake pads and rotors. The power steering is direct, and one of our master technicians rebuilt the steering rack, by installing new seals and bushings. We also refreshed the suspension with new front lower ball joints and new front lower control arms. The inner and outer tie rods were replaced to make the alignment easy, and we also replaced the front sway bar links. Lastly, we mounted and balanced four new 31″ Falken tires, which look dang good on the redone rolling stock, and should last for years!
*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.
