Mini Trucks

Japanese mini trucks weight approximately 1550lbs., depending on the extras fitted on the mini truck (e.g. tow bar)

Mini trucks are rated from the factory for a 750lb payload. Due to ATV tire sizes we recommend a maximum of 550 lbs payload per mini truck.

This is a commonly asked question and in my view no one model of mini truck is better than the other (it's a bit like the Chevy vs. Ford thing). A lot of it depends on the terrain / environment the mini truck is to be used in. On very hilly, steep country a centrally mounted engine has a better center of gravity, and perhaps a mini truck model with differential lock is more suited. On flat to light rolling country any mini truck model will perform well. The Subaru and Mitsubishi mini truck tend to have the larger cab that is better for the taller or bulkier person. We can help you determine what model would be best suited for your needs.

Due to the lower center of gravity (and centrally mounted engine in most models except Subaru), mini trucks are very stable, especially when compared to a quad. Mini trucks are very stable:

• Going up hill - A mini truck is highly unlikely to tip over backwards. Mini trucks are even safer, especially if there is a need to stop during ascent, with excellent 4-wheel braking.
• Going down hill - A mini truck is especially stable when towing, with excellent 4 wheel braking. The mini trucks' wheelbase makes them safer down hill and less likely to jack-knife.
• Side-ways - wide, low wheelbase and low center of gravity make them very stable on the side of hills. Also any shift in load (fluid weight or posts etc moving) should not have an adverse effect.

Until 1991 all Japanese mini truck models had a 550cc engine. There was a Japanese Gov't law change in 1991 which allowed mini trucks to have an engine up to 660cc. Hence all Japanese mini truck models from 1991 onwards are 660cc. All mini truck models have a 3-cyl in-line petrol engine except Subaru, which has an in-line 4-cyl engine.

• Daihatsu mini trucks - all have a 4-speed hi/low ratio gearbox. Some late model 1992 -> have a std 5 speed g/box - no hi/low ratio
• Suzuki mini trucks - generally 4-speed hi/low but some have a 5spd + extra low gear (6-speed) - no hi/low. 1st gear low ratio and extra low gear are very similar. 1st low may be somewhat slower. In either case the low gear idle speed is perfect for following stock.
• Mitsubishi mini trucks - 4spd hi/low ratio in nearly all models to date. The odd one has had a 5spd hi/low.
• Subaru mini trucks - all have a 5spd + extra low gear (6 speed). No hi/low.
• Honda mini trucks - 5spd fulltime 4wd - no hi/low.

No. All mini truck makers only produce petrol engine models.

Yes. All mini truck models have a standard heater and also an am radio (Japanese model). A standard NZ am/fm radio can be fitted.

Tallahassee Mini Trucks orders all our truck with air conditioning.

Any mini truck parts are avaliable like oil filters, brake pads, clutches, and water pumps. You can also cross reference some parts at your local auto parts store.

The bed of a mini truck measures 6.2' long x 4.25' wide.