SJ Repair Difficulty / Costs

[ukmarc]

Hi,

I'm considering getting an SJ, would like to find a nice example around '86 reg. However, as these cars are getting older, I'm wondering how difficult it is to get spares or get them repaired as it will be a family car.

I wonder if anyone can advise - for example, would i realistcally be able to take it to a regular garage for repairs and would they or I be able to source the spres required? Would I end up paying out loads extra?

Many thanks,
Marc

[andyrew]

Hi marc.

How big is your family? As sjs are small uncomfortable slow and use quite a bit of fuel.

Parts wise the second hand market is quite big and reasonable prices can be found if your keeping
The vehicle standard. Like anything its when you want to make changes and modifications
It gets more expensive.

Most work on an sj mechanicals can be done on the drive.

But rust is the main issue with any sj. so knowing how to weld or someone who does is going
To be important.

[ukmarc]

Cheers andyrew, there's only the 3 of us - i drove my dad's 413 when i was younger. He had it for about 12 years and it was really reliable over that time which was one reason I was attracted back to them. Admittedly, it was rust that did for it in the end but it really felt like it didn't owe anything back to us. I seem to remember it being pretty good on the fuel but i suppose petrol costs were lower back then.

I'd go for a standard 413, ideally but would be happy to look out for a nice one and pay a grand or two if I thought I'd get something that would be a worthwhile investment. Would I get something nice and rust free for this, do you think?

And what sort of mpg should I expect from a 413 and a 410?

Thanks,marc.

[andyrew]

There are still some gems out there to be found

Indeed they are Reliable ive done 20k in mine in 2 years. But rust is going to be the next
Issue for the old girl. But shes a j reg car with 101k on the clock so ill let her off

I get around 27 mpg on average. Thats a bog standard sami with a webber carb conversion
But the webber is known for being a bit juicey. The su Iis supposed to be slighlty better
On fuel.

Id say sami tin top if you can find one in good order. But im biased I also preffer jap built over
Spanish. But thats just me

[OllieSJ]

Ive just splashed out on loads of new parts its hard to find small bits now as most people just chucked them away but big bits you will be fine with

[Jordi]

Silly statement, but.... It can be as expensive and difficult as you want to make it.

Still some solid gems about for top dollar usually. Also some rotters about for peanuts.

I gave £150 for mine. You could poke your finger through the wings, floor and sills!!! Not anymore!