Get guys I'm looking at getting a 91 Hilux surf that's jap spec. When I move back to the states next year I'm going to have to do a speedometer swap to mph so it will be dot approved. Does anyone know if I can pull a 4runner speedometer and throw it in since it's the US model? If not where I can buy one built specifically for this? Thanks for the help

 

You will have to do more than a speedo swap. Do a search for "Grey Market Vehicles" I think you need EPA and DOT certifications. You might need speedo, door braces, emissions, etc.

 

I'm not sure if it's the same with the hilux, but on other jap imported vehicles I have heard of issues with the headlights, windows, and tires (along with as bswarm mentioned, the emissions).

I would definitely make sure you have a good idea of what will need to be changed before jumping in!

Just for curiosity sake, why would you prefer the hilux over the north american version? Is it just the diesel your after?

 

We'll good news is is falls under the 25yr historical car so I won't have to do a lot of those things. And as far as emissions Alabama doesn't have any emission tests for any vehicles. And I want it because it's a V6 turbo deseil and right side drive, idk why but I've always wanted a right side drive.

 

That is good news! That will save a lot of time and headaches!

Have you ever driven a right hand drive vehicle before?
From personal experience they aren't the best. When merging into traffic, and trying to pass you have odd blind spots, also if it's standard that adds a bit of a learning curve... Either way, once your used to it, it's not that bad! I prefer left hand drive though (given the choice).

 

We'll I actually just want if for a wheeling rig. I want something that will turn heads without the super high bill for it. But back to the point would you know if a 4runner speedometer will just plug in or if I would have to go to a shop for a custom fabricated one?

 

Well a diesel 4runner would definitely turn some heads!

I would imagine you would have to switch the gauge cluster and use the original sender. If I have it right, the sender will pulse something like 4 rimes per rotation and the gauge will convert that to the speedo reading in the cluster.

 

im not that sure its a v6 turbo diesel. There was a 2.4 4cyl turbo diesel, a v6 3.0 gas v6, then a 3.0 4 cyl diesel.