Has anyone had to purchase a new engine? If so, can you share where you got it from? Delica USA was mentioned but I didn’t know if there were better options. We’re in Seattle. Our 89 starwagon has found itself in the shop at Apex in Burien, Wa. I’m not anywhere near the mechanically minded but its safe to say something with the heart of the engine or head has blown. We are in the decision process of investigating the depth of damage. Best case scenario it’s just the head but if it’s the lower part of the engine it will be best to purchase a whole new engine as opposed to piecing it all together.
I’m thinking we’ll replace the radiator at this time too.
Any advice is appreciative. Thanks!
Hey there, Benn the Delica Guy here. You are dealing with the same Dilemma as many Delica Star Wagon owners. The problems that arise around the engine are usually the Balance Belt snaps and gets tangled up with the timing belt system and throws the gears out of timing. This little diesel engine is an "Interference" Engine which means when it is out of timing Valves hit Pistons and break things. Before I got evicted, my shop was the first in North America to Install the Hyundai D4BF motor as a replacement in the Delica L300. I've installed about 10 of those. So, now to your situation..... How much do you like your Delica? How good a condition is it? You are looking at a minimum of $5000 USD to replace the engine, Not including the Radiator. No Quick fix here. Time to make a financial decision. My experience is that the Delica usually has at least 3,Three major mechanical problems that pop up around the same time as the engine needs work. Rotors, Calipers, Transmission etc. So have at some spare cash for maintenance tucked away. Costs..... $1500 CDN in Service time to install an engine, New or Used. Used Engines are about $2500 CDN, (Not including Seals, New Timing Belts, Tensioners, Water pump and Block Heater another $800 CDN) So, now we are at $4800 CDN. Now you need a new rad as you need to replace that with a new water pump. A Re-cored Rad (Old Rad with Brand New Core) is $900 CDN.
Total at an "experienced shop" is: $5700 CDN Dollars. These are Actual Prices based on past installs here on Vancouver Island in Canada.
Your next question is: Delica Guy, Can you do the install? Well, I don't have a shop anymore. I don't have a Garage either. I am currently doing an engine replacement in a Pajero with the same 4D56 that the Delica runs. He has a garage so I will be doing the change in the customers garage.
So, how does this help you??? It doesn't. If I had the cash, I would build a nice 12' High Double garage with a lift. But alas, I am not Elon Musk (If I was Elon, I would have an Electric Delica!!!). Look on Craigsist for a used engine. Replace all the belts, seals and tensioners before install.
Recommendations??? Yes, Best place to check for Delica Parts is: Craigslist - Vancouver, Comox Valley AND Facebook Marketplace Vancouver, Comox Valley, Nanaimo and Victoria. Moderator Please pass this Secret on to All Delica owners.
This post is Very important for All Delica owners who have NOT REPLACED the TIMING and BALANCE Belts yet. Get it done ASAP and Checked at 60,000km and Replace at 80,000Kms. This is the voice of Technician Experience.
Hope this helps.... PM if you have other questions. Advice is free... Cheers all from the Delica Guy on Vancouver Island B.C. Canada
