1993 Toyota LiteAce GLX 5K. 1.5 cc from Philippines

Summary:

The Lite-Ace is a very practical, reliable, durable, simple, useful and low maintenance vehicle

Faults:

My Toyota Lite-Ace developed over-heating problems for a while. But this has been solved, as mentioned in other comments. The Toyota Lite-Ace over-heating problems are primarily due to poor cooling system maintenance i.e. worn radiator cap i.e. the spring is rusted or loose/ rubber gasket is worn out), punctured or cracked radiator hoses, installation of a cheap rubber hose that deforms as the engine gets hot restricting water coolant flow in the engine, clogged radiator due to accumulation of mineral sediments from the water (that is why radiators have to be regularly flushed.)

What I would like advice on is how to increase power to the Lite-Ace. My cruising speed is down to 70-80 kph, and the mileage is down to about 7 k/liter. My Lite-Ace is 13 years old.

The engine probably needs to be de-carbonized, but other than this, I was thinking of getting a better air filter, changing the distributor to a contact-less distributor, changing the ignition coil and spark plug wires. I think these would all be of help, but would these changes result in a significant improvement? Would appreciate anyone's thoughts/ suggestions.

General Comments:

The Lite-Ace is a great car - simple/ not too expensive to maintain (non-fuel injected/ no computer chips) ; a car an ordinary person can still do some simple self-maintenance on.

The space is great. I use it to transport our 4 dogs - three Labradors and a mixed breed Pomeranian/ Lasha-apso and one cat. Plus small appliances/construction materials from time to time.

The reason I would like to make improvements to it, is so that I can still keep and use it. My wife wants to change it with a new vehicle.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th May, 2006

12th Apr 2007, 10:08

The LiteAce is built for work, not speed. If you want more speed, replace the differential with a high speed one. Of course, this will be paid for in torque, especially in steep hills. If you opt for this, better change your clutch to a better one too.

In your case, the problem seems to be in the timing of your ignition. it's probably set too late and your spark plugs fire way after the downward stroke of your pistons. Have your ignition timing checked. You should be able to go up to 110-120 kph on flat roads (no load and no ac).

7th Apr 2009, 03:19

We have a 1993 Liteace as well. It has been very good in the 2 years we have had it. Does anyone know how to remove the curtains so they can be washed?

13th Jul 2009, 09:43

Hello.

Would need advice from you guys. I just got a 93 GXL Liteace and I can say I am indeed very happy driving her around. Taking a cue from the others in this forum, I would like to make sure I drain the water in the radiator at least regularly. But question is I have been trying to look for the drain valve and can't seem to find it. Can anybody please help out? Appreciate it.

27th Oct 2009, 04:27

To the guy looking for the radiator drain plug, it is located at the lower right side portion of the radiator.

It is made of plastic and is not very commonly available. A bit bigger than the older Corolla models.

1st Apr 2010, 19:21

Good Day.

I was wondering if any of you would know where I can buy tail lights for my Liteace? Had my left one broken. I was wondering also if it is possible to buy a piece only, or should it be a pair? Appreciate it.

1991 Toyota LiteAce GXL 1.5 5K from Philippines

Faults:

Engine temperature reaches half after 20 minutes drive.

Water pours out at the reservoir after use.

Needs to pull choke lever before cranking to avoid strong vibration.

General Comments:

The van is OK at the moment I already found the cure from overheat which is one of the important factor, here is my idea add silicon oil to the clutch fan if you feel your fan is loose then remove the coil located in the middle clutch fan.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 24th January, 2006

5th Feb 2006, 23:24

I acquired a 91' LiteAce last December and I noticed that it has no water reservoir.

Is it normal for a LiteAce to have no water reservoir?

I find it hassle coz every time I add water in the radiator, I have to lift the driver seat and remove things in the console.

Comment pls..