1985 Toyota Van LE review from North America

The front brake calipers have seized more than once (a Toyota Van specialty) but I have had them fixed with no problems.

In the summer of 1998 while on my way to Indianapolis, I blew the differential, ostensibly due to a casting flaw that existed from the factory and went undetected for 13 years) but had retrofitted; it still works today.

In 2001, I remounted the exhaust manifold by having the head removed and refitted with new studs, one of which had broken from rust and age.

In the summer of 2002, I blew the gearbox (all gears except 4th which is the final drive) while driving in Arkansas, but still got home which involved crossing eight states (wow!). The 4th gear allowed me to travel smoothly at 70mph (the Van usually likes 80). As for the gearbox, I intend to have it rebuilt if is not too expensive.

This van was purchased on the merits of it's advertising appeal, the sleek look of the vehicle, it's turning radius and load capacity. I bought the 5spd for the quicker performance as well as for it's practicality in winter driving and deep snow. My model was the LE, window, cargo van with no rear seats.

What I discovered about this vehicle was the wonderful way it slipped down the highway and the height advantage that it generously provided it's driver. I just loved it and still do to this day. I should have bought two as it is, in my opinion, irreplacable.

The effect from wind shear can be lethal at times and demands a firm grip on the wheel when crossing high bridges or following in the wake of an 18 wheeler, where gusts live. The vehicle has a narrow stance and short wheelbase. Because the seats are positioned above the front wheels, it offers a sometimes punishing and bouncy ride. Fully laden on a factory heavy-duty suspension, it's ride improves substantially. It is, after all, a cargo van.

Braking must also be taken with the greatest of care, especially with a now older vehicle like mine. With little or no sheet metal up front to protect the legs in the event of a frond end impact, I avoided tailgating at all times which is a safe practice nonetheless.

Rust is normal to good for a vehicle this age.

Aside from the enjoyment of cruising down the highway comfortably and quickly, it's good on gas and carries a very full load extremely well and equally as economically as while running empty, a surprise even to me. I think it's due to it's aerodynamic design.

This '85 LE Van, despite it's occasional breakdowns in late life (now 18 years), is remarkably reliable. It has travelled from Canada to Florida 10 times now, has been driven throughout the Eastern states very extensively and has taken this driver coast to coast twice, the second time being a round the States trip in 1999 that involved 15,500km (10,000mi) in the short period of five weeks. Repair cost while enroute...$35.00 to repair an exhaust leak at a Midas Muffler outlet in Bakersfield, CA.. When I returned, It actually had MORE pep.

Dollar for dollar, it's the best $10,500.00 that I have ever spent and it owes me nothing. And with all that it still delivers and may acievably reach 400,000km.