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Hey Hayden

I saw your reply just now- thanks!

I ended up getting a 1995 SWB Hiace SBV. It has only 177,000 km on the clock and no major rust.

I had it checked out by a mechanic and he gave it the thumbs up. It cost $8k.

What's a head? Head gasket?

I have already driven it 1000 km down the highway and it goes like a rocket. Pretty noisy though.

At the moment I am getting a seat for my son put in the back. A few traps for new players I have discovered.

The reason I didn't go for a high roof Commuter is because the van will be my everyday driver and I live in the inner city where the roads are narrow and busy.

The SBV is quite a bit wider and higher than a standard Hiace though.

Thanks again, Charles

Thanks for all the great advice Camper_Dan 

Cool van! Thanks for sharing 

Hello campervanners!

I have decided to buy my first campervan and need some help with vehicle selection.

I'm after a 1999-2004 Toyota Hiace with the petrol EFI engine with preferably max of 250,000 ks on the clock.

I would prefer auto but would be happy with manual.

I would like to get a SBV (UK style) but they are quite rare in Australia.

What should I look out for?

I've been told the timing belt needs to be replaced every 100,000 ks. Is that true?

Is there anything else that typically causes problems with these vans?

What should I look out for when I inspect them?

Also, what about a van with low 300,000 ks on the clock? Is that a no-no?

I will get a full inspection of the van before I buy it, but I want to weed out the duds first.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

Charles