Meet the Jumbo Jet

The start!

This is the foundation. The start. The base. My first Kei and project/toy!

I am very excited to have this as a fixer-upper, and even happier to have one that works. It was a shaky start, as it was delivered just a couple of short days ago. The battery died and would not start coming off the trailer. But this was as simple as a quick jump, and the problem was fixed for the most part. There are a few things I need to get done first, starting with the body and removing the rust.

The 1997 Daihatsu Hijet Super Jumbo is a rare Japanese kei truck featuring an extended cab with a high roof, a 659cc 3-cylinder engine, and a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Engine & Performance

Engine: EF-NS / EF-ES 659cc inline-3 gasoline engine

Power: ~42 to 44 horsepower (32 kW) and 41 lb-ft of torque

Drivetrain: Selectable 4WD with high/low range transfer case

Transmission: 5-speed manual

Dimensions & Weight

Length: 3,290 mm (129.5 inches)

Width: 1,390 mm (54.7 inches)

Height: ~1,900 to 1,940 mm (high roof configuration)

Curb Weight: ~710 kg (1,565 lbs)

Cargo & Capacity

Payload Capacity: 350 kg (approx. 770 lbs).

Bed Features: Drop-down and removable folding sides on all three sides.

Cabin Features

Design: Extended cab space behind the seats and raised high-roof clearance.

Comfort: Heat and vinyl seating.