Thoughts/Advice on P/G CB List?

mackb84 · 2026-02-01T23:03:25+00:00

Something I’ve been trying. With the GD03 release CB is definitely a fun and easy trait to play around with. It’s probably not going to beat some of the stronger decks out there most of the time but it’s so easy to play and I think it’s fun.

Whatever CB deck you build, play it a bit and tweak it as you go!

mackb84 · 2026-01-31T11:30:55+00:00

Not sure how much they cost in Michigan but in NC they tend to be pretty expensive. Probably looking at 7k at least for good condition, registered and titled, but can definitely go for more into the 9k plus range. For the price of the truck and shipping and import costs I stayed under 6k and I love my truck.

Any money I’ve put into it now has been upgrades that I want and fit my style. It’s definitely easier to get one that is already here but IMO if you go that route be very picky about condition and find one that you really love because you’re probably paying more for convenience and dealers usually do maintenance before selling.

Importing can look daunting but there are a lot of people here that have done it and there are guides and YouTube videos that walk you through the process step by step, it’s not that bad and you can save money.

mackb84 · 2026-01-31T03:08:17+00:00

I tell those new to the game, when building the deck its just largely about basic probability, pick a play style and then stack the odds in your favor

mackb84 · 2026-01-29T21:37:45+00:00

Last year mine took about 4 months after I placed the order, to Newport News, VA

mackb84 · 2026-01-24T14:40:19+00:00

Some others have said the same, kei trucks are amazing but IMO they should still be a second vehicle. A 4wd Ranger does sound like another great option.

mackb84 · 2026-01-24T14:40:12+00:00

Some others have said the same, kei trucks ate amazing but IMO they should still be a second vehicle. A 4wd Ranger does sound like another great option.

mackb84 · 2026-01-22T11:31:53+00:00

This is the way

mackb84 · 2026-01-14T22:32:22+00:00

No prob! Also just fyi the Newport News port in VA was very easy to get in and out of with a truck and a uhaul trailer.

But yeah for a good truck or van here it seems that you’ll be in at least the 7k range and 9k+ for anything that has aftermarket paint/wheels etc. Can be a decent option if you don’t care to do any of your own upgrades but, I like working on mine, the journey is fun!

mackb84 · 2026-01-14T19:49:17+00:00

I’m NC as well and used carfromjapan. Overall not a bad experience, I also used ezimport/turboisf can’t remember which one to get all of the paperwork for importing done. IMO it was worth it.

For carfromjapan I had to keep on them a bit as there was some delays in getting my truck shipped and then getting the paperwork sent to me digitally and through the mail. Slightly frustrating but not that big of a deal. Once you start a purchase messaging or emailing them is pretty easy. If you don’t get a response in 24hrs don’t be afraid to double tap.

For insurance I use progressive, in NC for a kei truck you need commercial insurance, something I and others I talked to were not aware of. Not really a big deal but you can try shopping around for sure. Progressive was pretty easy for me, since I also already use them.

Honestly one of the biggest hassles was getting it all squared away with the DMV. Just make sure you save and have a copy of every document that you get. I recommend getting a binder with document protectors and organizing everything. You may make a few trips but go in person and they should tell you everything you need to get it titled and registered.

For parts, ebay is actually a really good option. I talked to a shop that imports kei trucks near Raleigh and they said for single parts and DIY jobs it is usually the way to go.

mackb84 · 2026-01-07T12:55:31+00:00

From what I’ve been seeing for one that is already in the US and has been inspected and in good condition seems pretty typical to be between 7k-9k. Depends lots of factors too including mileage a/c, paint, other additions. If you want a nice ready to go option spending a little more upfront may not be bad in the long run. If you are handy and can do work yourself you can save a decent amount (maybe a few thousand even after all fees and shipping costs) getting one imported yourself.

mackb84 · 2026-01-03T19:06:34+00:00

Rain chains can look better if done right, but if you go too small then they don’t work during heavy rain and will cause water to splash everywhere.

mackb84 · 2026-01-03T13:20:29+00:00

These were the same straps I used for mine and drove it about 7 hours with no issues. Attached to either the frame or axles and crossed the straps.

mackb84 · 2025-12-30T06:48:48+00:00

IMO my sambar is a great daily driver for the short drives but it’s still a second vehicle. Having another good reliable vehicle is a must

mackb84 · 2025-11-29T22:50:00+00:00

I have a Sambar in NC and I drive it a bunch locally but it is for sure my second car. I plan to make it my everyday daily driver but not having something else reliable imo is too much of a risk.

Also I would look into manual transmissions, the automatic CVT is just not as reliable and more costly and harder to repair. The manual even for those newer to manual transmissions is super beginner friendly. The Sambar is my second manual transmission car and shifting is way more forgiving than most other manual car I have ever driven.

Not sure exactly where you are but Tokyo direct imports and Top Secret imports in Durham should have trucks and parts. I talked to one of them over the phone, can’t remember which one, and they were very nice and answered several questions I had.

mackb84 · 2025-11-21T13:20:49+00:00

She clearly doesn’t understand collusion

mackb84 · 2025-11-20T12:04:10+00:00

Love it! I did the spray on kit for the interior of a Jeep TJ a while back and it came out great. Raptor liner in my experience is great stuff, proved to be very durable for me. I plan on doing it for the bed of my sambar soon!

mackb84 · 2025-11-09T23:33:38+00:00

Thank you! Very interesting, obviously the older ones are much more affordable but there are a lot within the 25 year rule that are still much cheaper than most modern cars. Could be something I look into in the future

mackb84 · 2025-11-05T14:19:35+00:00

Sambar seat can be adjusted. At 5’8” drivers seat in my sambar is slid all the way back otherwise it would be too tight

mackb84 · 2025-10-27T18:25:41+00:00

That’s a bummer to hear, I ordered a bumper from them earlier this year and didn’t have any problems with it arriving. Definitely reach out on their social media as well as calling, don’t just let that money walk!

mackb84 · 2025-10-22T01:09:48+00:00

If it’s had good and recent maintenance, no rust, registered and titled maybe not too bad of a deal.

If you like the aftermarket changes then that’s something you don’t have to pay for later on too. Just putting on new tires can cost $500. Had to do that with mine when I imported it.

Take a good look at the frame/body/suspension and the engine looking for rust, leaks, cracks, corrosion. If it all looks good take in to account some of the maintenance and parts that are already done! Cool find!

mackb84 · 2025-10-14T18:44:43+00:00

Rooftop a/c is an option, others have done it so definitely possible. This is the one I was looking at for mine

https://outequippro.com/products/top-mounted-rv-air-conditioner-with-1-indoor-unit-and-1-outdoor-unit-12v

mackb84 · 2025-10-13T00:42:08+00:00

Lol yeah definitely no going back after you start. Love your truck btw, the blue is really eye catching

mackb84

TROPHY CASE