Hi,
I have just purchased a Hiace custom camper 3litre auto diesel. I would like to know some info as I do not have an owners manual. Does anyone know where I can get one. I have tied ebay but they do not seem to cover my model. I have an ect power button on the dashboard, what does this do? I have a red button on the front of the auto shift box, what for? Does it matter if I always use overdrive? and what are the service intervals and when would the timing belt need changing. I think that covers it. I can get 23 mpg from her, is this about average? I will go and have a chat with my local dealer next week but I would be happy to here from anyone who has the answers.
cheers, Martin (IMG:style_emoticons/default/gitara.gif)

Hi Martin,

The ECT stands for Electronically Controlled Transmission. If you push it in , you should get an indication on your dash that you are in Power mode. That will mke the trasmission kick down sooner, and take loger to shift up. You will use more fuel in that mode. The red Button is for manipulating the transmission during repair/while not driving. Heavy overdrive use is not a problem, as far as I know. Timing belt is about every 90,000 km or so I think. 23 MPG seems beleivable, if that is mixed or city. Highway should maybe be better, especially at low altitude.

Cheers,
Mark

Thanks Pard,
Not used to so many fancy buttons.
regards, Martin

The problem with a lot of the higher end Toyota vans is that the manuals were often only produced in Japanese, and quickly discarded by English speaking owners who found the symbols unintelligible!

The reason being is that the these vans were originally only destined for the JDM - Japanese Domestic Market.

Hence why you will probably also find labels and information tags inside the van that are totally in Japanese.

There's not a lot you need to really know about these vans - and anything you do need can be answered by one of us here who have been there, done that, and found the solution!

Hi,
Yes, i have seen the owners mauals on ebay for about 20 english pounds. Not worth bothering with. I have found out the tyre pressures and the timing belt needs changing after 100,000 kms (sticker on engine). The only information I need now is the service schedule, anyone know please.
cheers, Martin (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beer.gif)

Engine oil and filter every 5000 km.

I can't stress highly enough the need for regular oil changes. Particularly for diesels.

Good to do the air filter at the same time (although it does not need to be done as often) but a clogged filter, especially if you drive dusty roads, will decrease engine performance and increase fuel bills.

Don't forget the fuel filter - change it anywhere between 10000 to 15000 km.

If it's an auto it's worth changing the trans fluid once a year to keep it in top condition.