Hello, I am new to forums I hope im not posting in the wrong section but I have recently purchased a Diesel 80 series from Japan and I am looking to drive it in California. However all the threads I have read kind of gave conflicting answers. From what I have seen you can import it and have the broker take care of it for you, but from there do you need to do another smog check? I know you'll need to do the VIN verification and then take it to the DMV. Some threads have said that the Pre 1997 Diesel method doesn't work anymore so that's why I had some concerns. I have also considered an LLC in Montana but any input would be greatly appreciated.
How to register my 1992 FJ80 1HD-T
- Thread starter CO2Enjoyer
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On my fj60 I had to take it to the dmv so they could check all fed devices were in place and check the vin. Then had to smog it and they gave me my plates. But that was a gas cruiser. I would imagine its the same process with out the smog.
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I assume they didnt care about the 25 year rule or anything like that makes you exempt from it?
PNWTreeOctopus
SILVER Star
Did your importer not set you up to successfully get that rig registered? That's a potentially complicated problem in my mind. I do wish you the best of luck, but this seems like you may be facing some serious headaches to get plates on your 80. Can you get it released from customs without registering it?
Whats the plan for when it arrives? Isnt this the sort of thing to get lined up before you buy a rig overseases and try and import it? Or is this standard practive? Not trying to be a dick, but I'm honestly just confused--the whole importing a rhd 80 thing has always seemed expensive and complex.
The only way you will get California plates at this moment would be to use the carb emissions laboratory. It will about $10k. Some people do it. There was an 80 at our last get together and he went through that process.
I have a 96 that imported and registered in South Dakota.
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There are many importers that just bring in the vehicle and the rest will be up to you. Diffrent states have different set of rules.
I personally would not do a rhd. Wouldn't want to be passing on 2 lane roads and not be able to see. That's just me.
Whoever’s on the import papers has to register it first then it can be sold to somebody else, federal rules.
There’s a whole thread on importing. It makes the rules pretty clear.
There’s a whole thread on importing. It makes the rules pretty clear.
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This is honestly the easiest route it seems ill just go with that thank you.If you think you’re getting California plates for it you’re mistaken
Best to get Montana LLC and put Montana plates on it.
Yes. Customs doesn't care if you register it