So I’m planning to move to Japan in 2023 and am working to get things in order now, however I’ve got one big hurdle that’s worrying me.
I own a 1982 Volvo 242 Turbo that’s pretty heavily modified (engine swapped to another turbo Volvo motor, suspension with extra steering angle, welded differential, ect) that I’m planning to bring with me. I understand that it will be very expensive to do this and I would be better off not doing so, but putting that aside I’d like to know if it’s even feasible.
I have a basic understanding of Shaken, however I’m struggling to find information about the “custom” registration I’ve heard whispers of in the shadows. Is there anyone here that might be able to provide, or point me in the direction of, information about registering a modified vehicle? Would I need to completely put everything back to stock, or could I get through inspection with things like the welded diff and swapped engine (which is a 2.3 liter rather than the vin indicated 2.1)?
1 comment
I am in the process of importing my v8 swapped car as well, and ive been told by several people its going to be nearly impossible to get it street-legal unless i’m willing to mod it for legality.
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I also have taken a few cars thru inspection on my own so I am familiar with the process
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The motor does not matter as long as it passes modification inspection (ie if you have any aftermarket parts they will want to see the Japanese certificate of approval and such, exp exhaust)
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Then you must pass a speed test so if your speedo is not accurate you will have issues (ie non OEM trans or speed sensors)l be difficult to pass. I even failed with a stock exhaust on my motorcycle, so we had to lean it out with a wet towel over the intake filter lol
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Then you must pass a speed test so if your speedo is not accurate you will have issues (ie non-oem trans or speed sensors)
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They do not actually test your alignment but if it visually is difficult they will fail it, (ie tons of wheel Ackerman or camber)
It’s going to be easier to pay someone to do all this, and it’s pretty difficult if you don’t speak Japanese. It’s not impossible but unless you have thousands sunk into this or emotional attachment, it’s probably easier to get a better car here. It’s going to be a fair bit of cash.
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You must also show things like proof of parking, paid road tax, CI, and such which are pretty easy to figure out.