The TOYOTA Master Ace and Town Ace are compact vans that have proven popular in New Zealand as budget-friendly family vehicles and reliable workhorses for small businesses. Often converted into basic campervans, these vans offer a practical and versatile solution. This guide provides key information for owners, covering common issues, WOF (Warrant of Fitness) insights, and maintenance advice.
Owners of the TOYOTA MASTER ACE / TOWN ACE TD should be aware of the following potential problems: • Head gasket failures (especially on the 2C-T diesel engine) • Rust in the sills, wheel arches, and around window seals. • Overheating issues, particularly in hot climates if the cooling system is neglected. • Premature wear of front suspension components and steering linkage.
WOF tips
When taking your TOYOTA MASTER ACE / TOWN ACE TD for a WOF in New Zealand, pay close attention to these common check points: • Excessive play in steering components. • Corrosion around the rear leaf spring mounts, windscreen seals and body seams. • Oil leaks from the diesel engine, particularly around the rear differential pinion seal. • Ensure brake components are in good working condition and front brake pad thickness is adequate.
About the Toyota Master Ace TD
The Toyota Town Ace/Master Ace presents some typical problem areas for its owners in New Zealand.
Engine & Cooling: Overheating can be a problem, especially in hotter climates or if the cooling system isn't well-maintained. Keep an eye on coolant levels and consider a radiator flush as part of your regular maintenance. Head gasket failures are also known to occur, particularly on the 2C-T diesel engine.
Steering & Suspension: Premature wear in the front suspension components and steering linkage is common, especially given the load-carrying nature of these vans. Be attentive to any play in the steering or unusual noises from the front end. Steering idler arm wear is also a noted issue. Address throttle position sensor issues for consistent engine performance.
Body & Chassis: Rust is a significant concern, particularly in the sills, wheel arches, roof gutters and around window seals. Regular washing and rust prevention measures can help extend the life of the bodywork. Fatigue on the rear leaf spring is also a common issue.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance including rear brake shoe and hose replacement and suspension bushing maintenance are important. Thermostat and thermostat housing gaskets should be regularly changed to prevent overheating. Change your stop light switch to ensure safety.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common issues to look out for with a 1985-1991 Toyota Master Ace or Town Ace in New Zealand?
Owners of the Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace from 1985-1991 should be aware of potential head gasket failures, especially on the 2C-T diesel engine. Rust is also a significant concern, particularly in the sills, wheel arches, and around window seals. Overheating issues can occur if the cooling system isn't well-maintained, and premature wear of front suspension components and steering linkage is common.
What should I pay close attention to when getting a WOF for my Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace in NZ?
For your Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace WOF in New Zealand, pay close attention to excessive play in steering components, corrosion around the rear leaf spring mounts, windscreen seals, and body seams. Also, check for oil leaks from the diesel engine, particularly around the rear differential pinion seal, and ensure brake components are in good working condition with adequate front brake pad thickness.
My Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace is overheating. What could be the cause?
Overheating in your 1985-1991 Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace can be a problem, especially if the cooling system isn't well-maintained. Common causes include low coolant levels, a blocked radiator, or a faulty thermostat. Head gasket failures, particularly on the 2C-T diesel engine, can also lead to overheating. Regular maintenance, including radiator flushes and checking thermostat and thermostat housing gaskets, is crucial.
Where can I get replacement suspension parts for my 1985-1991 Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 290 SKUs for the 1985-1991 Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace. You can find replacement suspension components, including parts for the front suspension and steering linkage, through CARFIX. Given the common issue of premature wear in these areas, it's a good idea to address any play in the steering or unusual noises from the front end promptly.
How often should I service my Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace?
The recommended service interval for your Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace is every 10,000km. Regular maintenance is crucial, including checking and replacing rear brake shoes and hoses, and maintaining suspension bushings. Also, consider regular replacement of the thermostat and thermostat housing gaskets to prevent overheating.
I've noticed rust on my Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace. Where are the common areas for rust on these vans?
Rust is a significant concern for the 1985-1991 Toyota Master Ace/Town Ace. Common areas where rust appears include the sills, wheel arches, roof gutters, and around window seals. Regular washing and rust prevention measures are highly recommended to extend the life of the bodywork.