CARFIX

Toyota Town Ace 5K Bus (1996–1998)

The TOYOTA TOWN ACE is a popular choice in New Zealand, appreciated for its practicality and reliability as a workhorse and a comfortable family vehicle. Often converted into campervans, these vans are a familiar sight on Kiwi roads. This vehicle wiki provides essential information to help you maintain your TOWN ACE and keep it running efficiently.

Parts for the Toyota Town Ace 5K Bus

Known issues

Owners should be aware of potential issues that can arise with the TOYOTA TOWN ACE, particularly as mileage increases:
• Overheating: Keep a close watch on engine temperature, especially when towing. Addressing overheating issues promptly will prevent more serious damage.
• Front Suspension Wear: Be prepared for potential premature wear of the front suspension bushings. Regular inspections and timely replacements can improve ride quality and handling.
• Rust: Pay particular attention to the condition of the lower body panels, where rust can develop over time.

WOF tips

When preparing your TOYOTA TOWN ACE for its Warrant of Fitness (WOF) in New Zealand, be mindful of these common inspection points:
• Steering Play: Be prepared for checks on excessive play in steering components.
• Rear Suspension Mounts: Be aware that corrosion around the rear suspension mounts is a common WOF failure point.
• Fluid Leaks: Be certain to address any oil leaks from the engine or transmission before the inspection.

About the Toyota Town Ace 5K Bus

The TOYOTA TOWN ACE has become a mainstay for many small businesses. Its versatility and rugged reliability ensure that owners can get the job done, day in and day out.

Maintenance Matters

Regular maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan of your TOWN ACE. Consider these components that may require attention on your TOWN ACE:
• Front Suspension: Keep an eye on the control arm bushings and shock absorber bushings, as these are known to wear. Replacement suspension bushes for the front control arm (upper) are available as well - also check the front shock absorber's upper bushings. Check the front bump stop.
• Engine Care: Regular spark plug replacement helps ensure optimal engine performance. The cylinder head and cylinder head gasket should be inspected for leaks or damage during servicing. It's also advisable to check the oil seal on the crankshaft (front/timing side).
• Braking System: Inspect the brake pads (front), brake shoes (rear), brake drums (rear), and rear brake hoses regularly for wear and damage.
• Gaskets and Seals: If experiencing leaks or engine issues, inspect the head set/valve regrind gasket set.
• Starting System: Keep the starter motor in optimal condition for easy starting.
• Rear Suspension: Routine checks of the rear shock absorber upper and lower suspension bush set will maintain comfort and handling.

Questions owners ask

What are the common WOF failure points for a 1996-1998 Toyota Town Ace in New Zealand?
When preparing your Toyota Town Ace for its Warrant of Fitness (WOF) in New Zealand, pay close attention to excessive play in steering components, corrosion around the rear suspension mounts (a common failure point), and any fluid leaks from the engine or transmission. Addressing these issues before inspection will help ensure a smooth WOF pass.
Where can I get front suspension control arm bushings for my 1996-1998 Toyota Town Ace in NZ?
CARFIX stocks replacement suspension bushes for the front control arm (upper) for your 1996-1998 Toyota Town Ace. We also have front shock absorber upper bushings available. Check our website or contact us for specific part numbers and availability.
What maintenance should I prioritise to keep my Toyota Town Ace running well?
To maximise the lifespan of your Toyota Town Ace, focus on regular maintenance. This includes inspecting front suspension components like control arm and shock absorber bushings, checking the front bump stop, and replacing spark plugs regularly for optimal engine performance. Also, inspect the cylinder head and gasket for leaks, and the crankshaft front oil seal. Don't forget to regularly check front brake pads, rear brake shoes, rear brake drums, and rear brake hoses.
My 1996-1998 Toyota Town Ace is overheating, what should I check?
Overheating is a common issue with the Toyota Town Ace, especially when towing. Promptly address any signs of overheating to prevent serious engine damage. While the specific cause can vary, it's crucial to have the cooling system inspected by a professional to diagnose and repair the problem.
Are there any common rust spots on the Toyota Town Ace I should be aware of?
Yes, owners of the Toyota Town Ace should pay particular attention to the lower body panels, as rust can commonly develop in these areas over time. Regular inspection and addressing any surface rust early can help prevent more significant corrosion.
How often should I service my 1996-1998 Toyota Town Ace?
The recommended service interval for your Toyota Town Ace is every 10,000km. Adhering to this schedule will help ensure optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle.