1987 Tin Top in Pittsfield, Massachusetts

Asking Price: $6,600

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For sale is my 1987 Suzuki Samurai tintop. Engine swapped to VW 1.6 turbo diesel (IDI) about 5000 miles ago by the previous owner. Engine starts easily and has tons of torque across the power band. The transmission shifts smooth and clutch engages well to hold the extra power. The truck itself has only 50,000 miles.

Has many mods to make it much more capable offroad, like the 5″ lift with Old Man Emu springs, Tracker diffs (for better crawl ratio) with ratcheting lockers front and rear, 31″ mud terrain tires, custom steel bumpers and 5000lb winch. A big aluminum radiator and heavy duty fan keep the engine cool on the road or trail.

The electrical system has been upgraded with a 60 amp GM 1-wire alternator, “clicky starter mod” custom fuse panel with heavy duty wiring and relays for the fan and ultra bright H4-halogen headlights. Brake lights and turn signals are LED with the correct flasher to be bright yet draw less power.

The seats have been replaced with more comfortable seats from a Civic, although the rear seat is missing. There is an aftermarket sunroof with a removable glass panel. The front doors remove easily too. Gauges for boost, EGT and coolant temp have been installed as well. Unfortunately, there is no radio or speakers.

The front brake pads and calipers were replaced. Then the rear brake shoes and wheel cylinders were replaced, including the right rear wheel bearing and brake backing plate. I also installed a coolant heater to ease starts during cold weather.

Some minor projects remain from making this Samurai 100%. A horn and button need to be wired in. Fender flares probably should be installed. The 3″ exhaust turns out under the driver door, and probably should be extended to the rear bumper. The steering box is a power unit from a Tracker, but the VW engine doesn’t have a PS pump. I think the easiest solution would be an electric PS pump, but the steering is surprisingly easy and tight regardless. A small (coin-sized) hole has developed in the rear floor, but the rest of the body and frame is very solid.

Overall, this is a great and fun little offroader, but I just don’t use it nearly enough. Rather than letting it sit, I’d rather have it go to someone who will use it to it’s fullest. You just don’t see too many of these around any more, and it brings a smile to everyone that sees it. I have tried as best I can to describe this Samurai and all of its good and bad points. If you have any questions, please ask!

Last Updated on November 10, 2024 by SamuraiAds