New to Kei Trucks - A few questions

Long post alert - I wanted to do my due dillegence & research before posting

I am just recently getting into Kei Trucks. I would like to get one, one day, provided I fall upon the right one for sale. I wouldn’t be getting one for a few years at least.

I am most likely only interested in the Honda Acty or Suzuki Carry, as I know the Subaru Sambar has issues when it comes to automatic transmission models (I would need an automatic). I am not too familiar with the Daihatsu Hijet; however, I know parts are not easily available for that model, but I would consider it if people here have had good experiences with it.

I do have a few questions & concerns, which I will list below. Any & all advice you can give would be much appreciated.

Maintenance:

First off, I want to say I am not a trained mechanic. My experience comes from working with my dad on his ’01 Jeep Cherokee. I am generally ok with oil changes, filling the coolant & wiper fluid, replacing headlights (although I don’t know anything about replacing them with these trucks).

However, I am not really ok with the internal workings maintenance/ repairs, including; - Replacing the timing belt (does it have to be replaced every 3,000 miles?) - Engine work - Transmission work - If needed, fixing radiator

***I do not have a lift; I only have ramps & tire blocks. I have very basic equipment; will this be an issue?

Insurance: (I live in MA)

If you live in MA and have a Kei Truck, what is your experience regarding the insurance process (registration, inspection, etc)? If you don’t, what was your experience with insurance?

I have a great insurance plan for my daily driver, I do not want to leave that insurance plan & I’d rather not open another insurance plan somewhere else. This may ultimately determine whether I get one or not.

Other Questions & Concerns:

  • Parts availability – what is it like for your model & where do you shop?

  • Major issues – general & model specific?

  • Reliability – how reliable are these vehicles, in your experience?

  • What is your overall experience?

  • Not being a trained mechanic, would this be a smart investment/ hobby?

  • Are there any common American auto parts that work with these trucks? (Oil filter, air filter, etc)

  • Any other comments you have are appreciated

  • What resources do you use for research, parts, etc?

  • What was the purchasing experience like? I would probably get one on Facebook Marketplace, as I want to drive one first to see if I even like it. What do I have to look for?

  • They are old vehicles, what should I inspect once I get a chance to look at one? Are there any concerns with the 20+ years old age and components?

Apologies for the long post, I just want to get all my questions and concerns out now. Once again, thank you for all the help.