Hello from Tokyo. Yeah across the water in Japan.

Hi everyone,
Just in case you're wondering I am not Japanese but 'British / limey' whatever, living here in Tokyo. Its been my dream to build a kit car for many many years and love the 33 Hot Rod. Yeah, American car, British builder living in Tokyo. I thought I'd get the ball rolling by introducing myself and hoping there are lots of people willing to give advice on a build. Unfortunately it looks like I'm going to be doing a lot of shipping from the USA to Tokyo to make this happen. Been tinkering with British cars for quite a few years, but am a bit lost when it comes to the USA stuff. Lots of 3D design and manufacturing skills that I hope will help me with the look of the car.
Thanks for any advice and help you guys can give me when I take the plunge!
Regards,
Darren

Well, having worked on numerous British cars over the years you're in for a treat! These cars are easy to work on, always run in damp, cold conditions and can actually be fitted with heaters that work (rather than just buzzing with limited air flow). You will find all the help and assistance you need (and more) on this site. Good luck and looking forward to your progress. I guess as you Brit's say " Cheerio ".

Welcome Darren!
This forum is priceless, lots of help available from some very knowledgeable builders.
Look forward to hearing more about your planning and eventual build.

Steve

Hello Darren, and welcome to the madness.

Just curious, but where in Tokyo do you live? Back in the dark ages (90's) I took 8-9 extended trips to Japan and am slightly familiar with Tokyo, at least as it was then.

IIRC, Japan has fairly draconian laws and harsh taxes concerning cars. Have you looked at the registration process for replica cars? Also, I suggest you connect with the Aussie builders for advice on RHD modifications, importing parts and other challenges. They may also have information on alternate sources, and as a bonus, they (almost) speak your language.

Another random thought: Just because you are building an American car doesn't mean you have to use an American engine. I know of several Hot Rods that were built with BMW engines and running gear. In one case the builder even incorporated an M3 IRS into his Hot Rod. You might consider using a Japanese engine if it helps with the registration / tax issue and if it won't ruin the "look" of the car. In my mind, the ability to customize these cars is a major feature. You are only limited by your imagination and bank account.

One word of caution: building a FFR car is addictive! Several builders' wives refer to the car as "the mistress" - the project consumes that much time and attention. That said, everyone on the forums is enthusiastic about building and driving the cars, and most are generous with their advice and support. Feel free to reach out with any questions at any time.

Cheers! Keith HR #894

Welcome to the club! Doing a 78 Spitfire resto currently along with the coup

Hi Keith,
Sorry for the delay replying to your message. Thanks for the advice re Australian builders etc. I live in Kasai, out to the East of Tokyo, about 10 minutes from Disneyland. Nice area, lots of parks etc but as many in Tokyo places are like living in a shoebox (Will need to rent a garage space or buy a house out of Tokyo with garage space).
As for the draconian laws here in Japan, it looks like a bit of a nightmare from here, not only the laws but the language issues too. With regards to the engine issues, don't laugh but I am considering going electric for the build. Another option I am considering is actually building it in the UK and then importing it to Japan if it is too much hassle to sort here in Tokyo.
Anyway, thanks for the advice and will continue to investigate,
Regards,
Darren

Sorry, I don't mean to discourage you, only to advise you to investigate the registration and tax laws before committing your money. There was a builder (in Belgium or the Netherlands IIRC?) who built a Hot Rod and then spent several years and lots of Euros trying to register the car. He ended up shipping the car to England where he finally got it registered. If you spend extended periods in England, it would probably be an easier place to build a car. There have been a few FFR cars built there that I recall, and certainly a very active amateur builder community. Just remember that the build will take hundreds of hours - especially if you stray from the conventional path and go electric or hybrid. Good luck with your project, however you choose to go ahead. Regards, Keith HR #894