I would not worry about japanese parts drying up. If you cant get from the manufacturer there will alway be hight quality pirate parts available. You still get genuine parts for 30+ year old toyotas
Hi,
I have two old Toyotas that were never meant to be in Aus, and my mother worked for Toyota in engineering for 15 years. So I have a bit of knowledge on this.
Basic service parts are generally not a problem and items like pistons rings and bearings are always easy to get. It's the odd electronic bits and small forgotten pieces that are hard to get.
For example, I cannot get a timing chain slipper for the 18RG twin cam engine in my JDM Corona Hardtop anywhere. Also, the front brake pads took nine weeks to arrive from Japan as they are unique to that car and the Celica GT. I cannot get any non-genuine ones at all.
Similarly, my MR2 is one of the first ones sold in the USA, and has a unique airflow meter and throttle position sensor, used on that model only, when factory cruise control was fitted.
My local Toyota dealer is useless for import parts, it's all too hard. I have to order unique parts from a dealer in Sydney via a contact that is willing to help.
All I'm saying, is if you choose an engine for a conversion, make sure you can get all the bits you might need. Imagine ten years later having a non-running car just because you can't get a certain sensor.
I can't decide on the conversion question myself.
On one hand the engineering challenge behind a conversion appeals and it provides modern car economy, drivability and reliability.
On the other hand, unless a rod is poking out the block or similar major disaster, an A-series running carbs will usually limp all the way home.A breakdown in a modern car usually means a tow-truck is needed.
Oh the irony. To carry the family safely around in Aus I rely on a modern 4x4. Yet if I was travelling from Vladivostock to London, I'd prefer the Moke or Beetle. Both are more likely to break down than my modern Nissan. But I know I could fix most things at the roadside.
Cheers,