Restoring vintage 25 year old vehicles is no small feat, especially when the goal is to revive them to their original, pristine condition. At Japan Carrier, we specialize in vehicle restoration, from sourcing rare parts to expertly managing every stage of the repair and export process. One recent project involved a well-loved 1998 Daihatsu Atrai RT Limited, a kei van that had seen better days but was just waiting to be restored to its former glory.
When this Atrai arrived in our yard, it was in need of serious attention. Graded at 3 by the auction house, it bore the scars of years under the intense Japanese sun. The roof showed significant paint failure, with a sun-scorched clear coat that had left it dull and lifeless. The left-hand rear passenger door was heavily dented, beyond repair, and needed a complete replacement. Adding to the challenge, the window visors were sun-brittle and discolored, while the original RT Limited decals, which distinguished this particular trim, had faded and cracked over time.
Restoration Process by Japan Carrier
Thanks to our extensive logistics and third-party network, Japan Carrier was able to source a new door that perfectly matched the van's unique slide doors. We removed the damaged door and replaced it with a new one, repainting it to blend seamlessly with the original bodywork. Our team also meticulously sanded and repainted the roof, restoring its sleek, fresh look. Although the original window visors were no longer available to purchase, removing them improved the vehicle's overall appearance and gave it a cleaner, more modern look.
More importantly, we were able to network a completely factory new set of RT Limited stickers !
Just look how refreshed this exterior is looking!
The final touch was one of the most satisfying aspects of the project, recreating the OEM RT Limited stickers. By connecting with a skilled shop specializing in custom decal production, we brought back the iconic branding that defines this rare trim. Once applied, these details helped restore the Atrai’s authentic RT Limited look, reminiscent of when it first hit the roads over two decades ago.
Bringing Japan’s Classic Kei Cars to the World
Our expertise in vehicle restoration and export allows us to revive and deliver Japan's classic cars to new owners worldwide. This 1998 Daihatsu Atrai is just one example of how Japan Carrier not only meets the unique requests of car enthusiasts but also preserves the heritage of Japan’s beloved kei cars. Soon, this beautifully restored van will be on its way to a new home, thanks to our commitment to quality and Japan Carrier's dedication to ensuring each export meets our high standards.
Whether it’s for vehicle restoration, custom parts sourcing, or export services, Japan Carrier is proud to bring vintage Japanese cars back to life and into the hands of collectors and enthusiasts across the globe.
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