Hawaii Recon Information, Q&A Thread

If you're running stock suspension and all you have are larger wheels and tires then you don't need recon. However, they do have some rules. Here's a link to the recon FAQs on the city and county website: https://www.honolulu.gov/cms-csd-me...constructed-vehicle-inspection.html#reconreqs

Here's what it says about wheels, tires & flares:

What types of modifications do not require a Reconstructed Vehicle Permit?
The most common modifications that do not require a Reconstructed Vehicle Permit are:

• Installation of aftermarket wheels and tires.
  • Tire tread shall not protrude beyond the outer edge of the fender when looking down vertically from a position directly above outer edge of the fender (if protrudes, fender flares need to be installed).
  • There must be ample clearance (full turn to full turn) between the tire and the vehicle's frame, suspension and body.
    Note: The tires must be U.S. DOT approved for street use and meet or exceed the vehicle load rating.
• Installation of body kits or fender flares that does not change the overall model identity. Note: Bumper covers must have supports and impact pad installed.

 

Thanks for the information. The link didn't work for me though. So I'm guessing if you don't go for recon and are deficient in the above, then they would indicate during safety check inspections?

 

Yes, the safety check inspector will let you know what's wrong when or if they fail you.

 

So if I extend the mudflaps should be alright? Do you still have to Make a appointment?

 

I'm thinking you correct your mud flaps and you should be good, but it really will depend on the inspector when the threads are that close to the edge of the fender/flare. If the inspector is having a bad day they could fail you.

No appointment needed. However, if they happen to be super busy and you get there late you could get turned away......unlikely they'll be that busy, but I guess it's possible. If you make an appt you'll get served even if they're busy.

 

Mine looked like that and mine didn't pass. It all depends on the inspector you get and the mood he's in. They can be total asshats if they want to cause you can't call them out on their decision since you gotta go back regardless. You make waves and they just make it harder for you to pass. I was told 3 of my 4 tires would pass but the passenger side rear is sticking out and that a lot get failed for that cause all Tacos have the "crooked rear end". Stock suspension with aftermarket rims and tires no need recon, it's a safety check issue if they stick out

 

Sound like hit and miss then. Lol.

 

Anybody know if you can pass recon with sway bars removed?

 

Yes, you can pass.

 

Thanks for the advice gang. I just mcguyvered my mud flaps and it passed with flying colors.

 

@TONYCANNOLI
1. Only rear mud flaps are required for Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspection (AKA "Safety") and Recon. However, the 3rd gens off the lots do not have them as they are deemed sufficient enough coverage. Additionally, some inspection stations may question it and fail you. The inspections are very subjective.


2. If you did not modify your truck's suspension (lift or lower), or you didn't change your tire/wheel size significantly, and your tires are within the fenders; you shouldn't need Recon. But, the best thing to do is call the Recon station to confirm and read the regulations published.


3. License plates are required to be visible and mounted on the front and rear of the vehicle without any cover. However, I have seen people place them in their windshield or have a cover over their plates. There are others who zip tie them behind the grill or on their grill or bumper. If you do not want to drill holes, here are a couple of options from fellow TW members:
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...rill-license-plate-bracket-35-shipped.429680/

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/true-no-drill-front-license-plate-bracket.307958/


4. Many folks use the plates in the rear for the PMVI sticker, as well as Recon and/or Kaena Point stickers. @tx novice gives a deal to TW members at his shop, or you can pick one up at an auto parts shop like AutoZone or O'Reilly. Depending on the style, you may have to be cautious to not block the license plate lights.

 

I'm not going to read through 50 pages of comments so maybe someone here can answer my question quickly before I do HOURS of research. I'm going to be moving to Hawaii soon. Truck currently has ext. travel coilovers, AAL, no mud flaps, no front license plate, and 3rd break light on camper isnt wired. I will keep my truck registered in my home of record. But will I have to change a bunch of stuff to 1 make it legal for Hawaii roads and 2 what will i need to do to be able to offroad.

 

- You will need rear mud flaps
- You will need to mount your front license plate
- I'm not sure about camper brake lights

 

He will not need a front mounted plate if it’s not required in his registered state.

Pretty sure the camper light has to be wired. Borrow mud flaps from someone for recon and safety.

I imagine you could make some quick friends if people wanted gear from Mobtown and you included it in your HHG tho

 

Ok sweet thanks for the info guys. Haha yah I mean if someone was dying for some stuff from mobtown I could drive down and pick it up for them. Just throw in a tank of gas and I’m happy. Sure that would beat paying an expensive ass shipping charge. But you’d have to wait a while.

 

Pretty used to waiting out here. We’d just be happy to share the same free shipping offers that everyone in the mainland gets. And sometimes Amazon doesn’t ship certain items.

Also, those Mobtown tailgate reinforcement plates and caps are solid. Hope some of the guys jumps on your offer. Well worth it.

 

yah just keep in mind I have a little over a month before my HHG ship. soooo if something has a really long wait time you might not get it from me.

Yah i have been looking up shipping for when i move out there and I wasn't to thrilled with wait times and cost. sooooo not 100% sure if ill be getting truck parts while Im there. might just save and get all the parts when i come back to the main land

 

Ok everyone as talked about in the comments I started the Group buy. 1st come 1st serve. https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/oaho-mobtown-off-road-group-buy.514283/

 

So after reading this... I am moving to oahu in like 5 months.... will I not be able to drive my truck cause it will be lifted on 33s?

 

You’ll be fine as long as the contact patch of your tires are covered by fender flares (check pics thru the thread) and you have read mud flaps.