Buying A Mini Truck For Rural Life

In today’s project, we'll take a look at my 1992 Suzuki Carry 4x4 Japanese mini truck. We’ll talk about how and why I purchased it for working around the farm and firewood yard. Compare the purchase to a UTV or side by side. Go over the upgrades and add ons and look at costs. We’ll also touch on all of the chores and jobs that makes it shine for rural life use.
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#suzukicarry #minitruck #jdm #4x4 #offroad #firewood #firewoodbusiness #splitforce #foxfireprojects #logsplitter #woodsplitter #farm #farmwork #farmchores #hunting #turkeyhunting

[@channel-zp1tg]

As a Japanese, I feel proud that this car is being driven in the United States, thank you😊

[@FoxfireProjects]

It's a great vehicle. Happy to have you watching!

[@Brette_Caldwell]

It really makes you wonder why people spend 18,000 - 35,000 for a side by side. This is much better. Thanks for the video, and all the other ones too.

[@FoxfireProjects]

My thoughts exactly. I had a Polaris RZR when they first came out. They were definitely fun, but just couldn’t justify keeping it around for the cost (and the tiny bed). Always good hearing from you. Appreciate you watching!

[@Brette_Caldwell]

@@FoxfireProjects Appreciate you and your videos. 👍

[@cshi4512]

I'm glad to see the mini-truck video with great success. And the look on their faces after paying for gas is universal!

[@FoxfireProjects]

Definitely shocking when you fill all of the fuel tanks. Thank you so much for watching!

[@ShannonGarland-yu3jk]

That’s a neat little truck. That’s as handy as a pocket on a shirt.

[@FoxfireProjects]

Appreciate it! I had my doubts when I bought it, but it’s really found a place around the farm. Not sure what I’d do without it now. Thanks for watching!

[@user-kl1hu5nw1u]

It's great to be working with a new, wonderful owner overseas after working in Japan!❤

[@FoxfireProjects]

It’s a great truck. Thanks for watching!

[@oby-1607]

Well, you convinced me. I have a buddy who says he can sell me his because he doesn't use it in town. I live on a farm so it could be very useful.

[@FoxfireProjects]

You’ll love it! Don’t be scared to put it to work. Super handy and tough as nails. Appreciate you watching!

[@oby-1607]

@@FoxfireProjects Finally got it. 1992 Suzuki Carry with factory lockers front and back and extended cab. Best part is the left hand drive conversion so the steering wheel and pedals are on the left instead of the right. Would like to get tires like yours one day.

[@FoxfireProjects]

@@oby-1607 Congrats! Sounds like a really nice truck. You will really enjoy it! Let me know if you need any help with it!

[@jeanvaljohn3921]

Of the six channels that I frequent in a week, Each had a couple of tools that I really like. Your mini truck and your knuckle boom truck make my favorites list here.

[@FoxfireProjects]

I believe I’m building quite a list of folks that would call dibs on those trucks 😂

[@rogerl8488]

MAN you have the relaxing life!! Lol. Thank you for video always relaxing when watching you do a great job!!!

[@FoxfireProjects]

Really appreciate the kind words. Glad to have you watching!

[@rhythmandacoustics]

NICE!!!!!!!😀

[@user-ms2he5xl9m]

This truck looks happy for his second life in US.

[@FoxfireProjects]

It sure makes me happy! Thanks for watching!

[@Joeshmofoshoyo]

Excellent video! I Love the bumpers your brother in law made they are awesome. I'm tempted to buy a Kei Truck, I don't own a farm but it might be fun to put around town in.

[@FoxfireProjects]

Thanks so much for the kind words. Go for it, you'll love it!

[@lelandeggleston1041]

Love my mini truck. Getting a dumper made a world of difference as well.

[@FoxfireProjects]

Could never go without mine. Really handy for chores. Thanks so much for watching!

[@mottmusic101]

That’s the second truck you own that I want! Reno

[@Mikes600r]

Yeah I love that little truck! I have been contemplating selling my Honda Pioneer 500 for something like this... but I want to get one with a hydraulic dump bed. I hope I can find one as clean as yours!

[@FoxfireProjects]

I searched long and hard to find one with a dump and AC, but ultimately settled on a clean truck with AC and diff lock. If I had it to do over again, I would’ve gone dump and diff lock. The AC is nice, but I’m in and out of the truck so much I don’t get to enjoy it. Good luck with the search! Appreciate you watching!

[@hollandduck79]

Hello from the Netherlands. here in Europe they were just imported like any other originally Chinese car, here you could just get them in left-hand drive version at the Suzuki dealer, most of them were supplied from the factory with an electric hydraulic dump bed which is a very handy upgrade. there is/was itself a very common version that could tip to 3 sides, these were very popular with small gardeners and public space maintenance companies, because large trucks cannot come here in the sometimes narrow streets, and with municipalities for the city cleaning service . thanks for the video Fox. Sincerely Hollandduck

[@FoxfireProjects]

That’s so cool. I would love to be able to purchase one new. Unfortunately, in the US, imports must be 25 years old to license for road use. The dumping models are really cool. Hope to find one some day. Always great hearing from you. Thanks for watching!

[@hollandduck79]

@@FoxfireProjects is that 25 years old for import from all countries ? because in New-Sealand they now sell new 2022 models with 0mils on the clock, and otherwise import a 25-year-old van, from example, here in Europe, then you have a left-hand drive and dump bed, the choice is large here

[@FoxfireProjects]

@@hollandduck79 25 years old to license for road use. We can import new models here, but only for off-road use. It is really silly, as the new models would be safer. Oh well that is the government for you 😂

[@hollandduck79]

@@FoxfireProjects 👍

[@bcnewfie494]

my neighbors up the road have one with tracks on it, i want one !!

[@FoxfireProjects]

I’ve drooled over the track kits for mine. If I was in a snowier climate, I would have a set for the winter for sure!

[@bwillan]

That is a small but mighty truck. Perhaps a set of air bags for the rear suspension would be in order for those heavier loads. The standard suspension really squats when it's loaded.

[@FoxfireProjects]

Great idea! I'll have to research if anyone makes a bag small enough to fit. It's awful tight under there. Appreciate you watching!

[@phineasNBJ]

@@FoxfireProjects Someone in Australia tried it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pYasqoenf9Fme9k

[@FoxfireProjects]

That's awesome. I wonder if Boss would ship to the states. I'll look into it. Thanks for the headsup!

[@darinr9424]

I had a Cushman version. 5 speed but it was a 4cly... yes I counted the plugs...it spend its life on hospital maintenance. Bought it for 1800..... never touched the thing 3 years later. Sold for 2500... zero rust. And mine was the left hand drive. Not like the Japanese rh ones

[@griffinzoo1]

i watched loads of videos on these trucks and was seriously considering one when we move to thailand soon. Today i had one in front of me in traffic and was surprised as to how small they actually are, absolutely tiny. not much good for anything, im buying a pick up.

[@jeanvaljohn3921]

Another very well done production, answered 8 of my nine questions about the mini . Have you ever checked the miles per gallon stats? Thank you much for your time and effort while sharing your adventures.

[@FoxfireProjects]

Appreciate the kind words Jean! I’ve calculated mine around 34, but hear of lots of folks getting closer to 40. I take care of mine, but definitely don’t baby it. I keep the revs up 😎

[@JimsEquipmentShed]

Mine (Same make, model, and year as his) gets 23.3 MPG but my tires are wider, and mine is mostly commuting back and forth to work.

[@JimsEquipmentShed]

@@FoxfireProjects I think a lot of the 40 MPG people are extremely wishful thinkers.... mine gets 23.3, but my tires are a little wider, and my carb could use adjustment.

[@FoxfireProjects]

I agree. My mileage actually improved with the larger tires. I was pleasantly surprised. Great to hear from you!

[@JimsEquipmentShed]

@@FoxfireProjects have you cross checked your current speedometer reefing with a gps?

[@aldosigmann419]

Great vid, would like to get one meself. Suzuki should hire you for promotions!

[@FoxfireProjects]

Appreciate the kind words. They are tough little trucks. Thanks for watching!

[@OpenAirAdventure]

I love that truck, I'm happy you did a video on it. Very competitive prices compared to utv and seems more useful and comfortable. I would like to know how wide it is and how heavy it is? Thanks for the great content and catch ya on the next one, Kenny

[@FoxfireProjects]

Appreciate it Kenny! I weighed mine at the local fertilizer plant scales. Came in just over 1800 pounds. That was with the bumpers and winch and fuel tank in the bed. I’m not sure on exact width, but I know I’ve squeezed it through a 5’ opening before. Will pull a tape on it and let you know for sure. Thanks for watching!

[@OpenAirAdventure]

@@FoxfireProjects appreciate it, thanks

[@jonathan083]

I have the same minitruck here in Philippines except we got the left hand druve version.

[@FoxfireProjects]

That’s awesome. They are great little trucks. Appreciate you watching!

[@martingravel7984]

Thanks for the video. Where did you purchase your front and rear bumpers?

[@FoxfireProjects]

My brother in law is a welder/fabricator by trade. He built them for me. Not many ready made options out there unfortunately. Thanks so much for watching!

[@levistrnad2965]

where did you get that rear receiver hitch? I like the style of that one how it matches the contour of the rear bed/frame. every other one I can find are universal and seem to conflict with rear suspension shackles and look ugly...

[@FoxfireProjects]

My brother in law is a fabricator by trade. He made both bumpers for me. I agree on the off the shelf choices, most look like generic UTV bumpers made to fit a mini. Thanks for watching!

[@russefarmer]

I love seeing the mini truck do big work. How difficult was the bumper and tow hitch to fabricate and install? I recently bought a mini truck I would like to add a hitch and a bull bar, but it's a little more cluttered than a regular pickup. I'm loving the bumper on your Suziki

[@FoxfireProjects]

The rear bumper was pretty easy. Holes had to be drilled in the frame and inserts installed, and a few shims since the frame was at an odd angle. The front was a little more difficult, as there just isn't much to mount to up there. We ended up running to the sub frame, as well as through the body and plating the back of those attachments, and also using the lower door hinge mounts. So far so good. I think as these things grow in popularity, more aftermarket options will spring up. Thanks for watching!

[@ricksmith-iw2op]

I really like the mini truck. Are parts readily available?

[@FoxfireProjects]

Yes sir, pretty easy. Lots of companies stocking parts in the US. grimports.com has a really good selection as well as a junk yard of used stuff.

[@brokenpinesfarm]

How tall are you and how cramped are you in the cab? Very interested in one!

[@FoxfireProjects]

I’m 6’ even and it’s really not that bad. Once you get in and out a few times, it becomes second nature. Appreciate you watching!

[@EngineerDJ_Julius]

I want a tiny work horse

[@TheCathom]

WHere did you source that bumper? Looks great, i need one

[@FoxfireProjects]

Appreciate the kind words. Unfortunately, the bumpers are one off. My brother in law fabbed them up for me. Thanks for watching!

[@m.cooper1854]

Great video. How are you able to drive it on public roads without a license plate?

[@FoxfireProjects]

Tagged and insured. Legal for use on roads with speed limits 55mph or less. Thanks for watching!

[@user-gs4cq3uk2b]

超実用的で何のムダもない日本の軽トラの良さがアメリカにバレてしまったな。

[@forrestrandle8370]

Where did you get the led tail lights and reverse lights?

[@FoxfireProjects]

Both came from Amazon (though I have not been able to find the tail lights on there recently). We built the bumper so the reverse lights could be recessed (pod lights). Thanks for watching!

[@garynickel648]

Where did you find the D. O. T Tyres?

[@FoxfireProjects]

Check out grimports.com They’ve got several DOT tire options. Lots of other good stuff as well. Thanks for watching!

[@johnburnette7275]

Would you respond with what tires and rims you have?

[@FoxfireProjects]

The wheels are the OEM wheels that I had powder coated. Tires are "Journey" brand. Chinese made but DOT approved. Purchased from G and R Imports, but don't see them listed any longer on their website. Hope this helps. Thanks for watching!

[@Doc1855]

We’re looking for a Subaru Sambar 4WD truck for grunt work around our property.

[@FoxfireProjects]

They're awesome trucks. Good luck with the search! Thanks for watching!

[@Doc1855]

@@FoxfireProjects Thanks, but do you know of a reputable source to find one?

[@FoxfireProjects]

@@Doc1855 What’s your approximate location?

[@mikedsokc]

What brand of tires are you running?

[@FoxfireProjects]

The brand name is "Journey". Chinese made but DOT approved. Picked them up from grimports.com Thanks for watching!

[@travisharrison7361]

I am a producer on the show morning in america may we use this video on our show tomorrow? with the right credit?

[@FoxfireProjects]

Certainly, as long as credit is given to this KZbin channel. Thanks so much!

[@zarb88]

So most of these are rated at 770 lbs. load. Arnt you overloaded that truck?

[@FoxfireProjects]

Yep! And it loves it! Extremely conservative weight ratings.

[@PlatinumNath]

Cabover kei trucks and bigger versions from Japan are rating their loads at a safe margin sort of rating. You can definitely carry much more than that no problem but remember metal fatigue, and for stock versions, bottoming out if too heavy.

[@dereksstuff8395]

My mini work truck is a 2008 Honda Ridgeline. Plenty of power, rear locking diff... and the a/c works great. It's just ugly as hell.

[@FoxfireProjects]

Sounds like it gets the job done! Amazing the difference the locking diff makes. Form follows function, at least for me haha. Thanks so much for watching!

[@jamesard4778]

Orange hat turkey hunting?

[@FoxfireProjects]

Yep! Just got out of the woods this morning!

[@lynchcreekmuzzy5759]

Slam that door next time and listen to that Tom gobble 🦃

[@user-qm5ig4kq3m]

youtube軽トラ俺も欲しくなってきたでも免許がない

[@FoxfireProjects]

本当に便利です。最近道路を走っているほとんどのトラックよりも頑丈です。トラックに関する新しいビデオが近々公開される予定です。見てくれてありがとう！

[@jamesjohnson8661]

Please, I beg you, share the make, model, specs and place of purchase for the tires. Thank you!!

[@FoxfireProjects]

Tires are “Journey” brand. Chinese. Purchased from grimports.com They work great! Thanks for watching!