When you hear "kei truck," you might think of a tiny city runabout or a humble farm rig. But in the hands of Oiwa Garage, the Suzuki Carry becomes something entirely different: a nimble, trail-capable off-road machine built to punch far above its weight class.
In this breakdown, we’ll take you through the essential components, modifications, and philosophy behind Oiwa Garage’s trail-ready Suzuki Carry — a true example of form, function, and fun packed into a compact platform.
????️ 1. Foundation: Choosing the Right Carry
Oiwa Garage started with a Suzuki Carry DA63T — a reliable and widely available 4WD model. Known for its lightweight chassis, solid front axle, and short wheelbase, it’s an ideal candidate for trail builds and tight technical terrain.
???? 2. Suspension & Lift Setup
Trail-readiness starts from the ground up. Oiwa equipped the Carry with a 2-inch lift kit, offering the ideal balance between clearance and stability. This setup provides:
Increased approach/departure angles
Room for larger, more aggressive tires
Better articulation on uneven terrain
Custom strut extensions and upgraded springs ensure the ride stays smooth, even when loaded with gear.
???? 3. Tire & Wheel Combo
Fitted with 24” mud-terrain tires on 12” steel wheels, the truck gains serious off-road traction while maintaining the nimbleness the Carry is known for. The aggressive tread pattern is ideal for mud, loose gravel, and rocky climbs — perfect for forest trails or weekend overland trips.
????️ 4. Skid Plates & Underbody Armor
One of the smartest additions from Oiwa Garage is a full custom skid plate package, protecting:
Oil pan
Transfer case
Rear differential
Considering the Carry’s low center of gravity, this armor is essential for keeping the underbody safe from rocks, stumps, and unexpected trail obstacles.
???? 5. Lighting & Electrical Upgrades
Built to explore beyond daylight hours, the Carry features:
Roof-mounted LED light bar for wide-beam trail visibility
Ditch lights to illuminate blind corners and off-camber paths
Cleanly wired switch panel inside the cab for easy control
Oiwa also added a dual-battery setup to power accessories without draining the main system.
???? 6. Recovery & Trail Gear
No build is complete without trail recovery essentials. Mounted up front is a compact 3,500 lb winch hidden behind a custom bumper. The bed holds:
Recovery boards
Soft shackles
High-lift jack
Compact shovel and tool kit
Whether you’re exploring solo or with a crew, this Carry is ready for anything the trail throws its way.
????️ 7. Storage & Utility
One of the most clever aspects of Oiwa’s build is its smart storage solutions:
Bed rack system with a modular MOLLE panel
Rooftop tent compatibility for overnight trips
Water canisters, tool storage, and a fold-out table setup
Compact doesn’t mean cramped when everything has its place.
???? 8. Engine Mods & Trail Durability
While the stock 660cc engine isn’t a powerhouse, Oiwa keeps it reliable and efficient with:
A high-flow intake and exhaust system
Snorkel for water crossings and dusty trails
Upgraded radiator for better heat management during climbs
It’s not about speed—it’s about torque, traction, and outlasting the terrain.
???? Final Thoughts: Built with Purpose
What makes Oiwa Garage’s Suzuki Carry build special isn’t just the parts—it’s the intention behind every upgrade. This is a kei truck built for real-world adventure, without sacrificing its core simplicity and charm.
For those looking to explore off the beaten path in something truly unique, this trail-ready Suzuki Carry proves that you don’t need a massive 4x4 to go far — you just need the right setup and a love for the journey.
???? Want to see more?
Stay tuned for our exclusive photo tour of the build, behind-the-scenes shop shots, and a day-in-the-dirt trail test coming soon.