1987 Suzuki Samurai JX review from North America

The brake system is leaking. I have to refill the resevoir about once every 15 days.

The engine was rebuilt by the previous owner. It's no great powerhouse, but the modifications he made (Isky cam, header, Weber carburetor) and my own (MSD ignition and coil, new low-restriction exhaust, K&N snorkel intake) have made it plenty powerful for only 80 cubic inches. I will eventually replace this one with a 1.6L Sidekick engine with similar mods.

I have a Spring-Over-Axle lift (4") with stock springs and cheap shocks. This works, but new springs/shocks/shackles are on the way soon. I want to replace the 31" BFG mud tires with 33" when I do this.

I have rebuilt the axles with lower gears already, and a locker is waiting for the right weekend to find it's way into the rear axle. When I get the 33" tires, the gearing will be lowered again via a transfer case rebuild.

This is a stripped vehicle (by me) with little creature comforts except a cheap sound system ($200 CD/Radio/4 speakers) and seats transplanted from a Toyota Celica. The interior is bare floor with roll-on bed liner and a diamond plate toolbox where the rear seat was. It has a cool military aura going on.

This is probably the most capable 4x4 I have ever seen. I've never been stuck or stranded and my friends with Jeeps, Blazers and Toyotas just watch me go places they wouldn't dare try. It's an ATV with seating for two and a roof (on rainy or cold days only).