1. How did you get into this scene?
Notice the difference between HOW and WHY. Asking “why”, (generally speaking, of course), is accompanied by a mocking, skeptical attitude, while asking “how” shows less bias and more curiosity. Whenever you come across a unique hobby or automotive enthusiast niche, you may find there was a likewise unique entrance into that “world.”

1. How did you get into this scene?
Notice the difference between HOW and WHY. Asking “why”, (generally speaking, of course), is accompanied by a mocking, skeptical attitude, while asking “how” shows less bias and more curiosity. Whenever you come across a unique hobby or automotive enthusiast niche, you may find there was a likewise unique entrance into that “world.”

2. What all is done to your truck, and who did the work?
You’ll be able to determine how “into it” the driver is from this question. If he did the work himself, this question alone could lead into all you ever wanted to know about the vehicle and ten times more. If the work was done at a shop, you can find out about the shop and if the owner’s happy with the work.

This question might also reveal when the work was done, and how long the driver had the truck.

Also consider asking: What kind of valves and bags are you running? Any engine work done? How much air, what kind of compressors, how much pressure?

3. Do you go to shows?
Custom cars and trucks end up at shows, or the owner may attend shows without showing his ride. From there, you can find out which shows, what classes the truck is in, and if the owner’s won anything (or hopes to one day).

4. Are you in a club?
There are many car and truck clubs out there, so if you see an unfamiliar sticker, this may be a club and another opportunity for you to talk about. Asking what area the club is out of, how many rides, and what kinds of things they do as a club, may be informative.

5. Do you have future plans for the truck?
Although it is possible for an owner to be completely satisfied and content with his ride, trucks are often a work in progress; there is always something else the owner wants to get done. Find out what these next steps are, and what kind of timeframe is planned out for the project. On the other hand, it is not uncommon to see mini trucks for sale, so finding out why might be informative as well.

The bottom line, when conversing with a minitrucker, lies in showing interest instead of inadvertently passing judgment.

Additional article:
4 Questions to Avoid Asking While Conversing With a Minitrucker:

–Monica T.