Mr. Jones

1979 Datsun 620 Pickup

Classic Mini-Truck. Unconventional Engineering.


Mr. Jones began as a neglected 1979 Datsun 620 pulled from a field, with the goal of bringing it back to life and building a distinctive, old-school mini-truck.

What started as a straightforward revival has grown into a much more ambitious project, combining classic mini-truck styling with modern drivetrain technology, advanced suspension design, and extensive custom fabrication.

The long-term vision centers around a custom tilting service bed, a purpose-built hydraulic cantilever suspension, and a turbo-diesel eight-speed drivetrain—all while maintaining the unmistakable character of the original Datsun.

The Build

Engine & Drivetrain

Component Current Configuration 
Engine Nissan L20B four-cylinder
Fuel system Weber 32/36 carburetor
Transmission Nissan manual transmission
Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive


Suspension & Brakes

Component
 Current Configuration/Development 
Front suspension
 Lowered torsion-bar suspension
Front conversion Nissan D21 spindles with 2-inch drop
Front calipers Nissan Pathfinder dual-piston
Front rotors R1 Concepts drilled/slotted
Front brake pads  PowerStop


Wheels & Exterior

Component
 Configuration/Direction
Wheels Western Wheel turbine-style, 15x10
Bolt pattern 6x5.5
Backspacing Approximately 4 inches
Mirrors Fender-mounted
Lighting 5 3/4-inch headlight conversion with amber inner lamps
Exterior Original Datsun bodywork with a lowered mini-truck stance

 

The first stage of the build focuses on getting Mr. Jones running reliably, establishing the lowered stance, upgrading the front brakes, and refining its classic mini-truck appearance.

A custom exhaust system, including a distinctive bedside exit, is also part of the initial development.

Current Development

The First Evolution

Rather than taking the truck completely apart from the beginning, the first phase is focused on building a clean, running, driving mini-truck while documenting the transformation.

Current work includes:

  • Completing the front suspension and Pathfinder brake conversion. 
  • Finalizing wheel and tire fitment.
  • Refining the lowered stance.
  • Engine tuning and roadworthiness.
  • Custom exhaust development.
  • Interior cleanup and basic improvements.

This stage gives Mr. Jones a distinct identity before the more extensive fabrication begins.

             

Future Development

Custom Tilting Service Bed

One of the defining features of Mr. Jones will be a fully custom service-style bed, replacing the original pickup bed with a distinctive, purpose-built design.

The service bed will be developed to complement the truck's low stance and classic styling while incorporating a tilting mechanism that provides both functionality and a unique visual element.

This will be a major custom fabrication undertaking and a central feature of the completed vehicle.

Dual-Bellcrank Cantilever Suspension

Mr. Jones is planned to receive a custom dual-bellcrank cantilever suspension system, using hydraulic cylinders to control ride height and coilovers to provide damping and ride quality. The system will be engineered specifically for the truck, integrating custom suspension geometry, fabricated mounting structures, and the hydraulic components into one cohesive package. The goal is a distinctive suspension system that delivers both mechanical functionality and a unique presentation.

Turbo-Diesel / Eight-Speed Drivetrain

The original L20B will eventually make way for a Volkswagen TDI diesel engine paired with a ZF 8HP automatic transmission. This combination is intended to provide strong torque, modern transmission performance, and an unconventional drivetrain package for a classic mini-truck.

Additional Body & Interior Development

  • Custom four-link rear suspension as part of the advanced chassis design.
  • 240Z-inspired dashboard conversion.
  • Forward-hinged hood.
  • BRE-inspired Venturi Racing Engineering livery.
  • Continued custom interior and metal fabrication.

These modifications will be developed progressively as Mr. Jones evolves.

Follow the Build

Mr. Jones is being documented through Venturi Fab, from its recovery out of a field and the first round of mechanical upgrades through its future fabrication and drivetrain development.

Featured build videos

About Venturi Fab

Venturi Fab was founded by Rob Wertz, a professional fabricator with 25 years of experience across automotive repair, performance modifications, custom fabrication, and vehicle restoration.

With multiple original projects underway and a dedicated 3,000-square-foot fabrication shop in development, Venturi Fab is building a business centered on craftsmanship, technical capability, and lasting relationships throughout the automotive industry.

Explore more: Mr. Jones | Leroy | About Venturi Fab