In 2001 Carpenter began competing in the USAC Sprint Car Series in the No. 1111 TG Racing car. At the season-ending USAC Sprint Legends Classic at Salem Speedway, Carpenter had the 3rd fastest qualifying time, finished 6th in the first heat and won the "Semi" race. In the feature race Carpenter took the lead with 10 laps to go and won. Carpenter finished 12th in the final point standings. In 2002 Carpenter drove for Sinden Racing, where he took one win during the season, and finished 19th in the final point standings.