For Jeep enthusiasts and collectors, the Jeep Scrambler represents an iconic piece of 4×4 history. As a unique blend of Jeep’s rugged off-road capabilities and practical pickup utility, the Scrambler holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate classic, durable vehicles. Whether you’re a seasoned Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler owner or a potential buyer looking into acquiring one of these seemingly rare Jeep trucks, this little overview will walk you through the history, features, and key details of the Jeep Scrambler.
Jeep’s Pickup Truck History
Before the Jeep Scrambler made its debut, Jeep had a rich history of creating robust pickup trucks. One of the most notable predecessors was the Jeep Gladiator SJ, which was introduced in 1962. The Gladiator SJ was a full-sized pickup that shared a platform with the Wagoneer, combining the capability of a truck with the comfort of an SUV.
Stellantis
Although the Gladiator name was dropped after 1971, Jeep continued manufacturing its pickup truck until 1988, offering various configurations that catered to both civilian and military needs, making it a versatile and durable vehicle positioned to go up against the mighty Detroit trucks of the age. These Jeep trucks were powered by a range of engines, including the Tornado inline-six and the AMC V8, which contributed to its reputation for reliability and strength.
Other noteworthy models in Jeep’s pickup lineage include the Jeep J-Series trucks, which continued the Gladiator’s legacy into the late 1980s. These trucks maintained the same rugged appeal and were known for their impressive off-road performance. The introduction of the Scrambler in 1981 marked a significant evolution in Jeep’s pickup truck offerings, bringing a new, more compact option to the lineup.
Before the Gladiator SJ, Jeep had experimented with other truck models, such as the Willys-Overland Jeep Truck introduced in 1947. This model laid the groundwork for Jeep’s future in the pickup market. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that Jeep introduced the Scrambler, a more compact and versatile truck designed to appeal to a broader audience.
Stellantis
Related
7 Fascinating Jeeps The World Forgot
Unless you’re a true Jeep aficionado, you probably haven’t heard of these.
The Jeep Scrambler: America’s First Small 4×4 Pickup
Stellantis
The Jeep Scrambler, officially known as the CJ-8 Scrambler, was introduced halfway into 1981 with American Motors Corporation (AMC) at the helm of Jeep. It was Jeep’s answer to the growing demand for compact pickups that still retained the off-road functionality the brand was known for. The Scrambler was essentially a stretched version of the Jeep CJ-7 with a 103.5-inch wheelbase, offering additional cargo space and utility without compromising on the Jeep’s iconic looks and capabilities. The Jeep Scrambler was also capable of carrying a 1,500-pound payload, which is impressive for a vehicle of this size.
The 1981 Jeep Scrambler was designed to provide the perfect balance between a Jeep’s adventurous spirit and the practicality of a pickup truck. With its open bed at the back, the Scrambler was an excellent choice for those who needed a vehicle that could handle both daily tasks and off-road adventures. This innovative design quickly garnered a loyal following, finding high praise, particularly among outdoor enthusiasts, beach-goers, and ranch hands, who appreciated the Scrambler’s versatility.
Bring A Trailer
Despite its unique appeal, the Jeep Scrambler faced stiff competition in the compact pickup market. Nevertheless, its blend of classic Jeep styling, reliable engineering, and practical utility made it a standout choice. The Scrambler was available in several trims and configurations, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to suit their specific needs.
Jeep Scrambler Design And Body Features
The Jeep Scrambler’s design is a testament to Jeep’s commitment to functionality and ruggedness. Its longer wheelbase, and half-cab arrangement, set it apart from the CJ-7 and provided the additional length needed for the pickup bed. The Scrambler’s body featured a distinctive hard or soft top option, catering to different user preferences and needs.
Bring A Trailer
One of the key design elements of the Jeep Scrambler was its versatility in cargo management. The pickup bed, though smaller than traditional pickups, was ideal for carrying gear, tools, and other essentials for off-road trips or daily work. The vehicle’s steel body panels were designed to withstand tough conditions, ensuring durability and longevity.
The Scrambler also came with various body configurations, including full steel hardtops, half cabs, and soft tops, allowing owners to tailor their vehicles to their specific requirements. This flexibility made the Scrambler an appealing option for a wide range of consumers, from farmers to adventure seekers.
Jeep Scrambler Engine And Transmission Options
Throughout its production run from 1981 to 1986, the Jeep Scrambler was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. Here is a table summarizing the powertrain options available for each model year:
Model Year
Engine Options
Transmission Options
Production
1981 Jeep Scrambler
2.5-Liter GM Iron Duke I4,
4.2-Liter AMC I6,
2.4-Liter Isuzu C240 I4 diesel
4-speed manual,
5-speed manual
8,355
1982 Jeep Scrambler
2.5-Liter GM Iron Duke I4,
4.2-Liter AMC I6,
2.4-Liter Isuzu C240 I4 diesel
4-speed manual,
5-speed manual,
3-speed automatic
7,759
1983 Jeep Scrambler
2.5-Liter GM Iron Duke I4,
4.2-Liter AMC I6,
2.4-Liter Isuzu C240 I4 diesel
4-speed manual,
5-speed manual,
3-speed automatic
5,405
1984 Jeep Scrambler
2.5-Liter AMC I4,
4.2-Liter AMC I6,
2.4-Liter Isuzu C240 I4 diesel
4-speed manual,
5-speed manual,
3-speed automatic
4,130
1985 Jeep Scrambler
2.5-Liter AMC I4,
4.2-Liter AMC I6,
2.4-Liter Isuzu C240 I4 diesel
4-speed manual,
5-speed manual,
3-speed automatic
2,015
1986 Jeep Scrambler
2.5-Liter AMC I4,
4.2-Liter AMC I6,
2.4-Liter Isuzu C240 I4 diesel
4-speed manual,
5-speed manual,
3-speed automatic
128
Add CarBuzz to your Google News feed.
Originally, the CJ-8 Scrambler would inherit the Iron Duke 2.5-liter inline-four gas engine that was being utilized in the Jeep CJ-7 model from 1981 to 1983. This was the standard base engine and the 151 cubic inches of rotating mass was able to produce a puny 82 horsepower at 4,000 rpm. Acceleration was slow but the engine optimized fuel efficiency, which was the name of the game in the economically depraved early 1980s.
Bring A Trailer
For those seeking more power, the 4.2-liter inline-six was the preferred option, delivering robust performance both on and off the road. Some export models received a diesel power plant. The available transmissions included four- and five-speed manuals, as well as a three-speed automatic for certain model years, giving drivers a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Like most of the vehicle components, the CJ-8 Scrambler inherited and shared many attributes from the Jeep CJ-7. This included the leaf spring suspension, drivetrain options, and four-wheel-drive system. A traditional and proven transfer case was carried over consisting of the gear-driven Dana 300 which features a 2.60:1 low-range ratio.
Manual front-locking hubs to engage the four-wheel drive were also adopted on the Scrambler’s open-knuckle Dana 30 front axle which had disc brakes. The CJ-8 Scrambler sported an AMC Model 20 rear axle for all years of production, minus the last 128 units assembled in 1986 which were upgraded to the Dana 44.
Bring A Trailer
The Scrambler’s chassis, suspension system, and sturdy frame were designed to handle rugged terrain. The 4×4 system, a hallmark of Jeep’s off-road capability, ensured that the Scrambler could tackle challenging landscapes with ease, making it a reliable companion for adventurous drivers.
Interior And Trim Packages
The interior of the Jeep Scrambler was sparse and built with functionality and simplicity in mind. The layout was straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges and durable materials that could withstand the wear and tear of off-road driving. Despite its utilitarian nature, the Scrambler offered several trim packages that added a touch of comfort and style to the cabin.
Bring A Trailer
Some of the notable variants include the Renegade and the Laredo. The Renegade package added sporty graphics, wider tires, and special wheels, enhancing the Scrambler’s visual appeal and off-road capability. The Laredo package, on the other hand, focused on interior upgrades, offering leather seats, a tilt steering wheel, and additional sound insulation for a more comfortable driving experience.
Other available options for the Scrambler’s interior included air conditioning, an AM/FM radio, and a rear bench seat, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to better suit their needs and preferences. These features, combined with the Scrambler’s robust design, made it a versatile and appealing choice for a wide range of drivers.
What Was The Jeep Scrambler?
Bring A Trailer
The Jeep Scrambler, also known as the CJ-8 Scrambler, was a compact 4×4 pickup truck produced by Jeep from 1981 to 1986. It was based on the CJ-7 platform and combined the rugged off-road capabilities of the Jeep CJ series with the practicality of a pickup truck.
How Rare Is A Jeep Scrambler?
The Jeep Scrambler is considered rare, as under 30,000 units were produced over its six-year production run. Its unique design and limited availability make it a sought-after vehicle among collectors and enthusiasts. Leading up to the final production run of the Scrambler in 1986, Jeep ended the CJ-7 platform, and that made way for the new Jeep Wrangler architecture in 1987. This also meant the end of the CJ-8 Scrambler. The Comanche was Jeep’s Cherokee-based truck that arrived after the Scrambler.
Related
Jeep Comanche: Everything You Need To Know About The Rare Compact Pickup
The obscure Jeep Comanche was terrific in concept and delivered functionality but failed to appeal. Why has it become desirable now?
How Much Is A Jeep Scrambler?
The price of a Jeep Scrambler can vary widely depending on its condition, mileage, and specific features. Today, an average, a well-maintained 1981 Jeep Scrambler or 1982 Jeep Scrambler can range from $20,000 to $40,000, with rare and highly sought-after models fetching even higher prices. The models produced in 1981 and 1982 were in much higher volumes than in subsequent years. Finding a pristine, non-molested version could exceed $50,000.
Summary: The Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler Is An Icon For The Ages
Stellantis
The Jeep Scrambler remains a beloved classic among Jeep enthusiasts and collectors. Its unique blend of off-road excellence, practical utility, and timeless design make it a standout vehicle in Jeep’s storied lineup. Ultimately, the modern Jeep truck, the JT Gladiator, can tie its lineage back to the CJ-8 Scrambler. Whether you’re an avid collector or a potential buyer looking for a reliable and versatile 4×4, the Jeep Scrambler offers a compelling option that stands the test of time.
Related
Here’s Why The Jeep Gladiator Isn’t Called The Scrambler
Remember when Jeep’s new pickup truck was known as the Scrambler?
This article contains information from reputable sources like Stellantis, Bring A Trailer, and Classic.com.