Going Commando: 1971 Jeepster Commando Resto-Mod
Going in to restore a vehicle is a hard choice. You can go full numbers matching, taking years and years of work. You could also do the resto-mod, where much of the equipment matches, but things like the engine and drivetrain receive upgrades or updates, which makes it more fun, if also a bit less correct. This 1971 Jeepster Commando fits in with the latter with parts that make it more powerful, fun and “safe to drive.” Let’s take a look and see what makes it worth $35,000, as priced on Just Jeepers.
If you are unfamiliar with the Jeepster, it was a phaeton body Jeep from the Willys-Overland Motors lineup, before it became AMC. But it’s a unique design from the standard Jeep. Instead of being basic, utilitarian and what most people think of as a Jeep, it was rather upscale, featuring things like whitewall tires, bright trim hubcaps, a locking glove box, and continental tire with a fabric cover, among other standard items. It was also Rear-Wheel Drive only. Then in 1966, Kaiser-Jeep revived the Jeepster name with the Jeepster Commando and it carried the same tune – great, higher-end standard items but this time it had 4WD. There were two versions, the C101 and the C104. This 1971 Jeepster Commando is the C101 with a 101-inch wheelbase.
This particular Commando is owned by Just Jeepsters, who know these Jeeps inside and out, but aren’t above making changes. For this build, the body was removed from the frame to begin its restoration and modification journey. Under the hood, where the Hurricane I4 or a Dauntless V6 resided, now sits a General Motors 4.3-liter V6. This is actually an advantage as the 4.3 makes more power without excessively doing so, and the bellhousing bolt pattern is the same as the Chevy V8. This also means it can reuse the Turbo 400 transmission and Dana 20 transfercase. Though, it also uses the Dana 27 in the front, and it does have the 44 in the rear.
Part of the safety upgrades are the front disc brakes, replacing the original drums, and power assist. You also get 30×9.50 BF Goodrich Tires on original Jeep 15-inch oval slotted wheels. Inside you get high-back bucket seats while you listen to the 4-speaker JVC stereo. You also get a new Grant steering wheel to hold on to and a new roll bar to protect you.
This resto-mod is also a tribute to the Hurst Jeepster, the rarest version of the Jeepster Commando, and in doing so it comes with many period and package correct parts. The shifter is the Hurst Dual Gate for the Turbo 400 that you shift in harmony with the Dixco tachometer. The hood is the Hurst Performance version with a hoodscoop along with badging in and around the Jeepster. However, it does not feature the Hurst stripes and instead uses the SC1 stripe kit that matches the C101 and gives it good character.
You want this resto-mod Jeepster? Well, you’ll have to fork out some cash for it. The Jeep is listed for $35k. That is actually rather inexpensive considering the time and money spent into make this a perfect resto-mod, and being built by Just Jeepsters is a plus.
Chime in with your thoughts on the forum. >>
Via [Just Jeepers]