1983 Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler: The Misunderstood Showcase
Not all Jeep CJ-8 models are Scramblers. But this stunning 1983 model is the real deal, and it serves a very special purpose.
The Jeep CJ-8, a 108-inch wheelbase pickup version of the CJ-7, was built from 1981-1986. A replacement for the CJ-6, the CJ-8 employed a traditional transfer case, manual locking hubs, and a 4 or 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 3-speed automatic. Many Jeep fans to this day still refer to these pickups as Scramblers. But Scrambler was actually a limited-edition appearance package available on the CJ-8. This particular Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler is a bit of a test bed, and it’s also part of Omix-ADA‘s “Jeep Collection.”
Omix-ADA is not just a renowned maker/seller of Jeep parts, but also an important member of the Jeep community. The idea behind the Jeep Collection is to help preserve the brand’s heritage and have easy access to vehicles for product development. Over time, the collection has grown to include a number of rare and otherwise significant Jeeps. We recently had the pleasure of speaking with the Jeep Collection’s curator, Dave Logan, about these unique and interesting vehicles.
JK Forum: This particular Jeep CJ-8, from our understanding, serves a special purpose in the Jeep Collection.
Dave Logan: This, for us, is a trade show vehicle. So it’s not stock. We have all the stock parts to put it back to original. But it’s currently outfitted for trade show use. It has our accessories, bumpers, seats, etc. So we can take it to shows and say “here it is, page 37 in the catalog.” It’s gone through many changes over the years.
A lot of people refer to these CJ-8s simply as Scramblers, but that isn’t correct, right?
Most people call the CJ-8 Scramblers. And you can see on the hood that is says Scrambler. But really, this is a CJ-8 and Scrambler is a package. Much like the Laredo, Renegade, or Rubicon of today. That package consisted of decals, special seats, and various cosmetic things. But many people think that every CJ-8 was a Scrambler, and that’s just not true. Some CJ-8s are Scramblers, and some are not.
Is there anything about this particular Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler that’s rare or unusual?
This one has an automatic transmission and air conditioning. For that time frame, that was unusual. Both were factory options. But most people did not opt for the automatic transmission or pay extra for the air conditioning.
To see more of the incredible Jeep Collection, head over here!