Synergy Manufacturing Builds One Beautiful Commando Restomod
Jeep restomods are everywhere these days, but this classic Commando might just be the best one yet.
While many automotive trends come and go, the restomod movement doesn’t appear to be nearing the end anytime soon. And it’s easy to see why. The concept of taking an old, classic vehicle and fitting it with modern mechanicals is simply too good. Especially when those builds involve something like this incredible 1971 Jeepster Commando, built by aftermarket parts maker Synergy Manufacturing. But like most similar projects, this one started out as a somewhat rough and cheap purchase.
Synergy president and CEO Dave Schlossberg found the Commando on Craigslist with a mere $2,500 asking price. Despite its rough condition, Schlossberg saw this beaten down Jeep as the perfect opportunity to build something that could showcase their their products. So he struck a deal and came up with an ambitious plan. One that started with a brand new Jeep JK Unlimited frame to replace the old rusty Commando one.
Of course, the new frame required some trimming to fit the Commando, but it also allowed Synergy to throw their whole catalog of parts at it. Stock JK Rubicon Dana 44 axles sit underneath the Commando, but are now fitted with Synergy’s truss and a Nitto Gear cover up front. Synergy also installed its Stage 3 suspension system that includes Fox shocks and a steering stabilizer, along with a Heavy Duty Tie Bar and High-Steer kit.
Other suspension goodies include RCV Axles axle shafts, JE Reel drive shafts, Synergy 3-inch springs, and an adjustable rear track bar. A host of armor protects everything underneath, of course. Power also comes from a modern drivetrain combo, this time a GM Vortec 6000 LQ4 V8. The tried-and-true iron block engine has been treated to Texas Speed heads, a Tooley Racing cam, and Hooker headers.
You’d be hard-pressed to tell what lies underneath judging by the outside of this Commando. Because it retains most all of its retro look. Albeit with 35-inch Nitto Ridge Grappler tires mounted on 17 Wheel Vintiques Smoothies. The body itself is essentially stock and covered in a blazing hot shade of red appropriately called Firecracker. Add in some diamond stitched seats to the mostly stock interior, and you’ve got one tasty package.
Despite some formidable competition, Synergy’s Commando is easily one of the most nicely executed restomods we’ve seen in some time. With a carefully curated combination of modern and retro bits, this old Jeepster has all the amenities of a new vehicle with all the class and style of an old one. And that’s what we like to call the perfect pairing!
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