This 1982 Jeep CJ8 Scrambler recently received an extensive body-off restoration starting with a clean no-rust example. Restored between 2011–2014 the seller says the build included a color change repaint, a Novak 5.3L LS engine conversion with an uprated fuel-injected engine, new AX15 transmission, and new drivetrain installed less than 500 miles ago. The seller says the entire drivetrain from radiator to rear axle is new and the build process is documented in photos below.

The seller says he’s invested over $12,000 in driveline parts alone. This Scrambler looks great in new black paint, fresh body decals and chrome accents. The seller says it runs great and is very sound structurally and mechanically. Photos from the restoration and receipts can be viewed in the gallery below.

With 7,759 Jeep Scramblers produced in 1982 they are increasingly rare today in this condition. AMC introduced the Jeep Scrambler CJ8 to compete with the Ford Ranger and Chevy S-10, featuring 4×4 performance and Jeep toughness. This Scrambler has been thoughtfully redone and would be a nice addition for a collector or enthusiast.

Here is the truck at the start of restoration. The only rust needing attention was the windshield frame which was replaced with a new reproduction piece. There is one body imperfection—a small dent and paint splinter on the hood (shown in gallery). The seller describes the paint as factory-like, very good, but short of show quality. A stainless steel hardware kit was used during reassembly. Doors were disassembled and painted, then rebuilt with new latches and rubber. All trim and reproduction Scrambler graphics were applied after the repaint, with chrome bumpers and mirrors finishing it off nicely.

The factory-style interior presents a polished utilitarian look with black metal dash, other painted surfaces and all rubber components presenting very well. The original front seats show slight wear while the rear seat is new. Modern shoulder harness belts were added for safety. All gauges, lights and electrics work well, with a few gauges replaced for 100% functionality. The only issue is a non-working parking brake. The seller replaced the heater core and all heater control cables. There seems to be no audio with blanking plate shown. The fold-down front windscreen is a cool feature, although few choose to use it. Nice looking black carpet mats with white Jeep logos add a nice comfortable touch.

Under the bonnet the seller installed a 23k mile, 2007 fuel-injected GM 5.3L LS truck engine, as part of the Novak LS engine conversion. He says it runs great and a good power fit for the vehicles other components. The engine bay is clean and tidy with fresh black painted firewall and all wiring in order.

The seller says the entire drivetrain from radiator to rear axle is new and was installed less than 500 miles ago. The install included a new AX-15 5-speed manual transmission (regarded as the best five-speed transmission ever installed into a Jeep) new clutch, motor mounts, wiring harness, ECM computer, aluminum radiator, bell housing as well as new drive accessories on the front of the motor all from Novak for reliability.

The Scrambler chassis is straight, rust-free and includes a new limited-slip Dana 44 rear axle installed to handle the V8. The seller says the factory front axle was completely rebuilt, with a new steering box and ball joints added to insure tightness. New disc brakes were installed and use full-size Ford SUV pads and rotors for easy sourcing. Both axles received 4.10 gear ratios on new carriers. The seller has provided several photos of the undercarriage and suspension which shows a great unmolested, clean condition. A 4″ Skyjacker Softride leaf spring kit and Skyjacker shocks were installed, while chrome wheels and fresh BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/A tires enhance the trucks look. Locking hubs on the front axles help reduce driveline wear when in 2WD.

The restoration was well done and the results are apparent. The seller says he spared no expense on the build. The truck has 216k chassis miles but less than 1000 on the rebuild. The truck is being sold with a clear Ohio title and documents of all new components.