CJ-8 Scrambler
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The CJ-8 Scrambler was a stretched version of the CJ-7, introduced in 1981 with production ending in 1986. It featured a 103.5 inch wheelbase (10" more than the CJ-7) and an additional 14" of rear overhang vs. the CJ-7. It was typically outfitted with a bulkhead behind the front seats and a half cab hard top giving it the appearance and some of the utility of a pickup truck. Only 27,792 were built in the 5 years of production. All CJ-8s used the Dana 300 transfer case and manual front-locking hubs to engage the 4-wheel drive. Most CJ-8s used a four or five-speed standard tranmission, however a 3-speed automatic transmission was also available. Drivetrain options were the same as for CJ-7's of the same era. Trim levels also pretty much stayed in step with the CJ-7.
A full length hard top version was also produced as the US mail Alaskan delivery van. It was built as a RHD with stock drivetrain of 258 6 cylinder,3 speed auto(TF727?)Dana 300,AMC 20 rear and Dana 30 front diffs. This RHD version carried over to an export model sold in Australia called the "CJ8 Overlander". Major difference between the alaskan and Australian CJ8s was the full length rear windows on the Overlander whereas the AK postal was flat pannelled and fully insulated. Other differences were the righthand hang of the rear door on the Overlander(left on the AK) and lighting changes to comply with ADRs. Overlanders had 3 trim levels, Standard- usually white with 2 buckets in the front and a small 2person rear seat the same as a CJ7 all trimmed in vyinal, full carpetting, alloy bullbar, white steel wheels and 3 inch sports bar. Agricultural pack deleted the rear seat and rear carpet. Laredo trim added a choice of metalic paint, chrome grille and wheels, pinstripeing, leather steering wheel, leather grab bar, and 2 tone sports seats.
Other CJ8s were also exported and built under licence in several regions of the world noteably South America and Israel mostly for government and military use. A YJ8 (square headlight)continued to be built in the late 80s and early 90s in Sth America,and an existing Israelie military version continues to be built today.
