The most fascinating CJ-8 engine possibility was the 258 cubic-inch (4.2-liter) I6 that made 115 horsepower, as Jeep did not provide any V8 engines within the Scrambler. Underneath four-cylinder CJ-8s sat a BorgWarner SR-4 four-speed guide transmission, whereas six-cylinder fashions obtained the Tremec T-176. Buyers who did not know how to drive a stick shift might go for Chrysler’s Torqueflite 904 automated with the four-cylinder engine and the TF 999 with the six. For 1985 and 1986, guide Scramblers obtained the BorgWarner T-5, which had a stump-yanking 4.03:1 first gear and a 0.76:1 overdrive fifth.
Behind all these transmissions sat a two-speed Dana 300 switch case, with the entrance driveshaft working to a Dana 30 axle. Most CJ-8s had the somewhat flimsy two-piece AMC 20 within the again, however some 1986 Scramblers obtained a lot beefier Dana 44 rear axles.
The customary prime was a tough half-cab cowl, however full tender and laborious tops had been additionally out there. Like the CJ-7, The CJ-8 Scrambler might be upgraded with higher-ratio axles, elevate kits, and lockers. Many Jeepers substitute the inventory engine of their CJ with certainly one of AMC’s robust however gas-chugging V8s or swap in a Chevy LS motor, however provide and demand make these engines and underbody upgrades far simpler to accumulate than a CJ-8 to place them in. CJ-8 Scramblers initially offered for between $9,000 and $10,000, however a well-preserved mannequin will price a minimum of $30,000 as we speak.
[Featured image by CZMarlin via Wikimedia Commons|Cropped and scaled|Public Domain]
