Return of the Jeep Scrambler

History of the Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler (1981–1986)

The Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler started production as a stretched Jeep CJ-7 in 1981 and remained in production until 1986.

Factory Engine Options for the Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler

Throughout its run, the CJ-8 Scrambler offered drivers a choice of engines to suit different preferences and needs. Early models from 1981½ to 1983 came standard with the 151-cubic-inch GM “Iron Duke” four-cylinder—a no-nonsense, carbureted workhorse, though not exactly a powerhouse in the Scrambler context.

In 1984, Jeep swapped this out for its own 2.5-liter AMC four-cylinder engine. Though still carbureted, this engine provided a noticeable bump in power and ultimately laid the groundwork for the fuel-injected versions that would later define the early Wrangler era.

For those seeking a bit more muscle, an optional 4.2-liter inline-six was available across all years, delivering a solid blend of horsepower and torque, despite being slightly held back by the emissions equipment of the era. Notably, while earlier Jeep CJs sometimes sported a V8, the Scrambler never rolled off the assembly line with a factory-installed V8 under the hood—so all factory engines were either four- or six-cylinder variants.

Intended Uses and Target Audience

When the Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler debuted, it wasn’t just another set of wheels on the lot—it was crafted for folks who wanted a vehicle as versatile as their daily routine. The Scrambler was aimed at drivers who valued off-road adventure as much as hauling firewood or tackling the weekend honey-do list. This extended-wheelbase Jeep balanced play and practicality, making it appealing both to outdoor enthusiasts keen on hitting the trails and to those seeking a dependable, functional truck for work and errands.

With its pickup-style bed, the Scrambler offered utility for small business owners, hobbyists, and anyone in need of a reliable hauler that could navigate rough terrain. From campers loading up for a trip to farmers needing to shuffle supplies across bumpy fields, the Scrambler fit the bill. It was marketed to the crowd that wanted the heart and soul of a Jeep, but with an extra dash of cargo space and all-purpose grit.

Most notably, the Scrambler served its life under the hand of Former-President Ronald Regan on his California ranch, sporting a half top and integrated pick-up–style bed. The Gipper was so enchanted with the Scrambler that soon, in Alaska, the United States Postal Service started using CJ-8’s with full length high-roof hard top, and used a hinged “barn-door” instead of a tailgate.

Configurations Built for Versatility

The CJ-8 Scrambler wasn’t just a one-trick pony. Its hallmark was versatility—offering a standard half-cab design that transformed it into a small two-seater pickup, complete with a bulkhead separating the cab from the cargo bed. For those craving extra space or needing to haul a crew, Jeep offered an optional full soft-top version or a hardtop with full metal doors, converting the Scrambler into a four-seater with an extended cargo bed.

Inside, the story continued: interiors ranged from no-nonsense vinyl seats and rugged floor coverings—perfect for farmhands and weekend warriors—to the decidedly cushier Laredo package. Opting for the Laredo meant high-back cloth bucket seats, a tilt steering wheel, and carpeting underfoot, giving the Scrambler all the comfort standards of its day. Whether you needed a spartan ox cart or a plush off-roader, the Scrambler could be built to fit the bill.

While only 230 of these were produced for the United States, they were sold in large numbers to Venezuela and Australia as the CJ-8 Overlander.

Scrambler Axles and Gear Ratios Through the Years

During its production run, the Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler boasted a variety of axle and gearing combinations to suit different drivers and uses. As the model evolved, Jeep introduced several key updates to enhance both stability and durability.

Early Scramblers featured “narrow track” axles, but by 1982, Jeep widened the front and rear axles—referred to as “Wide Track”—boosting stability whether you were crossing a muddy field or just cruising Main Street. Underneath, you’d commonly find an open-knuckle Dana 30 front axle equipped with disc brakes, ensuring reliable stopping power when hauling a load or exploring rugged terrain.

Engine choices influenced gear ratios:

• Four-cylinder models: Fitted with either 3.54 or 4.09 axle ratios, striking a balance between efficiency and low-end grunt.
• 4.2-liter six-cylinder models: Offered ratios of 2.73, 3.54, or 3.73, catering to those wanting more versatile performance.

For the rear, most Scramblers (1981–mid-1986) rolled off the line with an AMC Model 20 axle. While it held up well under moderate use, its relatively thin axle tubes and unique two-piece shaft design made it less ideal for serious off-roading or heavy loads.

Jeep later answered the call for strength by introducing the Dana 44 rear axle toward the end of the CJ-8’s production. With its beefier tubes and 30-spline flanged shafts, it was a coveted upgrade—though, with only a handful of late-model Scramblers sporting this rear axle, finding one today is akin to discovering a rare piece of ranch history.

Unfortunately, in 1986, the CJ-8 was discontinued by AMC-Jeep and the name was left to collect dust.

Why Did the Scrambler Disappear?

So, what happened to the Scrambler? Concerns over rollovers prompted Jeep to retire its classic CJ chassis in 1987, making way for the all-new Wrangler and closing the chapter on the Scrambler. By the time production wrapped, exactly 27,783 Scramblers had rolled off the line—a modest legacy for a rig that’s become a cult favorite among Jeep aficionados.

Why the Jeep Scrambler Remains Coveted Today

So what makes the Jeep Scrambler such a sought-after classic these days? For starters, its rugged charm and versatility earned fans from all walks—farmers, ranchers, surfers, and adventurers alike. While it looked right at home bouncing over prairie grass or cruising along the coast with a couple of boards in the back, it was just as happy hauling gear into town.

The Scrambler occupies a special place in Jeep’s family tree. It’s often considered the spiritual forerunner of today’s pickup-style Jeeps, like the Gladiator, giving it a unique pedigree. And thanks to its modest production numbers (just under 28,000 made for the U.S.), the CJ-8 strikes a desirable mid-point between rare and accessible. Unlike more mass-market classics, you won’t see Scramblers at every car meet, and that exclusivity has only driven up interest with collectors and 4×4 fans.

Add to that its straightforward, no-nonsense mechanicals—before things got complicated with electronics—and you’ve got a truck that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly simple to keep running. Whether you appreciate it for its Reagan-era Americana, its quirky postal service variants, or its overlander identity from the far side of the globe, the Scrambler stands as both a conversation starter and a practical classic that’s eager for another adventure.

From Showroom Floor to Coveted Collectible

Back in the early 1980s, if you had your eye on a brand-new Scrambler, you’d be looking at a price tag hovering between $9,000 and $10,000—depending, of course, on whether you were lured in by shiny chrome packages or decided to tick a few extra option boxes. Fast-forward to today, and those same Scramblers—especially the ones that have been lovingly preserved and show few miles on the odometer—are hot-ticket items among collectors.

Nowadays, it’s not unusual to see well-maintained Scramblers fetching anywhere from $20,000 to $30,000 on the classic market. And if you stumble across that elusive, all-original, pristine example? Don’t be surprised to see the price climb north of $40,000. Rarity, originality, and a dash of good old-fashioned nostalgia all play their part in driving up the value.

Jeep Scrambler Revival: The Jeep JT Pickup (2019)

Thirty-three years later, Jeep is reviving the Scrambler namesake for the new Jeep JT Pickup, with promises of uncompromising brutishness and utility. While the 2019 Jeep Scrambler hasn’t been publicly released yet, there are a few details that have been pulled from engineers and test mules seen around Detroit.

Key Features Expected in the 2019 Jeep Scrambler

• Removable hard-top
• Fully-boxed steel frame
• Solid beam axles Front and Rear
• 3.0L V6 VM-Motari diesel engine
• 8-Speed automatic transmission and 6-Speed manual transmission
• 5-Link “Quadra-Coil” suspension
• Full-Time 4WD “Quadra-matic” Transfercase

Expected Transmission and Drivetrain Options

Jeep has a history of offering a diverse mix of transmissions in the Scrambler line, and the 2019 model looks set to continue that tradition. Alongside the anticipated 8-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions, the new Scrambler is expected to cater to both those who crave a hands-on driving experience and those who prefer convenience for daily driving.

The Full-Time 4WD “Quadra-matic” transfer case will likely provide robust off-road capability, hearkening back to the durability of the gear-driven Dana 300 transfer cases found in classic Scramblers, which featured a 2.60:1 low-range ratio for tackling tough trails. Jeep’s commitment to versatility is clear: whether you’re looking for smooth highway cruising or technical rock-crawling, the upcoming Scrambler aims to offer a transmission and transfer case combination to match.

With this arsenal of hardware, the 2019 Jeep Scrambler is shaping up to be not only a nod to its legendary predecessors but also a modern force in the pickup segment.

Scrambler vs Small Pickup Competition

Needless to say, the new JT Scrambler Pickup should be a a show stopper, and is set to shake up the small pickup market. Toyota and General Motors should be watching with eager anticipation as this competition drops on their already released Tacoma and Colorado models.

What card does Ford have up its sleeve with the pending release of the Ranger and Bronco models?

Jeep Scrambler vs Competitors

Below is a comparison of the upcoming Jeep Scrambler (JT Pickup) against the small pickup competitors it is set to challenge:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Why was the Jeep Scrambler discontinued?

A: The CJ-8 Scrambler was discontinued in 1986 by AMC-Jeep due to low sales and market shifts.

Q2. Did Ronald Reagan own a Jeep Scrambler?

A: Yes, Reagan owned a Scrambler on his California ranch, making it one of the most famous Jeeps of the era.

Q3. What is the difference between the Jeep Scrambler and the Jeep Gladiator?

A: The modern Scrambler (JT Pickup) was released in 2019 and later branded as the Jeep Gladiator, offering more modern utility while honoring the Scrambler name.

Q4. What engines were available in the new Jeep Scrambler?

A: The 2019 Scrambler offered a 3.0L V6 diesel engine with both 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic transmission options.

Q5. Where can someone buy a Jeep Scrambler now, and what are typical buying options?

A: Jeep Scramblers are still out there if you know where to look—and they come in all flavors. You’ll spot everything from barn-find projects to showroom-condition restorations on online sites like Bringatrailer.com and eWillys.com. If you prefer something ready to roll or restored by the pros, shops such as Collins Bros Jeep and The Jeep Farm, LLC occasionally have Scramblers available, complete with in-house quality control. Can’t track down an original? No worries—the aftermarket scene is strong enough that, with a new frame and replacement body parts, you could practically build your own “Scrambler” from the ground up. Whether you want a fixer-upper for a winter project or a collector-quality classic, there’s a Scrambler out there with your name on it.