Jeepster Commando Rebuilt Into Consummate Trail King
Old school 1970 Jeepster Commando uses new school tricks to achieve maximum performance.
In 1966, the Jeepster Commando came on the scene. The utility vehicle–released by Kaiser Jeep–possessed a breezy attitude and design. It was a Jeep designed for light outdoor excursions. And it was a cool ride that was poised to grab a slice of the SUV market away from the Ford Bronco and Toyotas Land Cruiser.
If you’re not familiar with the Jeepster Commando, it is likely because–well–it wasn’t exactly a hit. This wasn’t a failure on the Commando design, because frankly it is a great little rig.
But, compared to other Jeep models, it was lacking in overall versatility. Capability was also a mixed bag, with some models making only 70 hp. Jeep only manufactured 57,350 Jeepsters from 1966 to 1971. So, to find one for sale is pretty rare. To find a restomod Jeepster Commando that was built to thrill is even more difficult.
But we found one, and it is awesome.
Currently listed for sale at Bring a Trailer, this 1970 Jeepster Commando is a genius build. The silver bullet is being offered for sale by the owner, who spent seven years modifying the classic.
Among the most notable changes is the power. Swapping out the Jeepster’s F-head Hurricane straight four-cylinder for a Chevy 350ci TBI V8, this SUV has a solid small block. It is paired to an NP435 four-speed manual transmission and an Atlas dual-range transfer case.
Additional upgrades include Howell throttle-body fuel injection aluminum radiator, dual Optima red-top batteries, EZ wiring harness, Novak adapter kit, Atlas dual-range transfer case. Also, it has a Dana 44 front axle and semi-floating Dana 60 rear axle donated from a Jeep Wagoneer.
Both the interior and exterior have been redone. Inside the gray and black is crisp and cool, and creature comforts include Vintage Air climate control system, custom center console, Alpine stereo with USB connectivity and components from JL Audio, Soundstream, and Pioneer. A bit of an upgrade from 1970.
Clearly, the owner is a Jeep fan, and made all the right choices as a driver. Not only does the Commando look bad to the bone, it really is. Build components have made this a brute on the road, and definitely off-road.
It rides on American Racing wheels and Toyo Open Country M/T tires, and has custom leaf-spring suspension and power-assisted front discs and rear drums. In addition to all that, there is a six-point roll cage and LED lighting. Each detail enhances the Jeepster perfectly, increasing its versatility and its visibility.
Coming across a rare Jeepster Commando is awesome. And this one is especially irresistible. We always appreciate the effort put into keeping classic Jeeps on the road.
Photos: Bring a Trailer
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