Maybe it was the rumble of the V-8, maybe it was the custom-built bed rack and tent, but either way, this 1988 Jeep Comanche build hooked our attention. Andrew Englert told us how the Comanche does a fine job of satisfying his needs for gnarly trails as well as extended time away from pavement. Normal trips for Andrew and the MJ often include 1,000-mile pushes on the highway, multiple days of hard-core wheeling, and driving right back—no trailers. Here's how the 1988 Comanche makes it happen.
Engine
There are six liters of oozing-with-torque V-8 action under the hood (dimple-died for easier breathing). The LQ4 sends its power through the 4L60 transmission before it's split up at the NP205 transfer case. A NorthWest Fab Black Box is on tap for extra gear reduction. We've heard this MNJ can even squeeze out 10 mpg on the highway!
Wheels and Tires
Method wheels and Toyo Open Country mud-terrains sized 37x13.50R17LT sit between the 1988 Comanche and the trails.
Axles and Armor
Up front, Andrew has a Dodge Dana 60 filled with 5.13 gears and a Yukon Grizzly locker. His 14-bolt rearend has been shaved for extra clearance, trussed, and holds a Torq locker. Every piece of armor from the rocksliders to the tucked-up belly has been expertly fabricated to keep the powertrain safe from offending obstacles while maintain a low and stable stance.
Suspension
The 1988 Comanche relies on coilovers and bumpstops from Locked Off-Road to articulate the front axle, which get about 17 inches of travel. By moving his shackles back about 6 inches from their original mounting point, Andrew was able to make Chevy 63-inch leaf springs work for the build while gaining a half-inch of lift and more load capacity. Bilstein piggyback shocks are on board for damping.
But Can The Comanche Overland?
Yes! Andrew's rollcage ties in smoothly with the custom-fabbed bumpers and lifting bed rack that supports his CVT tent. You'll also find an ARB fridge/freezer, onboard air, a fullsize spare tire, and extra fuel and fluids. There's even a functioning sun roof! Follow this rig's adventures (and other RAD over-crawl-land machines) on Instagram at @filthyaddictionsoffroad.
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