1985 Jeep Scrambler CJ8 - Rust Free California Jeep

1985 Jeep Scrambler.  Rot free California Jeep.  Aside from the elusive 1986 Scrambler with just 1 confirmed found in the United States, the 1985 is the rarest and most sought after CJ8.  Production numbers for the 1985 were approximately 2,000 units.  Rust-free 1985 survivors in this condition are few and far between.

This Scrambler began it's life as a US Forest Service vehicle.  Being said, California CJs with the 258 CID motor are known for having serpentine belt setups.  Since this Jeep was a GOV vehicle, it was exempt from emissions standards and therefore received the standard v-belts.  The factory color of this Jeep was Forest Service Green, which if you look closely at the photo of the VIN tag on the firewall you can see specs of it where the black paint has flaked off.  How cool would it be to restore this back to Forest Service green, add "Smokey the Bear" Decals and give it the look it was originally created to be!

I bought this Jeep from the long time owner who resided in CA and NV, both known for dry climates. This Jeep does not have any rot, just superficial surface rust on the frame and bottom of the tub.  When I say superficial, I mean extremely light surface rust.  This Jeep has zero body work performed on it. See photos!

This Jeep is equipped with the desirable T-176 transmission, which is known to be one of the most stout and highly sought after transmissions Jeep CJ's came with.  The 258 runs incredibly strong.  The transmission shifts effortlessly and the transfer case engages/disengages into 4WD like it did when new.  All factory gauges work properly.  Great driving Jeep....truly a joy to drive!

The inside of the Jeep is very nice. The OEM original high-back seats are in very nice condition with no tears.  The floor boards are super clean with no rust.  The bed of this Scrambler had a piece of plywood cut and placed into it to keep the bed in very nice condition.  Not sure who removed the OEM bulkhead (divider piece to separate the cab from the bed), but it came to me without one.  If you're interested in getting a bulkhead, I have a very nice one I can sell separately.  The Jeep has factory AC which blows, but does not blow cold so it'll need a service.

The Jeep was used for mild off-road by the previous owner.  Being said, it does have some dents and dings on the bottom of the rockers which are very repairable.  The driver side front fender also has a dent in it.  These dents are nothing major and depending on what you do with this vehicle, you might not even have any interest in repairing them.  If you decide to pull the dents it's easy work by a reputable body shop.

The only issues I know about this Jeep are the rocker panel / front bumper dents, the driver side door glass does not close all the way (open door panel and figure out what's going on) and it sometimes has a sticky choke.  A spray of carburetor cleaner and this Jeep starts right up and runs excellent, but when the choke sticks it sometimes has a hard time idling without a little gas on the pedal.  When the choke is functioning as it should, it idles perfectly.  Being said, I have a nice carburetor (OEM Carter BBD) that worked excellent when I removed it from a Jeep a couple years ago and will be happy to throw in with the sale.  The soft top is an old-school Kayline full top that is in decent shape.  It's 30+ years old and functions.  The Kayline soft top has some makeshift repairs, but overall a very presentable appearance. The jerry can mount seen on the spare tire of the first picture is the only item that does not come with the Jeep.

I aim to be as transparent as possible when I sell anything.  I've listed everything about this Jeep as thoroughly as possible.  Remember, this Jeep is almost 35 years old and though I know Jeeps pretty well, there could be something very minor I'm missing.  The Scrambler was recently ranked as one of the most sought after collector vehicles.  I'm open to offers, but please be reasonable as it is already priced very well.  Thanks for looking!  Call me at 520-789-0875 with any questions. 

$500 non-refundable deposit due immediately via PayPal.  The balance is due within 3 business days via cash, bank wire, or cashier's check only.  Vehicle is expected to be picked up within 3 weeks of purchase.  Though I trust this vehicle to drive across the country, it is old and things can and do break.  Being said, if you want to fly in I'll be happy to pick you up from the airport, buy you lunch, and take you to my house where this Jeep resides so you can drive it home.  If you need assistance with transport, I have a very reliable transporter with very reasonable shipping costs.  Lastly, since this Jeep comes with a tow bar you can drive to my house, drink a beer with me, and tow your new Scrambler home.