1981 Jeep Scrambler

1981 Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler - First-Year Model, Rebuilt Driver

Offered here is a first-year example of the Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler, the long-wheelbase version of the CJ-7 produced from 1981 to 1986. With only 8,355 Scramblers built in 1981 and just 27,000 total across all years, these Jeeps have become highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts over the last few years.

This Scrambler was purchased in San Antonio and underwent a rebuild in 2012. Since then, it has been driven only 1,500 miles and has been in the care of the same owner for the last 12 years. Presented in driver condition, this Jeep is well-sorted mechanically with thoughtful upgrades while maintaining its rugged character.

Power comes from a strong 350 V8 paired with a Holley carburetor, custom Flowmaster exhaust, and a B&M shifter connected to the Dana 300 transfer case. Supporting components include a new gearbox and linkage, power tilt steering, power brakes, and a new 15-gallon fuel tank. A 2.5-inch suspension lift, custom rear bumper with trailer hitch, and 15-inch wheels with oversized tires complete the package. The frame was blasted and painted during the rebuild, and the tub was Rhino-lined for durability.

The interior is equipped with Bestop seats, a Tuffy lockable center console, and a Sony marine-grade stereo system. The Jeep is offered with a bikini top and without doors for a true open-air experience.

Recent Maintenance by Jeep Masters in Austin, TX:


Cooling fan connections cleaned

New steering wheel column cover

New starter

One new tire installed

New power steering return hose

Power steering pump leak repaired

New thermostat

New power steering gearbox

New 15-gallon gas tank installed

New fuel filter

Carburetor adjusted and cleaned

Fresh oil and fluid change

New horn button installed

New headlight switch installed

New steering wheel

Transfer case seal replaced

Front differential pinion seal replaced

Rear axle bearings and seals replaced

Front drive axle inner seals replaced

New e-brake installed

New wiper switch installed


This Scrambler is a driver-quality Jeep with solid mechanicals and recent service, ready to be enjoyed on or off the road. It starts easily, runs strong, and benefits from major service and upgrades performed by Jeep Masters in Austin. Noted quirks include a non-functioning fuel gauge and an inaccurate speedometer reading due to oversized tires. All paintwork, chrome and glass are in great condition. Cosmetically, it presents well and shows as a Jeep meant to be driven and enjoyed rather than stored away. Paint does show some imperfections throughout including some bubbling on the driver front fender.

Features:
First-year 1981 Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler
Rebuilt in 2012 with only 1,500 miles since
Chevrolet 350 V8 engine with Holley carburetor
Custom Flowmaster exhaust system
Turbo TH350 3-speed automatic transmission
Dana 300 transfer case
Front locking hubs
B&M floor shifter
Power tilt steering
Power brakes
New gearbox and linkage
New 15-gallon fuel tank
2.5-inch suspension lift
Frame blasted and painted during rebuild
Rhino-lined tub
Chrome front bumper
Custom rear bumper with trailer hitch
15-inch rims
32-inch BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A tires
Spare wheel/tire mounted on back with cover
Bikini top included
Bestop vinyl bucket seats
Bestop vinyl bench seat
Tuffy center console
3-spoke steering wheel
New gauges
Sony marine stereo system with CD player
Owned by same caretaker for 12 years
Offered without doors
Tow hitch

This 1981 CJ-8 Scrambler is now available for sale by V Fine Motorcars in Austin, TX. Contact us today!