Few vehicles embody the adventurous spirit of the American off-road lifestyle like the Jeep® CJ-8 Scrambler. Originally introduced as a pickup-style variant of the popular CJ-7, the CJ-8 offered a longer wheelbase and expanded cargo capacity while maintaining the iconic Jeep look and feel. Now, four decades later, one of the most meticulously reimagined examples—known as “ANV-JS2”—is set to cross the auction block.
Built by Blacksmith Garage of Eden, Utah, this 1984 CJ-8 represents the pinnacle of a frame-off, every-nut-and-bolt restoration—a project that bridges vintage Jeep toughness with modern refinement. The result is a vehicle capable of everything from relaxed freeway cruising at 80 mph to tackling Moab’s red-rock trails, or simply heading out for a Sunday ice-cream run with the top down.
The Vision Behind “ANV-JS2” –
The CJ-8 Scrambler featured a 103-inch wheelbase, roughly ten inches longer than its CJ-7 sibling, providing a smoother ride and extra room for both passengers and cargo. Blacksmith Garage, a shop renowned for its high-end restomod craftsmanship, recognized the Scrambler as the ideal foundation for a versatile Jeep that combines modern comfort and reliability.
Before the first wrench was turned, the donor Scrambler was fully disassembled, cataloged, and stripped down to bare components. From there, the team committed to an uncompromising body-off-frame (BoF) restoration, ensuring that every piece was rebuilt, refinished, or replaced to better-than-factory condition.
Chassis and Powertrain Engineering –
The original frame was stripped, sandblasted, epoxy-primed with PPG DP90, and coated with Raptor Liner for maximum durability. Under the hood, the Jeep’s heart remains its legendary 4.2-liter (258 cubic-inch) AMC I6, chosen over a crate engine for its balance of torque, sound, and character.
The engine was rebuilt with ARP head bolts, a Comp Cams camshaft, and a new cylinder head, followed by the installation of the Mopar Performance Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) kit. A CARB-approved long-tube header, paired with a custom stainless-steel exhaust, Magnaflow muffler, and new catalytic converter, delivers both power and compliance.
Compression readings showed remarkable uniformity—between 155 and 160 psi across all six cylinders—indicating an exceptionally healthy engine. Supporting components include a high-capacity aluminum radiator, new hoses, and a fresh thermostat. The drivetrain has been upgraded with 4.56:1 gearing, a Dana front axle equipped with Warn locking hubs, and a Ford 9-inch rear axle featuring a spool-style locker.
To modernize reliability and safety, a new Painless Performance wiring harness replaced the outdated factory system.
Transmission and Drivetrain Upgrades –
The Scrambler’s original 4-speed manual gearbox was replaced with a 700R4 automatic transmission, renowned for its strength and overdrive capability. Blacksmith Garage paired it with Novak adapters, a new torque converter, and a B&M floor shifter, routing power through a refurbished Dana 300 transfer case fitted with twin-stick shifters.
Custom-length Tom Woods driveshafts ensure precise alignment and durability. Together, this setup gives the ANV-JS2 a rare dual personality—comfortable and smooth at highway speeds, yet perfectly geared for off-road control.
Suspension, Steering, and Braking Systems –
The Scrambler’s suspension combines capability and comfort, starting with 3-inch lift leaf springs, refinished and fitted with polyurethane bushings. Skyjacker shocks complete the setup, balancing on-road composure with off-road flexibility. Steering has been modernized with a new Advantage steering box and OEM-spec tie-rod ends for improved precision and feedback.
A rear disc brake conversion was added to complement the factory front discs, which received new rotors, calipers, and pads. Freshly refinished 15×10-inch steel wheels in black PPG paint are wrapped in aggressive 35×12.50R15 BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain tires, giving the Jeep a confident stance and sure-footed traction on any surface.
Exterior Craftsmanship –
The body restoration is where the ANV-JS2 truly stands apart. The worn original tub was replaced with a new steel Rugged Ridge body. At the same time, the front clip was stripped to bare metal, inspected, and refinished in PPG Envirobase Python Green—a striking Porsche color that’s both bold and tasteful. The inner tub and underbody were treated with Raptor Liner, creating a rugged, easy-to-clean surface.
A 3-inch polyurethane body lift provides an assertive stance, complemented by Rusty’s Off-Road bumpers, a Stegodon 9,500-lb winch with color-matched synthetic line, and LED lighting from Sylvania and MetalCloak. Every exterior detail reinforces the Jeep’s dual mission: timeless design with modern capability.
Bespoke Interior –
Inside, the ANV-JS2 merges luxury craftsmanship with Jeep authenticity. The cabin, designed by Innovative Custom Interiors, features full-grain leather upholstery accented with Python Green contrast stitching—a nod to the exterior paint color. The detailing extends across the seats, door panels, steering wheel, and shifter boots, blending sophistication with rugged appeal.
A custom carpet kit, new black dash pad, and Tuffy locking glovebox maintain the clean, functional layout. A Dakota Digital analog-style gauge cluster updates instrumentation with precision and clarity. Modern amenities include a Retro Manufacturing stereo, Rockford Fosgate speakers, and a discreetly positioned Cerwin-Vega subwoofer under the rear seat.
Comfort comes from a Jeep Air HVAC system and a Bestop soft top, which can be configured as a full, bikini, or open-air setup. Safety is ensured by three-point front belts and rear lap belts, creating a cabin that is both refined and functional.
A One-of-One Masterpiece –
Blacksmith Garage’s ANV-JS2 is not just a restored Jeep—it’s a reimagined classic, a modern-day tribute to one of the most versatile off-roaders ever built. Every mechanical, aesthetic, and ergonomic detail has been painstakingly engineered to create a vehicle capable of excelling on the trail, the highway, or the show field.
This unique Scrambler stands as a one-of-one build, a flawless blend of Jeep heritage and modern craftsmanship. It’s the kind of vehicle that can be driven daily, yet still earns respect at any concours or off-road gathering.
Auction Information –
The 1984 Jeep CJ-8 “ANV-JS2” has been consigned to the Classic Car Auction Group’s Online Classic Car Auction, taking place on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. EDT. The sale is conducted online, allowing bidders nationwide to participate remotely.
1984 Jeep® CJ-8 Scrambler ANV-JS2 Image Gallery:
