'69 Jeepster Commando

It may not have served in the military, but this 1969 Jeepster Commando was built to storm the southwest. Purchased in 1980, the Jeepster was stock and badly wrecked before owners Lyle and Leona Schrader began to arm it for trail service. The Schraders teach at an automotive technology school in Colorado, so they have a good idea about what kinds of modifications are needed for trail duty. The original components weren’t up for the four-wheeling missions the Schraders had planned. Lockers, a more compliant suspension, larger tires, and more power were some of the preparations needed for assaults on the heavily armed, rocky terrain. Lyle designed and built the rollcage, nerf bars, and rear bumper to protect the Jeepster and its occupants from surprise attacks from the rocks. The bobbed front fenders as well as the rest of the Jeepster are sprayed with 1988 Chevy-pickup medium red. Durabek is applied to the interior.

The Commando gives the Schraders more room in the back than a standard CJ, so toting extra trail gear isn’t a problem. And the extra wheelbase helps to make short work of inclines. Check out this Jeepster’s arsenal.