Jeep Commando For Sale: Find Yours Now!
Jeep Commando for Sale: Find the Perfect Classic Ride
Are you looking for a classic Jeep Commando for sale? You've come to the right place. The Jeep Commando, produced from 1966 to 1973, is a unique and capable vehicle that's become a favorite among collectors and off-road enthusiasts. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about finding the perfect Jeep Commando, from understanding its history and variations to tips for buying and maintaining one.
What is a Jeep Commando?
The Jeep Commando was introduced by Kaiser Jeep in 1966 as a competitor to the Ford Bronco and International Harvester Scout. It was designed to offer a more civilized and comfortable alternative to the CJ series Jeeps while still providing Jeep's legendary off-road capability.
Brief History
The Commando went through several changes during its production run: — Days Until December 27th: Your Countdown Guide
- 1966-1971 (C-101): These early models featured a 101-inch wheelbase and were available in various body styles, including a pickup truck, convertible, roadster, and wagon.
- 1972-1973 (C-104): American Motors Corporation (AMC) acquired Kaiser Jeep in 1970 and redesigned the Commando with a more conventional front-end appearance, extending the wheelbase to 104 inches. This redesign was not well-received by enthusiasts, and production was discontinued after 1973.
Why Buy a Jeep Commando?
There are several reasons why a Jeep Commando might be the perfect vehicle for you:
- Classic Styling: The Commando's unique design sets it apart from other classic SUVs.
- Off-Road Capability: Like all Jeeps, the Commando is highly capable off-road.
- Collectibility: Early C-101 models are becoming increasingly collectible.
- Simplicity: The Commando is relatively simple to work on, making it a good choice for DIY mechanics.
Where to Find Jeep Commandos for Sale
Finding a Jeep Commando for sale may require some patience and research. Here are some of the best places to look: — 1400 Sq Ft House Plans: Smart Design Guide
Online Marketplaces
- ClassicCars.com: A great resource for finding classic cars, including Jeep Commandos. You can filter your search by year, price, and location.
- Hemmings: Another popular online marketplace for classic and vintage vehicles.
- eBay Motors: A wide variety of vehicles are listed on eBay, including Jeep Commandos. Be sure to check the seller's feedback and carefully review the listing details.
- Facebook Marketplace: A good place to find local listings. You can often find good deals, but be sure to inspect the vehicle in person before making a purchase.
Auctions
- Bring a Trailer: A popular online auction site for classic and collectible vehicles. Jeep Commandos occasionally appear on this site.
- Mecum Auctions: A well-known auction house that specializes in classic and collector cars. Check their schedule to see if any Jeep Commandos are coming up for auction.
Clubs and Forums
- Jeep Clubs: Local and national Jeep clubs are a great resource for finding vehicles for sale and connecting with other enthusiasts.
- Online Forums: Jeep-specific forums often have classified sections where members list vehicles for sale. Examples include JeepForum.com and CJ-3B.info (which also covers Commandos).
What to Look for When Buying a Jeep Commando
When buying a Jeep Commando, it's essential to do your homework and inspect the vehicle carefully. Here are some key things to look for:
Model Year and Body Style
- C-101 (1966-1971): These are the most desirable models among collectors. Decide which body style you prefer (pickup, convertible, roadster, or wagon).
- C-104 (1972-1973): These models are generally less expensive but still offer Jeep capability. They have a different front-end design that some find less appealing.
Rust and Body Condition
- Rust: This is the biggest enemy of classic vehicles. Check the floors, rocker panels, quarter panels, and frame for rust. Pay close attention to areas that are prone to trapping moisture.
- Body Damage: Look for signs of previous accidents or repairs. Check the body panels for dents, dings, and mismatched paint.
Mechanical Condition
- Engine: The Commando was available with several engines, including the Buick 225 V6 (Dauntless) and various inline-four and inline-six options. Check for leaks, unusual noises, and smooth operation.
- Transmission: The Commando was available with both manual and automatic transmissions. Check for smooth shifting and any signs of slippage.
- Four-Wheel Drive: Engage the four-wheel-drive system and make sure it engages properly. Check for unusual noises or vibrations.
Interior
- Upholstery: Check the condition of the seats, carpets, and headliner. Replacement upholstery is available, but it can be expensive.
- Gauges and Electrical: Make sure all gauges are working correctly. Check the lights, wipers, and other electrical components.
Paperwork
- Title: Make sure the seller has a clear title to the vehicle.
- Service Records: Ask for any service records or maintenance history. This can give you valuable insight into the vehicle's condition.
Tips for Buying a Jeep Commando
Here are some additional tips to help you find and buy the perfect Jeep Commando:
- Do Your Research: Learn as much as you can about the Commando, including its history, different models, and potential problems.
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend, including the purchase price, potential repairs, and ongoing maintenance costs.
- Inspect the Vehicle in Person: Don't buy a Commando sight unseen. Inspect the vehicle carefully, or have a trusted mechanic inspect it for you.
- Take a Test Drive: Drive the Commando to get a feel for how it handles and to check for any mechanical issues.
- Negotiate the Price: Don't be afraid to negotiate. Be prepared to walk away if the seller isn't willing to meet your price.
- Join a Jeep Club: Connecting with other Commando owners can provide valuable insights and advice.
Maintaining Your Jeep Commando
Once you've purchased your Jeep Commando, proper maintenance is essential to keep it running smoothly. Here are some tips:
Regular Maintenance
- Oil Changes: Change the oil and filter regularly, following the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Fluid Checks: Check and top off all fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.
- Tune-Ups: Perform regular tune-ups, including spark plug replacement and ignition timing adjustments.
- Lubrication: Lubricate chassis components, such as ball joints and U-joints.
Parts and Service
- Finding Parts: Parts for the Jeep Commando can be challenging to find, but many are available through online retailers, specialty parts suppliers, and Jeep clubs.
- Service Manuals: Invest in a service manual for your Commando. This will provide you with detailed information on repairs and maintenance procedures.
- Professional Service: If you're not comfortable performing repairs yourself, find a qualified mechanic who is familiar with classic Jeeps.
Preservation
- Storage: If you're not driving your Commando regularly, store it in a dry, covered location to protect it from the elements.
- Rust Prevention: Take steps to prevent rust, such as washing and waxing the vehicle regularly and applying rust inhibitors to vulnerable areas.
- Originality: If you're interested in preserving the Commando's value, try to maintain its original condition. Avoid modifications that can't be easily reversed.
Conclusion
The Jeep Commando is a unique and capable classic vehicle that offers a rewarding ownership experience. Whether you're looking for a weekend off-roader or a collectible classic, the Commando is worth considering. By doing your research, inspecting vehicles carefully, and following proper maintenance practices, you can find and enjoy your own Jeep Commando for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What years was the Jeep Commando produced?
The Jeep Commando was produced from 1966 to 1973.
2. What are the different body styles of the Jeep Commando?
The Jeep Commando was available in several body styles, including a pickup truck, convertible, roadster, and wagon (C-101 models). The C-104 models were primarily available as a wagon.
3. What engines were available in the Jeep Commando?
The Jeep Commando was available with several engines, including the Buick 225 V6 (Dauntless), inline-four, and inline-six options.
4. How can I find parts for my Jeep Commando?
You can find parts for your Jeep Commando through online retailers, specialty parts suppliers, and Jeep clubs. — Meerschaert Vs Oleksiejczuk: Fight Preview & Prediction
5. What should I look for when inspecting a Jeep Commando for sale?
Key things to look for include rust, body damage, mechanical condition, interior condition, and paperwork (title and service records).
6. Are Jeep Commandos good off-road vehicles?
Yes, Jeep Commandos are highly capable off-road vehicles, like all Jeeps.
7. What is the difference between the C-101 and C-104 Jeep Commando models?
The C-101 models (1966-1971) had a 101-inch wheelbase and were available in various body styles. The C-104 models (1972-1973) had a 104-inch wheelbase and a redesigned front end.