With the end in sight, Mike pressed on with his custom skidplate/storage box combination underneath and the custom six-point rollcage inside. He then custom-built the rear bumper as well as the front towbar, which mounts through the original chrome bumper. After installing the new carpet, the seats, and the console, Mike took the Commando to the paint shop where the interior was sealed off and two thick coats of DuPont Centari Oxford White were laid down, along with a little orange peel on the hood.
This Jeepster was not only brought back from the brink of ruin, it was given a new life. And as the classic it is, this Commando will be drawing looks on every trail it tames.
SpecificationsVehicle: '69 Jeepster Commando
Owner: Mike Childs
Engine: Buick 225 V-6
Induction: Rochester two-barrel carb
Transmission: SM420 four-speed with 7.05:1 FirstTransfer case: Dana 20 with a Tera Low 3.15 gear kit
Frontend: Dana 30 with Detroit E-Z locker
Rearend: Dana 44 with Detroit Soft Locke
Ring-and-Pinion: 4.27
Suspension: Springover conversion with 2-inch arched springs; dual Explorer Pro Comp 3000 shocks front and rear; front shackle reversal; Con-Ferr rear shackles
Tires/wheels: 33x12.50 BFG Mud Terrains/10x15 steelies powder-coated white
Added features: Custom skid- plate/storage box units; a six-point rollcage; a custom rear bumper; a custom front towbar; polished drivelines; a modified heater box; custom axle trusses; a custom Aero 23-gallon gas tank; Auto Meter gauges; an 11-inch brake con-version; and a heavy-duty radiator