The 1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer remains a permanent fixture in the landscape of premium American off-road history. While many of its contemporaries focused on utility, Jeep pioneered the concept of a high-end family cruiser with these wood-paneled legends. This specific example underwent a comprehensive refurbishment completed in 2022. It successfully blends the nostalgic charm of the eighties with modern mechanical reliability. Every detail reflects a commitment to keeping this four-wheel-drive icon on the road for years to come.
Exterior Refinement and Dark Honey Metallic Style
The exterior of this 1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer showcases a deep Dark Honey Metallic finish paired with traditional faux-woodgrain trim. During the restoration, the selling dealer replaced the grille, headlights, and various door seals to ensure a fresh look. Brightwork across the mirrors, bumpers, and roof rack has been refreshed to provide a sharp contrast. Although some panels show slight shade variations, the overall presentation is remarkably clean. It carries the quintessential silhouette that collectors immediately recognize from the peak of the SJ platform era.
Chassis Upgrades and Road Handling
Riding on 15-inch multi-spoke wheels with gold accents, this truck offers a smooth and confident posture. The suspension now features new shock absorbers and wheel bearings to improve the traditional ride quality. Stopping power has been significantly upgraded through the installation of four-wheel power-assisted disc brakes. These improvements make the 1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer far more capable in modern traffic than its original factory configuration. Thin-whitewall Toyo tires complete the period-correct look while providing reliable all-season traction for the driver.
Interior Luxury and Sound Insulation
The cabin is a standout feature, finished in Honey leather with patterned cloth inserts for a warm atmosphere. New carpets, a fresh headliner, and a replacement heater core ensure the interior feels like new. Technicians applied sound-deadening material throughout the floors to create a quieter, more isolated driving environment. Modern amenities include a Bluetooth-capable Pioneer head unit and a trailer brake controller for added utility. While the cruise control is currently inoperable, the power-adjustable seats and air conditioning provide ample comfort for all passengers.
Modern Controls and Electronic Fuel Injection
Drivers interact with a replacement leather-wrapped steering wheel mounted on a convenient tilting column. A Holley EFI control module is positioned centrally on the dashboard for easy monitoring of engine data. The instrument cluster remains classic, housing a 100-mph speedometer and vital gauges for oil pressure and voltage. With 85,000 miles on the odometer, the vehicle shows a level of preservation that is becoming increasingly rare. This interior layout effectively bridges the gap between vintage style and contemporary user interfaces.
V8 Performance and Mechanical Specifications
The mechanical heart of this 1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a rebuilt 360ci V8 engine. It now features Holley Sniper electronic fuel injection and Edelbrock aluminum cylinder heads for superior efficiency. Performance is further enhanced by a high-volume oil pump, tubular headers, and an Edelbrock camshaft. Power reaches the wheels through a rebuilt three-speed automatic transmission and a Trac-Lok rear differential. This setup produces a reliable and powerful torque curve that makes towing or highway cruising effortless for the next owner.
Summary of the Grand Wagoneer Build
The 1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a rare find that combines a high-quality aesthetic with significant mechanical investments. From the rebuilt drivetrain to the updated EFI system, it addresses the common shortcomings of vintage carbureted engines. The iconic woodgrain panels and Honey leather interior create a sense of nostalgia that few modern SUVs can replicate. It represents an excellent opportunity for a collector who wants a turn-key classic for their next adventure. This Jeep is ready to reclaim its place as the king of the driveway.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
