By Alex Cross
Gear & Industry Writer The Trailhead Network
In offroading, few names spark as much admiration and nostalgia as the Jeep Honcho. This rare gem, a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure, is a pinnacle of rugged beauty and offroad capability. The story of the Jeep Honcho is not just one of automotive history but a narrative that captures the essence of exploration and the relentless pursuit of freedom.
A Rare Breed: The Jeep Honcho Sportside
Born in an era when vehicles were designed with a bold character and an unapologetic attitude towards adventure, the Jeep Honcho was a standout model among the J-Series pickups. Its production spanned from 1980 to 1982, a brief period that, however, left an indelible mark on the offroad community. With only 1264 units ever made, the Jeep Honcho Sportside emerges not just as a rare find but as a collector’s dream.
Restoration to Perfection
The Jeep Honcho in focus has undergone a meticulous restoration process, elevating it from its original glory to a modern-day offroad titan. Restored to stage two standards, this Honcho boasts multipoint fuel injection, Bluetooth, hydro-boost, and four-disc brakes, blending classic aesthetics with contemporary performance enhancements.
The restoration journey took the vehicle to its bare frame, sandblasted, galvanized, and powder-coated to ensure it would never succumb to rust. The body, treated to the highest standards of media blasting, metalizing, and painting, shines as a beacon of meticulous craftsmanship. The drivetrain was not left behind, receiving a comprehensive upgrade to an AMC 401 engine, the largest ever made by AMC in those days.
Aesthetic and Mechanical Marvel
Sitting proudly on a 6-inch suspension lift in the back and a 4-inch lift in the front, this Honcho accommodates the original Goodyear 37-inch MTR tires, a nod to its storied past. The shift to BF Goodrich All Terrain, 35×12.5×15 inch tires, reflects a commitment to adaptability and performance. Inside, the Jeep dazzles with Laredo-style high bucket seats and full leather treatment, enveloping passengers in luxury that belies its rugged exterior.
The full stainless steel exhaust system ensures that this Honcho not only looks phenomenal but also sounds great. With around 35k miles since its restoration, it stands ready to embark on new adventures, embodying the spirit of offroading with every mile.
A Collector’s Dream
Priced at $145,000, this Jeep Honcho is not merely a vehicle; it’s an investment in history, adventure, and the unmatched joy of driving a legend. It represents an opportunity to own a piece of offroad heritage, a machine that carries the stories of past explorers within its frame and invites new ones with open doors.
The Jeep Honcho Sportside is more than just a rare find; it symbolizes the offroad community’s passion, resilience, and undying love for the open trail. Its restoration to modern standards, while preserving the essence that made it iconic, offers a unique blend of nostalgia and performance. For those who dream of traversing untamed landscapes and making their mark on offroad trails, the Jeep Honcho is a beacon of inspiration and a call to adventure.
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- Website: The Trailhead Network
- Email: Alex@thetrailheadnetwork.com
- Phone: (719) 408-0132
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