1988 Jeep Comanche Chief

[JustinStelter]

Just bought a 1988 Jeep Comanche Chief. This is very similar to the first Comanche I bought when I turned 16. If my wife found out I bought this Comanche, she would think I'm in a mid-life crisis. Can't tell her until I find a new place to sleep.

The Comanche seems to be in fairly good shape for its age. Here are my questions:

 

1. As I begin to make minor repairs, should I seek original parts (when available), high performance parts, or just standard parts available at a local parts store?

2. What can I do to the 4.0 engine within reason to maximize performance?

3. What does the VIN tell me/you about my Comanche: 1JTMR63S8JT077852?

 

My goal is to keep this Comanche as original as possible, but to install simple, easily reversible upgrades like: 

 

K & N air filter?

2" suspension lift 

upgraded stereo system

brush guard

tint windows

3/8 or 1/2 inch wheel spacers

solid, one piece lug nuts

headers?

LED foglights?

Remote entry/start?

Rollbar?

Rhino line the undercarriage?

 

More specifically, right now, the Comanche needs (please recommend original, performance, or standard):

 

1. battery cables

2. starter

3. shocks

4. complete tune up

5. brakes

6. lights (LED or original?)

 

Thank you in advance for you advice. 

 

Sincerely,

 

Justin, aka Comanche Lover for Life

(615) 596-1696

[Siopposition]

I know I'm in socal. But I just got a 88. Parts truck lemme know if u need anything original and maybe we can work something out. I'm using some parts, but lots left to choose from

 

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using Tapatalk

[Siopposition]

Scuse me a 89. Not an 88

 

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using Tapatalk

[87MJTIM]

You need to perform the cruiser54 procedures on your Renix.  www.cruiser54.com

 

Welcome (again) to the insanity that is ComancheClub.   :cheers:

[Whiz]

1. battery cables  -   I recently replaced my battery cables with custom cut Marine wire from http://www.genuinedealz.com/ Total was about $50 shipped,  Plenty of options on colors etc.  Love my Marine terminals.  Got the lengths needed from another site.  I know on Crusiers tips he has a company listed to order from as well.  I would also recommend adding a Headlight harness (also in Cruisers tips) at the same time. 

[MeanLemons]

I sent you a pm

[JustinStelter]

You need to perform the cruiser54 procedures on your Renix.  www.cruiser54.com

 

Welcome (again) to the insanity that is ComancheClub.   :cheers:

Cruiser's tips are great. 

Do you know if he or anyone else has created a comprehensive list of tips for upgrading the 4.0L engine to a stroker engine?

Thank you in advance,

 

Justin

[Eagle]

There's an entire forum dedicated to the 4.0L stroker engines. I've lost the link to it but I'm sure Hornbrod has it.

[HOrnbrod]

Hornbrod does have it:  https://www.jeepstrokers.com/forum/index.php

 

OP, why is your avatar upside-down?

[johnj92131]

 

Just bought a 1988 Jeep Comanche Chief. This is very similar to the first Comanche I bought when I turned 16. If my wife found out I bought this Comanche, she would think I'm in a mid-life crisis. Can't tell her until I find a new place to sleep.

The Comanche seems to be in fairly good shape for its age. Here are my questions:

 

1. As I begin to make minor repairs, should I seek original parts (when available), high performance parts, or just standard parts available at a local parts store?

2. What can I do to the 4.0 engine within reason to maximize performance?

3. What does the VIN tell me/you about my Comanche: 1JTMR63S8JT077852?

 

My goal is to keep this Comanche as original as possible, but to install simple, easily reversible upgrades like: 

 

K & N air filter?

2" suspension lift 

upgraded stereo system

brush guard

tint windows

3/8 or 1/2 inch wheel spacers

solid, one piece lug nuts

headers?

LED foglights?

Remote entry/start?

Rollbar?

Rhino line the undercarriage?

 

More specifically, right now, the Comanche needs (please recommend original, performance, or standard):

 

1. battery cables

2. starter

3. shocks

4. complete tune up

5. brakes

6. lights (LED or original?)

 

Thank you in advance for you advice. 

 

Sincerely,

 

Justin, aka Comanche Lover for Life

(615) 596-1696

 

 

1.  Battery Cable upgrade.  Cost should be around $100 if you buy a good kit.  These old trucks have electrical problems, so start with new upgraded cables.  Then go do Cruiser's upgrades/checks.

2.  Starter:  If the one you have is working - keep it.  If it needs replaced - get a good, locally rebuilt one.  I just did this today $65

3.  Shocks:  I would put this off till just a bit later.  More important things to do first.

 

4.  Complete tune up:  This is quick and easy.  New plugs, new wires, etc.  The second thing to do - after you check all you brakes.

5.  Brakes:  The very first thing you should take care of.  Check them for wear and good operating condition.  Fix as required.

6.  Lights.  LED lights are nice.  TruckLite headlamps are GREAT!  Spend the money on them.  TRUST Me on this.  Just Do It.  Other lights can be converted as you go along.  Most are inexpensive.

7.  Tires.  You did not mention this, but you have to have good tires.  Don't need fancy wheels.  But your need good Brakes and Tires.

[johnj92131]

 

 

OP, why is your avatar upside-down?

 

Maybe trying to tell us he ROLLED his first Comanche?????

[HOrnbrod]

Which one? It looks like there are eight MJs in the signature.   :hmm:  I'm confused.......

[JustinStelter]

Hornbrod does have it:  https://www.jeepstrokers.com/forum/index.php

 

OP, why is your avatar upside-down?

Brilliant link. Thank you.

[JustinStelter]

Which one? It looks like there are eight MJs in the signature.   :hmm:  I'm confused.......

Picture is upside down both for practical and symbolic reasons. Practical--I can't figure out how to get the thing right side up; Symbolic--rolled my second Jeep Comanche spring break, circa 1995.

[JustinStelter]

 

 

Just bought a 1988 Jeep Comanche Chief. This is very similar to the first Comanche I bought when I turned 16. If my wife found out I bought this Comanche, she would think I'm in a mid-life crisis. Can't tell her until I find a new place to sleep.

The Comanche seems to be in fairly good shape for its age. Here are my questions:

 

1. As I begin to make minor repairs, should I seek original parts (when available), high performance parts, or just standard parts available at a local parts store?

2. What can I do to the 4.0 engine within reason to maximize performance?

3. What does the VIN tell me/you about my Comanche: 1JTMR63S8JT077852?

 

My goal is to keep this Comanche as original as possible, but to install simple, easily reversible upgrades like: 

 

K & N air filter?

2" suspension lift 

upgraded stereo system

brush guard

tint windows

3/8 or 1/2 inch wheel spacers

solid, one piece lug nuts

headers?

LED foglights?

Remote entry/start?

Rollbar?

Rhino line the undercarriage?

 

More specifically, right now, the Comanche needs (please recommend original, performance, or standard):

 

1. battery cables

2. starter

3. shocks

4. complete tune up

5. brakes

6. lights (LED or original?)

 

Thank you in advance for you advice. 

 

Sincerely,

 

Justin, aka Comanche Lover for Life

(615) 596-1696

 

 

1.  Battery Cable upgrade.  Cost should be around $100 if you buy a good kit.  These old trucks have electrical problems, so start with new upgraded cables.  Then go do Cruiser's upgrades/checks.

2.  Starter:  If the one you have is working - keep it.  If it needs replaced - get a good, locally rebuilt one.  I just did this today $65

3.  Shocks:  I would put this off till just a bit later.  More important things to do first.6

 

4.  Complete tune up:  This is quick and easy.  New plugs, new wires, etc.  The second thing to do - after you check all you brakes.

5.  Brakes:  The very first thing you should take care of.  Check them for wear and good operating condition.  Fix as required.

6.  Lights.  LED lights are nice.  TruckLite headlamps are GREAT!  Spend the money on them.  TRUST Me on this.  Just Do It.  Other lights can be converted as you go along.  Most are inexpensive.

7.  Tires.  You did not mention this, but you have to have good tires.  Don't need fancy wheels.  But your need good Brakes and Tires.

 

Thank you very much.

 

1. Battery cables ordered.

2. I've been told the starter can't be rebuilt; parts not available. I'll check into that.

3. Good advice, will wait. Hoping to install a 2" or 2.5" suspension lift in the near future. Am being told I simply need to adjust torsion bars in front and move rear leaf springs over axle in rear to acheive this. Sounds simple?

4. Tune up in near future. Degreased engine today. Afterward, truck wouldn't start. Waiting on new battery cables, then will perform several of Cruiser's tips. Hopefully will starts afterwards.

5. Once I get it cleaned and running, will take to local tire shop for complete brake inspection.

6. Thanks for the advice. Will look at Trucklite headlamps as soon as I finish this post. One of Cruiser's tips was to upgrade headlight connectors, so this makes sense to dovetail.

7. Tires are great.

[Eagle]

Symbolic--rolled my second Jeep Comanche spring break, circa 1995.

 

 

 That right there is grounds for a lifetime ban from the Comanche Club. :laughin:  :banana: :yes:

[JustinStelter]

 

Symbolic--rolled my second Jeep Comanche spring break, circa 1995.

 

 

 That right there is grounds for a lifetime ban from the Comanche Club. :laughin:  :banana: :yes:

 

I created the signature listing all the Comanches I've owned in hopes that the Club would take pitty on me and allow my membership despite my sometimes novice driving skills.

[JustinStelter]

Scuse me a 89. Not an 88

 

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using Tapatalk

Do you happen to have a vented window for the passenger side? Also, if it's an automatic, I'm looking for the transmission shifter shield.

Thanks,

 

Justin

(615) 596-1696

[Siopposition]

 

Scuse me a 89. Not an 88

 

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using Tapatalk

Do you happen to have a vented window for the passenger side? Also, if it's an automatic, I'm looking for the transmission shifter shield.

Thanks,

 

Justin

(615) 596-1696

I don't have the vent window, but I do have the auto shift cover.

 

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using Tapatalk

[JustinStelter]

 

 

Scuse me a 89. Not an 88

 

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using Tapatalk

Do you happen to have a vented window for the passenger side? Also, if it's an automatic, I'm looking for the transmission shifter shield.

Thanks,

 

Justin

(615) 596-1696

I don't have the vent window, but I do have the auto shift cover.

 

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using Tapatalk

 

Is it in good shape? If so, how much? Do you have a picture of it?

[desbennett004]

 

 

Just bought a 1988 Jeep Comanche Chief. This is very similar to the first Comanche I bought when I turned 16. If my wife found out I bought this Comanche, she would think I'm in a mid-life crisis. Can't tell her until I find a new place to sleep.

The Comanche seems to be in fairly good shape for its age. Here are my questions:

1. As I begin to make minor repairs, should I seek original parts (when available), high performance parts, or just standard parts available at a local parts store?

2. What can I do to the 4.0 engine within reason to maximize performance?

3. What does the VIN tell me/you about my Comanche: 1JTMR63S8JT077852?

My goal is to keep this Comanche as original as possible, but to install simple, easily reversible upgrades like:

K & N air filter?

2" suspension lift

upgraded stereo system

brush guard

tint windows

3/8 or 1/2 inch wheel spacers

solid, one piece lug nuts

headers?

LED foglights?

Remote entry/start?

Rollbar?

Rhino line the undercarriage?

More specifically, right now, the Comanche needs (please recommend original, performance, or standard):

1. battery cables

2. starter

3. shocks

4. complete tune up

5. brakes

6. lights (LED or original?)

Thank you in advance for you advice.

Sincerely,

Justin, aka Comanche Lover for Life

(615) 596-1696

 

1. Battery Cable upgrade. Cost should be around $100 if you buy a good kit. These old trucks have electrical problems, so start with new upgraded cables. Then go do Cruiser's upgrades/checks.

2. Starter: If the one you have is working - keep it. If it needs replaced - get a good, locally rebuilt one. I just did this today $65

3. Shocks: I would put this off till just a bit later. More important things to do first.6

 

4. Complete tune up: This is quick and easy. New plugs, new wires, etc. The second thing to do - after you check all you brakes.

5. Brakes: The very first thing you should take care of. Check them for wear and good operating condition. Fix as required.

6. Lights. LED lights are nice. TruckLite headlamps are GREAT! Spend the money on them. TRUST Me on this. Just Do It. Other lights can be converted as you go along. Most are inexpensive.

7. Tires. You did not mention this, but you have to have good tires. Don't need fancy wheels. But your need good Brakes and Tires.

Thank you very much.

 

1. Battery cables ordered.

2. I've been told the starter can't be rebuilt; parts not available. I'll check into that.

3. Good advice, will wait. Hoping to install a 2" or 2.5" suspension lift in the near future. Am being told I simply need to adjust torsion bars in front and move rear leaf springs over axle in rear to acheive this. Sounds simple?

4. Tune up in near future. Degreased engine today. Afterward, truck wouldn't start. Waiting on new battery cables, then will perform several of Cruiser's tips. Hopefully will starts afterwards.

5. Once I get it cleaned and running, will take to local tire shop for complete brake inspection.

6. Thanks for the advice. Will look at Trucklite headlamps as soon as I finish this post. One of Cruiser's tips was to upgrade headlight connectors, so this makes sense to dovetail.

7. Tires are great.

3. Torsion bars in front? Nope. Some ZJ springs and/or coil spacers will do it. A Spring Over Conversion in the back will get you around 5-6" of lift, so if you only want 2.5ish, maybe an add a leaf?

 

Sent from my SM-N900W8 using Tapatalk

[desbennett004]

 

 

Just bought a 1988 Jeep Comanche Chief. This is very similar to the first Comanche I bought when I turned 16. If my wife found out I bought this Comanche, she would think I'm in a mid-life crisis. Can't tell her until I find a new place to sleep.

The Comanche seems to be in fairly good shape for its age. Here are my questions:

1. As I begin to make minor repairs, should I seek original parts (when available), high performance parts, or just standard parts available at a local parts store?

2. What can I do to the 4.0 engine within reason to maximize performance?

3. What does the VIN tell me/you about my Comanche: 1JTMR63S8JT077852?

My goal is to keep this Comanche as original as possible, but to install simple, easily reversible upgrades like:

K & N air filter?

2" suspension lift

upgraded stereo system

brush guard

tint windows

3/8 or 1/2 inch wheel spacers

solid, one piece lug nuts

headers?

LED foglights?

Remote entry/start?

Rollbar?

Rhino line the undercarriage?

More specifically, right now, the Comanche needs (please recommend original, performance, or standard):

1. battery cables

2. starter

3. shocks

4. complete tune up

5. brakes

6. lights (LED or original?)

Thank you in advance for you advice.

Sincerely,

Justin, aka Comanche Lover for Life

(615) 596-1696

 

1. Battery Cable upgrade. Cost should be around $100 if you buy a good kit. These old trucks have electrical problems, so start with new upgraded cables. Then go do Cruiser's upgrades/checks.

2. Starter: If the one you have is working - keep it. If it needs replaced - get a good, locally rebuilt one. I just did this today $65

3. Shocks: I would put this off till just a bit later. More important things to do first.6

 

4. Complete tune up: This is quick and easy. New plugs, new wires, etc. The second thing to do - after you check all you brakes.

5. Brakes: The very first thing you should take care of. Check them for wear and good operating condition. Fix as required.

6. Lights. LED lights are nice. TruckLite headlamps are GREAT! Spend the money on them. TRUST Me on this. Just Do It. Other lights can be converted as you go along. Most are inexpensive.

7. Tires. You did not mention this, but you have to have good tires. Don't need fancy wheels. But your need good Brakes and Tires.

Thank you very much.

 

1. Battery cables ordered.

2. I've been told the starter can't be rebuilt; parts not available. I'll check into that.

3. Good advice, will wait. Hoping to install a 2" or 2.5" suspension lift in the near future. Am being told I simply need to adjust torsion bars in front and move rear leaf springs over axle in rear to acheive this. Sounds simple?

4. Tune up in near future. Degreased engine today. Afterward, truck wouldn't start. Waiting on new battery cables, then will perform several of Cruiser's tips. Hopefully will starts afterwards.

5. Once I get it cleaned and running, will take to local tire shop for complete brake inspection.

6. Thanks for the advice. Will look at Trucklite headlamps as soon as I finish this post. One of Cruiser's tips was to upgrade headlight connectors, so this makes sense to dovetail.

7. Tires are great.

3. Torsion bars in front? Nope. Some ZJ springs and/or coil spacers will do it. A Spring Over Conversion in the back will get you around 5-6" of lift, so if you only want 2.5ish, maybe an add a leaf?

 

Sent from my SM-N900W8 using Tapatalk

[tugalo]

find another starter rebuild shop.........nothing fancy about them.

[JustinStelter]

 

 

 

Just bought a 1988 Jeep Comanche Chief. This is very similar to the first Comanche I bought when I turned 16. If my wife found out I bought this Comanche, she would think I'm in a mid-life crisis. Can't tell her until I find a new place to sleep.

The Comanche seems to be in fairly good shape for its age. Here are my questions:

 

1. As I begin to make minor repairs, should I seek original parts (when available), high performance parts, or just standard parts available at a local parts store?

2. What can I do to the 4.0 engine within reason to maximize performance?

3. What does the VIN tell me/you about my Comanche: 1JTMR63S8JT077852?

 

My goal is to keep this Comanche as original as possible, but to install simple, easily reversible upgrades like:

 

K & N air filter?

2" suspension lift

upgraded stereo system

brush guard

tint windows

3/8 or 1/2 inch wheel spacers

solid, one piece lug nuts

headers?

LED foglights?

Remote entry/start?

Rollbar?

Rhino line the undercarriage?

 

More specifically, right now, the Comanche needs (please recommend original, performance, or standard):

 

1. battery cables

2. starter

3. shocks

4. complete tune up

5. brakes

6. lights (LED or original?)

 

Thank you in advance for you advice.

 

Sincerely,

 

Justin, aka Comanche Lover for Life

(615) 596-1696

1. Battery Cable upgrade. Cost should be around $100 if you buy a good kit. These old trucks have electrical problems, so start with new upgraded cables. Then go do Cruiser's upgrades/checks.

2. Starter: If the one you have is working - keep it. If it needs replaced - get a good, locally rebuilt one. I just did this today $65

3. Shocks: I would put this off till just a bit later. More important things to do first.6

 

4. Complete tune up: This is quick and easy. New plugs, new wires, etc. The second thing to do - after you check all you brakes.

5. Brakes: The very first thing you should take care of. Check them for wear and good operating condition. Fix as required.

6. Lights. LED lights are nice. TruckLite headlamps are GREAT! Spend the money on them. TRUST Me on this. Just Do It. Other lights can be converted as you go along. Most are inexpensive.

7. Tires. You did not mention this, but you have to have good tires. Don't need fancy wheels. But your need good Brakes and Tires.

Thank you very much.

 

1. Battery cables ordered.

2. I've been told the starter can't be rebuilt; parts not available. I'll check into that.

3. Good advice, will wait. Hoping to install a 2" or 2.5" suspension lift in the near future. Am being told I simply need to adjust torsion bars in front and move rear leaf springs over axle in rear to acheive this. Sounds simple?

4. Tune up in near future. Degreased engine today. Afterward, truck wouldn't start. Waiting on new battery cables, then will perform several of Cruiser's tips. Hopefully will starts afterwards.

5. Once I get it cleaned and running, will take to local tire shop for complete brake inspection.

6. Thanks for the advice. Will look at Trucklite headlamps as soon as I finish this post. One of Cruiser's tips was to upgrade headlight connectors, so this makes sense to dovetail.

7. Tires are great.

3. Torsion bars in front? Nope. Some ZJ springs and/or coil spacers will do it. A Spring Over Conversion in the back will get you around 5-6" of lift, so if you only want 2.5ish, maybe an add a leaf?

 

Sent from my SM-N900W8 using Tapatalk

 

Updates:

1. Braided Battery cables from Taylor installed. 

2. Starter cleaned and rebuilt.

3. Suspension lift on temporary hold. Looks like best way to add 2-2.5" is to simply add a leaf spring in the back and change coil springs or put a spacer in them on the front. Does this sound correct? Keep in mind, I'm looking for a very comfortable ride. Don't plan on off-roading much. Lifting just for looks, stance, and visibility.

4. Tune up and Cruiser's tips will happen in January.

5. Rotors ordered. Brake inspection, new brakes and more than likely hoses next week.

6. Ready to order the LED front headlights from Trucklite per a suggestion, but want to make certain they will fit and that I have the right parts (Cruiser's recommended headlight connector) before I actually spend that kind of money. Does anyone know what I need to order from Trucklite and where to get the upgraded harness (1988 Jeep Comanche Chief 4x4 4.0L)?

7. The tires are so new, I still need to clean the blue wax/paint off the white lettering on the sidewalls.

[desbennett004]

2" Coil spacer in the front and adjustable shackle in the back is the easiest lift you can do.

 

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