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Source: Just 4x4's Magazine

Willys 463 Wagon Kaiser Wagoneers Super Wagoneer AMC Wagoneers Wagoneers 1984 -1992 History of the Cherokee

These documents are not completed, I am looking for specs and pics to be able to have them totally comprehensive.
If you can help email any info to Rod.

Preface
Following the remarkable success of the Jeep during World War II, it was essential that Jeep capitalise on this popularity and to convert this status into peacetime civilian sales. Willys-Overland decided to build a passenger car that would closely resemble the styling of the famous Jeep.

Willys 463 Jeep Station Wagon
The new vehicle was known as the Model 463 Jeep Station Wagon and debuted in July 1946 with a total of 6534 built in that year. The 463 used a conventional ladder-type frame, and featured independent front suspension utilising control arms and a single traverse leaf spring. A three-speed Warner Model TY-96 transmission was used with synchromesh on the top two gears, and a Borg Warner overdrive unit became standard after the earliest models when it was a $100 option.

The Jeep Station Wagon was the first all steel wagon, with other manufacturers generally using wooden bodies. It was offered initially in Luzon Red only although it was painted to resemble mahogany and birch paneling. The wagon was available as a two-door wagon with front and rear seating or as a panel van with rear seats deleted and rear windows blanked out.

Initially they were only available in 2WD, but in 1949 Jeep offered a 4WD model, which remained optional until the end of production.
It was priced at $2008US and was the most expensive Willys model.

A '4-Wheel Drive' identification replaced the 'Jeep station wagon' along the sides of the bonnet, and apart from this the 4WD was identical in appearance to the 2WD 463 model.  Headlights were set inwards from the fenders next to a simple grille of vertical bars. The body had a ribbed, brown and cream colour scheme and was available only in dark burgundy. The wagon had a functional appearance and had no domestic competition whatsoever. The windscreen consisted of two piece flat glass, and the upper section of the rear door also housed two flat glass windows. Access to the rear was by a simple T-handle with the door hinged top and bottom. The top section was supported by two struts and the tailgate lowered to form a flat surface with the interior floor. Both the tail light and number plate holder swivelled 90 degrees so that they were visible when the tailgate was dropped.

The front and rear seats were of 60/40 split design with simulated leather upholstery, mounted on a tubular steel frame. The dash was simple and functional with a painted metal surface surrounding a centrally positioned square shaped instrument cluster. A glovebox was located to the right, with ignition key receptacle, choke and starter controls below them. A standard 'deluxe' steering wheel with a horn button rim was fitted as were front and rear dome lights. A handy storage compartment was located under the front seat complete with a door. Three ashtrays were standard (one dash mounted, and two on rear side panels), dual sun visors, front and rear armrests and key locks on both front doors were standard features. The spare wheel was mounted inside the rear compartment.

The 463 was powered by a 4 cylinder L-head cast Iron block and cylinder head engine producing 60 horsepower at 4000 rpm. It used a Spicer fully floating front axle and a semi-floating Spicer rear axle and a Spicer Model 18 transfer case with a 2.42:1 low and 1.0:1 high range. The shift lever was floor mounted. Front and rear suspension was by semi elliptical leaf springs. The 4WD model came with 6.50 x 15 tyres and was slightly larger in dimensions than the 2WD version.

Willys produced the station wagon in 2WD and 4WD configurations until 1965. They were considered to be a major milestone in postwar American automotive history.

The introduction of the new Wagoneer line in 1962 was the beginning of the end f or the classic Willys wagon which was showing its age, although they remained in production through 1965. The Wagoneer replaced the Willys Wagon but a Rural Willys Station Wagon continued to be built in Brazil until 1976.

JEEP WAGONEER by Kaiser

The Jeep Wagoneer was introduced on November 14, 1962 as a replacement for the Willys station wagon. It was completely new in virtually every aspect and squarely aimed at the uniform motoring public. Jeep had earlier embarked on an extensive research and engineering program with the aim of not only modernising their vehicles but to compete with conventional car manufacturers. Over three years and at a cost of $20 million the Wagoneer and its derivatives were developed.

1963 Wagoneer
63 Wagoneer Ad

Initially available as a two or four door wagon, in 2WD or 4WD the Wagoneer created much interest with its new OHC 6 cylinder engine, modern styling and rugged good looks. The Company described the Wagoneer as the 'first station wagon to provide complete passenger car styling, comfort and convenience in combination with the advantages of four wheel drive.

The Wagoneer's styling retained continuity with past Willys models with a simple, functional front end with familiar vertical grille. A fresh look was achieved by extending the outer edge of the fenders and hood forward enough to encircle the grille and front lights. Mounted between single headlights were interior air intakes, and rectangular parking/directional lights were located directly below the headlights. A Jeep logo was mounted in the lower right of the grille. The Wagoneer's angular wheelwell cutouts were reminiscent of Jeep CJ styling.

Custom models were identified by stainless steel trim around the windscreen, rear back light and side windows. The Wagoneer featured large windows all round, termed 'pano-scopic' in its advertising. The doors opened a practical 82 degrees - much wider than any comparable wagon of the day - and the rear was simply finished with square tail lights and retractable rear window. The Wagoneer was the most car like of any vehicle produced by Jeep, combining passenger car comforts with off-road capabilities.

The 1962 Wagoneer was available in six different models -  63wag_2dr.gif (10046 bytes)two and four door 2WD, and 4WD wagons, and 2WD and 4WD panel deliveries with its rear quarter panel windows replaced by sheet steel and rear vertical doors, rather than a tailgate. The standard engine was a Tornado 230 OHC six. Standard transmission was a column-mounted three speed manual, or optional GM three speed Turbo Hydra - Matic, Wagoneer’s fitted with a manual transmission were fitted with a single-barrel Holley Model 1920 carburettor, while the automatic transmission came with a Holley Model 2415 2-barrel unit.

The picture shows a 2 door Wagoneer owned by Rolly Schumaker of Glendale, Arizona .  It has a stock 230c.i. Tornado motor with a 2 barrel carb, three speed std. transmission (Warner T-90), Spicer 20 Transfer case, 4:11 gears with Dana 27 in the front and Dana 44 in the back. This vehicle is all stock except for white spoke wheel.

As well as the new engine the Wagoneer came with new front suspension systems. There were two different 4WD versions available with independent suspension or solid front axles for heavy duty use. 4WD versions utilised the heavier duty solid front axle with longitudinal leaf springs and hydraulic, double action shock absorbers.

The Wagoneer was offered in ten colours white, sprucetip green, parkway green, Nordic blue, sierra blue, parade blue, line grey, tree bark brown, president red and amber metallic.

Wagoneer 1964 - 1968
No changes were made in the mechanical specifications or appearance of the Wagoneer, pic of 64 Wag. Air conditioning was added to the list of options and a lower compression version of the OHC 6 cylinder engine was available.

In 1965, pic of 65 Wag the Wagoneer became the first Jeep vehicle to be offered with a V8 engine when the American Motors' 327 cub. in V8 became available as an option. The OHC six was still the standard engine, with the 'Vigilante' V8 optional for $190.83. With two barrel carburettor the V8 developed 250 horsepower at 4700 rpm and 340 lb/ft at 2600 rpm. Standard transmission for the V8 was a column mounted three speed manual, or optional GM three speed Turbo Hydra - Matic. A four speed manual was added in 1965 and continued optional until 1972.

The standard OHC 6 cylinder 230 engine was replaced with the AMC 232 Hi Torque 6 in 1965. A new safety package was standard on all Wagoneer models for 1965 and consisted of front and rear set belts, padded sun visors, high impact windscreen, chrome outside mirror, dual brake system, 4 way warning flashers, backup lights, and dual speed wipers.

The Super Wagoneer was introduced in 1966 and was the first American luxury oriented four wheel drive vehicle. This was an important step in the evolution of the Wagoneer into a prestige vehicle. Externally the Wagoneer featured two side trim panels that widened from front to rear. The top panel contained an ‘antiqued gold’ insert while the lower and narrow panel was painted black to match the colour of the standard padded roof. A similar insert was used across the rear tailgate. metal styled wheel covers with hubs were also standard equipment on the Super Wagoneer. The rear fender panel also gained a trim panel with scripted ‘Super’ identification before the Wagoneer ID.

 SuperKen's Super Wag SuperKen's Super Wag
Ken Wetherall's highly modified 1966 'Super'

The Super Wagoneer boasted many luxury interior features including ceiling courtesy lights, seven position tilt steering wheel, front bucket seats, vinyl trimmed door panels, padded sun visors and dash, day/night prismatic rear view mirror, and automatically retracting seat belts.

Air conditioning, turbo Hydra - Matic, power steering and brakes, power tailgate window, tinted safety glass in all windows, white sidewall 8.45 x 1S tyres, chrome roof rack, external rear view mirror and push button radio were standard appointments.

The Super Wagoneer was powered by 4 barrel Vigilante 327 V8. As per other1966 Wagoneers - pic the Super Wagoneer gained a new grille with vertical bars extending nearly the full width of the front end. No new styling changes were made to the Wagoneer range in 1967.

For some more info on the Super Wagoneer - click to look at Richard Truesdell's Super Wagoneer

From 1968 the Wagoneer was only available with four wheel drive and a new model the Custom V8 four door Wagoneer was launched.

1968 Wagoneer
1968 Wag

1969 Wagoneer

All two door models were dropped from 1969, as were the Super Wagoneer and Panel Delivery. The 145 horsepower Hi-Torque 6 cylinder engine remained the Wagoneer’s standard engine, but the AMC 327 cub. in. V8 was replaced by a 350 cub. in. ‘Dauntless’ V8 supplied by Buick.

The base Wagoneer interior was equipped with foam padded seats with three simulated leather grain vinyl coverings. Colour keyed appointments included the headliner, padded instrument panel, padded sun visors, front and rear seat belts and textured floor mats.

The Custom Wagoneer - pic also featured high pile carpet, chrome instrument panel control knobs, colour keyed steering wheel with deluxe horn ring, courtesy lights, vinyl floor covering in cargo area, stainless steel exterior mouldings and chrome wheel covers. Both standard and custom Wagoneer interiors were offered in raw-hide, charcoal or martin blue.

The range was available in a choice of 9 colours: white, president red, vintage gold, avocado green, spring green, empire blue, bronze, prairie gold, and sprucetip green. AU painted surfaces were first treated with a zinc-phosphate coating and primer.

1970 Wagoneer

Ownership of Jeep was acquired by American Motors in January 1970 - pic with 1970 models the last produced by Kaiser Jeep. They were readily identified by new front grille design, revised rear deck trim, altered trim and new interior and exterior colour selection. The former grille design was now used exclusively on the Jeep Gladiator range of trucks with the Wagoneer inheriting a new egg-crate grille and front fender mounted side lights. A contemporary Jeep lettering logo replaced the former circle Jeep logo on the front grille. Other Jeep lettering on the side and rear was also repositioned and updated. At the rear a chequered patterned insert bracketing the license plate was used on Custom models.

In June 1970 an optional power operated sun roof was offered at $490.50. Included in this price was a vinyl covered roof and side body trim offered in a choice of four colours - white, black brown or saddle.

Standard equipment included oil filter, oil bath air cleaner, directional signals, front seat belts with retractor boots, hub-caps, chrome grille, padded sun visors, padded instrument panel, rear seat belts, outside left rear view mirror, 2 speed electric windscreen wipers and washers, back up lights,4 way flasher and heater and defros-ter. There were numerous options, includ-ing V8 engine, 8.55 x 15 Power cushion tyres, white wall tyres and suburban tyres, cigarette lighter, locking rear differential, radio and antenna, heavy duty rear springs, power brakes, power steering, heavy duty cooling system, air conditioning. 4 speed manual transmission, heavy duty 70 amp battery, turbo Hydra-Matic, power tailgate window, pleated vinyl trim or deluxe trim. Other options included window vent shades, locking fuel filler cap, parking brake warning light, courtesy lights, spare tyre lock, deluxe horn ring, push button radio and outside rear view mirror.

AMC WAGONEERS

1971 Wagoneer

American Motors introduced a standard 258 cubic inch 6 cylinder engine in January 1971. A derivative of the 232 cubic inch 6 cylinder. It produced a peak horsepower of 150. V8 engines were now offered in either 304 or 360 cubic inch displacements.

The Custom Wagoneer package consisted of these interior items: floor carpeting, cargo area floor covering, deluxe headlining, deluxe door panel trims, full wheel covers, deluxe trim on seat, back, front and rear door armrests. Deluxe control knobs, rear seat ashtray, deluxe rear view mirror, horn ring and mouldings. External features included stainless steel door frame mouldings, windscreen mouldings and rear body mouldings. There was also a Woodgrain Accessory package (optional) with woodgrain exterior trim and mouldings, luggage rack, outside passenger side rear view mirror, inside day/night mirror and parking brake waning light.

A 'Limited Edition' model 1414X Wagoneer Special was offered in 1971. As standard equipment it came with 350 cubic inch 230 horsepowerV8, automatic transmission column mount, console with armrest and electric clock,- front bucket seats, AM radio with antenna power brakes, power steering power tailgate win-dow, tinted glass, courtesy lights, golden lime metallic paint Custom Wagoneer package, Woodgrain Accessory package, air deflector, 8.55 x 15 4 ply white wall tyres, plus all other standard Wagoneer equipment The only options for this specially built model were- the rear Trac-Lok differential and air conditioning.

1972 Wagoneer

The Custom special model was dropped for 1972 although all its features were still available as options. The standard Wagoneer was priced at $4,398, a drop of $49 from the 1971 price. The standard interior now had an embossed vinyl se trim, while fabric or pleated vinyl trim were options.

1973 Wagoneer

Following over four years of development Jeep introduced the Borg-Warner Quadra-Trac 4 wheel drive system in 1973. American Motors described the basic philosophy of Quadra-Trac as simple: regardless of the driving conditions, the front and rear differentials automatically adjusted the power and speed of the wheels they controlled, thus, each wheel received the correct proportion of driving power required.' The Quadra-Trac automatic full-time four-wheel-drive system was a major advance in 4WD technology providing superior traction on all road surfaces and conditions.

A unique Limited slip third differential (which received power from the rear of the transmission via a duplex chain) was mounted mid-way on the drivetrain with cone clutch set-up with a torque biasing ability which enabled it to transmit power to the front and rear differentials in the pro portion required by the road conditions. This resulted in maximum handling response under all driving conditions.

Quadra-Trac was a quieter system and eliminated the need f or free wheeling hubs. Powering the 1973 Quadra-Trac Wagoneer was the 360 cu. in. V8 with standard 2 barrel carburettor, or optional 4 barrel carburettor version with additional horsepower (standard produced 173 horsepower at 4000 rpm/4 barrel produced 195 hp at 4400 rpm).

Low range was available for Quadra-Trac, providing a 2.57:1 ratio in addition to the standard 1.0:1 ratio. It mounted directly to the transfer case at the end of the transmission main shaft. Low range was selected by a control knob located on the dash board to the right of the steering column. If required, the third differential could deactivated by a control knob located in the glovebox. When deactivated a warning light on the dash indicated this condition.

The 1973 Wagoneer range included number of other improved features. The clutch linkage for manual transmissions was redesigned for easier operation, less maintenance and longer service life. The 3-speed all synchromeshed manual transmission now utilised a floor shift, as did the optional 4 speed- manual, although the Turbo Hydra - Matic used a column shift. The dash was redesigned and incorporated a three section cluster housing the speedometer/ odometer in the centre with the fuel and temperature gauges along with warning lights for paring brake and brake failure to their left. The third unit housed new oil and ammeter gauges to the right. The dash featured a wider brow and an ashtray mounted on ball bearings. All models featured a new energy absorbing steering column, a re-styled steering wheel, new armrests, optional clock, locking steering column switch and a hazard warning light control.

The Wagoneer was offered in both standard or custom models with the latter featuring a woodgrain trim for the instrument cluster and a colour-keyed instrument panel, steering column and steering wheel. A 'Rio Grande' embossed vinyl upholstery was standard on the Wagoneer. Custom models had a fabric finish Nine colours were available for the 1973 range.

1974 Wagoneer

Jeep promoted the Wagoneer as a fully equipped prestige 4WD vehicle in 1974 and continued to add appointments to the Wagoneer comparable to those found on any 'standard' 2WD wagon. The Wagoneer gained a new grille featuring a grid work with wider subdivisions and housing the parking/directional indicators in rectangular pods. Front fender side markers were reshaped and the rear licence plate light was new. The roof rack featured adjustable cross bars and side rails, and new options were alloy wheels and a tilt steering wheel. Standard and custom trim levels were available in 1974, however, all Wagoneers were powered by the 360 cub. in. 2 barrel carburettor V8 and all utilised the Turbo Hydra - Matic transmission and Quadra-Trac. An optional AMC 401 cub. in V8 with single 4 barrel carburettor also became available.

Power steering and brakes were standard although tilt steering column and alloy wheels remained optional. The use of a Dana model 44 open-end front axle reduced the Wagoneer's turning circle from 44.5 feet to 38. Multi-leaf springs were replaced with longer low friction tapered units which allowed the wheelbase of the Wagoneer to be reduced by 1 inch. Six stud wheels were introduced to replace the former 5 stud.

Also introduced in 1974 for the first time was Jeep's new two-door Cherokee 4WD wagon. It's dimensions were identical to the 1975 Wagoneer, although its appear-ance was altered.

1975 Wagoneer

The 1975 Wagoneer featured a new electronic ignition system, engine insulation, and on the V8s new carburettors with smaller primary and larger secondary metering valves. As per the Cherokee and J-trucks the Wagoneer was equipped with new front and rear multi - leaf springs, longer shock absorbers mounted in a staggered position at the rear, heat shields for the muffler and exhaust pipes, a new power steering gear. 3-belt accessory drive system on V8 engines and a new stainless steel whip-type radio antenna. Optional 78 x 15 white sidewall radial tyres were available.

1975 Wagoneer
1975 Wagoner

The Custom Wagoneer was available with new optional woodgrain trim panel that was much wider than its predecessor.

Additional standard equipment on the custom model were new courtesy, cargo, glovebox and ash tray lights. Also available were stereo AM/FM radio with four speakers, electrically-heated rear-window defroster, cruise control, leather wrapped 15 inch steering wheel, cargo area carpeting and insulation pad 70 amp alternator and a new convenience group consisting of remote outside mirror, visor vanity mirror and electric clock.

Standard equipment on the base Wagoneer included power steering, front and rear chrome bumpers, 12 inch day/night mirror, padded instrument panel, padded sun visors, heavy-duty 60 amp battery, roll up tailgate window, dual electric horns, heavy duty air conditioner and under hood insulation. The Wagoneer was available in a choice of 10 exterior colours and four interior colours: blue, green, black or buff.

1976 Wagoneer

The Wagoneer shared with the Cherokee an all-new frame with stronger cross members and box section side rail construction which allowed the rear springs to be wider spaced than in 1975. The new frame allowed the use of a direct steering gear mounting eliminating the need for adaptor subassemblies. Available for the first time was an optional front stabiliser bar. Anew heavy-duty suspension was also optional. A floor mounted lever replaced the Quadra-Trac Low Range control formerly located on the instrument panel. While the dash layout remained the same, new graphics were used making the instruments easier to read The exterior colour range for the Wagoneer was expanded to twelve.

1977-1983 Wagoneer

Only one model Wagoneer was available in 1977. It was equivalent to the 1976 Custom model and was priced at $6,966US. There were few changes, with an alternative interior trim offered and a new interior tyre carrier. The fuel filler cap was repositioned. A new option were 7 inch chrome plated spoked steel wheels.

1978 saw many detail changes made to the Wagoneer, with colour-keyed seat belts, a new horn pad for the standard steering wheel, a 'soft-feel' pleated vinyl seat trims and chrome-plated armrest bases. A11 1978 engines reverted to a 2 barrel carburettor 360 V8 as standard although the 4 barrel carburettor and 401 cub. in. engine remained options.

A 'Limited Edition' Wagoneer was introduced midway through 1978 and was described by Jeep advertising as 'a cut above excellence ....built for the man who demands the ultimate in 4 wheel drive performance without compromising on luxury'. Beyond the already long list of standard convenience items were included air conditioning, tinted glass, power tailgate window, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, AM/FM/CB radio, front sway bar, stabiliser bar, front bumper guards, extra quiet insulation package, headlights-on warning buzzer, intermittent windscreen wipers, remote control driver's side mirror, leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, extra thick carpeting in the seating and cargo area, special interior and exterior nameplates, wide woodgrain side and rear trim, roof rack, special forged aluminium styled wheels and whitewall tyres.

The extra-quiet insulation packages was a new option for 1979 as was a smooth-ride suspension, lighted visor vanity mirror and dome/reading light of the convenience package. The '79 Wagoneers were easily distinguished by new single piece grille of vertical bars and single rectangular headlights. Another new feature were the first one-piece aluminium bumpers. The 'Limited Edition' series was again updated and included bucket seats, centre armrest and special door panels, 'Limited' nameplate on the instrument panel and protective floor mats.

1980 saw the Wagoneer offered for the first time with either a full or part-time 4-wheel drive system. Replacing the standard Borg Warner 3 speed transmission and optional 4 speed transmission was an all-synchromesh4 speed Tremec model T-176 with an all-aluminium case. Linked to this was a New Process 208 part time transfer case in place of the Dana 20 unit previously used. The new Quadra-Trac system had a viscous coupling limited slip differential in place of the cone-clutch friction system used in 1979. Low range was an integral part of the new Quadra-Trac. Auto transmission and Quadra-Trac were standard on all Wagoneers, and for the first time since 1973 a 6 cylinder engine was offered.

1980 Wagoneer            1980 Wagoneer Limited
1980 Wagoneer     1980 Wagoneer Limited

All 1980 Wagoneers were offered with several new options including pop-up sunroof and a cassette tape/AM/E;M radio combination. The Wagoneer Limited gained a new quartz electronic digital clock: and new aluminium wheels. During 1980 Wagoneer sales experienced a sharp decline with only 10,402 units sold. This improved in 1981 following the expansion of the Wagoneer range to include three levels: Custom, Brougham and Limited.

Numerous changes were implemented to improve fuel efficiency and performance this year, including part-time 4WD, new transmission, reduced wind resistant front bumper design, reduced overall vehicle height and drag free calliper brake system.

The 360 cubic inch V8 became optional for the 1981 Wagoneer, with the standard power plant the 258 cubic inch staight 6 cylinder with either 4 speed manual or 3 speed automatic transmission. This engine was redesigned for better fuel economy, improved reliability, quieter running and its weight was reduced by 90 lbs. This was achieved through using alternative componentry and aluminium. A new lock up converter for the Torque-Flite automatic transmission improved fuel economy and reduced engine wear as well as lowering engine temperature.
1981 Wagoneers also had lower numerical axle ratios and higher first gear ratios for their manual transmissions.

The Custom Wagoneer became the standard model in 1981, yet included such items as 4 speed fully synchro transmission, free-wheeling hubs, power steering and power front disc brakes, and passenger area carpeting. It was priced at $10,464.

The Brougham model had all these features plus fabric covered seats, premium door trim panels, a soft headliner and woodgrain trim for the instrument cluster and horn cover. Exterior identification included bright door and quarter window frames, lower tailgate mouldings, and a thin body scuff moulding with a narrow woodgrain insert. All 1981 Wagoneers were fitted with Goodyear Viva P225/75R x 15 radial tyres. The Brougham was priced at $11,434, which also included the Convenience Package (under hood light, lights-on buzzer and digital clock). Lights Package (interior cargo light and tailgate switch, lighted visor vanity mirror, courtesy, map/dome, glovebox and ashtray lights), a roof rack, floor mats and a power tailgate window.

The Limited Wagoneer was priced $15,164 and included all of the features of the Brougham, plus bucket seats, centre armrest, door panels, leather-wrapped steering wheel, extra thick carpeting in the seating area, retractable cargo cover and woodgrain trim on the lower instrument panel. Additional features included Quadra-Trac, automatic transmission, air conditioning, tinted glass, power windows door locks, power tailgate window, cruise control, AM/FM stereo radio, Convenience Package, Visibility Package bumper bar, floor mats, Extra Quiet Insulation and power six-way driver and passenger seats.

1982 Wagoneer LimitedFor 1982 the only changes made to the Wagoneer line up was the addition halogen headlights, electronically tuned AM/FM cassette radio and the availability of tilt steering with manual transmission. During 1982 sales of Wagoneer rose to 15,547.

A new Select-Trac 2/4-wheel drive system was standard equipment for 1983 Wagoneers. Two or four wheel drive was selected by a dash-mounted lever which connected/disconnected the front drivetrain by a vacuum-activated spline clutch built into the front axle assembly. The 258 cub. in. engine's compression ratio was increased from 8.3:1 to 9.2:1, and a fuel feedback system and knock sensor were added to improve performance and fuel efficiency. During 1982 the Wagoneer range was reduced to the Brougham and Limited models, with the Custom model discarded.

'COMPACT' OR 'LITTLE' WAGONEERS - the monocoque chassis era.......

In 1984 Jeep introduced a new down-sized series of compact Wagoneers and Cherokees which weighed nearly 1,0001bs less. They had a distinctive grille, tail light, exterior trim and moulding treatment The 'Sportswagons' were 21 inches shorter, 6 inches narrower and four in height than the 1983 versions. The Sportswagons retained the characteristic Jeep angular body lines, squared of front and rear wheel openings and the slotted grille characteristics of the older models. Despite these new contemporary models the former full-size Wagoneer was retained and dubbed the Grand Wagoneer and was provided with virtually every option as standard including metallic paint.

The new down-sized Wagoneers were offered in Base or Limited trim levels in two and four door models, with 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder engines. A V8 option was available for the Grand Wagoneer. It was offered in ten colours.

For 1985 the Grand Wagoneer was fitted with a Handling Package that provided smoother and more comfortable travel. New components included new front and rear track bars and a longer front sway bar, gas filled shockers and lower friction rear springs. A movable central armrest was fitted which allowed for the seating of three adults in the front, and front bucket seats with movable headrests. The aluminium wheels came with a gold hub cover insert. The Grand Wagoneer was priced at $20,462US in 1985. The smaller Wagoneers came with standard 4 cylinder 2.5 Litre engine, 4 speed manual transmission, and 2 speed Command-Trac transfer case. New standard equipment included front seat headrests, reclining front bucket seats, and passenger assist handles.

In 1986 the Grand Wagoneer received numerous modifications and significant styling changes. Appearance wise the Grand Wagoneer featured a revised front end with two prominent horizontal chrome bars dividing a field of narrow rectangular bars into three equal sections. Headlights were located in chrome receptacles, and a stand-up Jeep hood ornament was aimed to enhance the Jeep's 'classic exterior'. Interior changes were dramatic with a redesigned dash panel, consolidated controls for heater, demister and air conditioning into a single unit. The dash featured new gauges, and a woodgrain overlay along with a radio with four speakers. The steering column and steering wheel were redesigned to include column-mounted control functions for the lights, windscreen wipers and washer, leather seats now had Cumberland Cord fabric inserts.

The standard Grand Wagoneer full time 4WD Select-Trac driveline had a new Trac-Lok limited slip differential for 1986 which shifted the engine power to the wheel with the best traction. Options included a 360 cub. in. V8, auxiliary auto transmission cooler, heavy-duty shock absorbers, power sunroof, power sunroof with vinyl top, trailer towing A and B packages.

Wagoneer 25th Anniversary

To mark its 25th model year in 1987 the Grand Wagoneer gained the 360 cub. in. V8 as its standard engine, and became the world's first production vehicle to use new Michelin Tru Seal: P235/75R 15 radial tyres as standard equipment. These tyres had the ability to seal themselves from punctures. Externally the Grand Wagoneer had a new English Walnut woodgrain colour, and new Grand Wagoneer and V8 nameplates. Two additional clearcoat metallic colours were added to the range and two new interior colours were available. The sound system was improved with a new AM/FM MPX electronically-tuned stereo cassette with Dolby and four Jensen speakers. A new optional feature for the Grand Wagoneer in 1988 was an electric sunroof with integral air deflector and venting capability.

1989 Grand WagoneerIn 1989 Wagoneers with the 4 litre engine, auto transmission and Select-Trac were available with a four wheel anti-braking system which operated in both 2 and 4WD. The smaller Wagoneer also gained a larger 20 gallon fuel tank The Wagoneer featured an overhead console in 1990. The Grand Wagoneer was available in an additional 6 exterior colours in 1991, and was priced at $29,189US. The Grand Wagoneer had taken Jeep from being known only for its 'Spartan' vehicles to that of a maker of luxury 4WD wagons. It had enjoyed a tremendous following and been in production for just on 30 years.

All Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models were discontinued in 1992 with the Cherokee range taking over their mantle. A Jeep Grand Wagoneer was offered in 1993.