The Jeep pickup returns to Moab with the Jeep Wrangler JK-8 Independence

Mopar has designed this kit for “do it yourselfers” who want to convert their Jeep Wrangler Unlimited into a Jeep pickup. The Wrangler JK-8 Independence kit includes a bed floor, inner and outer body panels, a half hard top that is designed to work with the “Freedom Top” panels and a new bulkhead. The bed is 50” in length and with a 44” space between the rear wheel wells, there is a decent amount of bedspace in this unique Jeep pickup.

Unfortunately, the announcement about the Jeep Wrangler JK-8 Independence doesn’t go into detail as to just how much work is involved but based on the look of this truck, there is a fair amount of body work to install the bed and outer body panels. To help make the installation a bit easier, Mopar plans to offer two kits – one that bolts together for the aforementioned “do it yourselfer” and another that likely requires a great deal more technical know-how, best left to the likes of an accredited body shop or dealership.

In addition to the JK-8 Independence pickup package for the new Wrangler Unlimited, the drivetrain of this first JK-8 Independence has been upgraded with a Mopar/Dynatrac ProRock 44 front axle and a Dana 44 rear axle – both equipped with 4.88 gears for optimum off-roading. A long arm suspension kit helps clear plenty of room for the 37” General Grabber mud tires (although the press release says that it comes with BFGs) wrapped around some sporty flat black rims.

Finally a chrome tipped dual exhaust system and a set of off-road bumpers round out the JK-8 Independence pickup package and everything in this kit is available from Mopar although the price of the JK-8 package has not yet been announced.

Check out the links below for more Chrysler news and stay tuned to TorqueNews.com as we bring you more of the vehicles of the 2011 Easter Jeep Safari.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Off-Road Edition comes to Moab
The Jeep Wrangler Blue Crush attacks Moab
The Jeep Cherokee Overland makes it’s US debut in Moab
The Jeep Compass Canyon is headed to Moab
Introducing the Jeep Wrangler Pork Chop
Mopar builds the Hemi-powered Jeep Wrangler Renegade for Moab
The Easter Jeep Safari special show vehicles are announced