Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Finding and Restoring the Perfect Pickup Bed

Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Finding and Restoring the Perfect Pickup Bed jeeps.truckstrend.com

The Jeep Comanche, affectionately known as the MJ, holds a unique and revered place in automotive history. Produced from 1986 to 1992, this pickup truck combined the rugged capability of the iconic Cherokee (XJ) with the utility of a traditional bed. Its unibody construction, excellent off-road prowess, and distinctive styling have cemented its status as a beloved classic, making it highly sought after by collectors, restorers, and off-road enthusiasts alike. However, like many vintage vehicles, the Comanche is susceptible to the ravages of time, with its most vulnerable component often being the bed itself. Rust, accidents, or heavy use can leave an otherwise solid MJ in need of a replacement bed. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to navigating the challenging yet rewarding quest for a "Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale," exploring everything from where to find one to what to consider before making your purchase.

Why a Comanche Bed? The Allure of a Classic Pickup

Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Finding and Restoring the Perfect Pickup Bed

The enduring appeal of the Jeep Comanche lies in its unique blend of attributes. It offered Jeep’s legendary 4×4 capability in a practical pickup format, a combination not seen since. For many owners, the Comanche isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a project, a passion, or a piece of history. Finding a replacement bed is often crucial for:

• Restoration Projects: Bringing a rusted or damaged Comanche back to its original glory.
• Custom Builds: Creating a unique overland rig, rock crawler, or show truck where a solid foundation is essential.
• Accident Repair: Replacing a bed damaged in a collision.
• Converting Bed Lengths: Swapping a short bed for a long bed (or vice versa) to suit specific needs.

Given the Comanche’s age and the common issue of bed rust, particularly in areas exposed to road salt or moisture, the demand for good quality replacement beds remains high. The scarcity of these parts, combined with the dedication of the Comanche community, makes the search both a challenge and an adventure.

Types of Jeep Comanche Beds Available

When searching for a Comanche bed, you’ll primarily encounter variations based on length and condition. Understanding these categories is crucial for setting realistic expectations and budgeting.

By Length:

• Short Bed (6-foot): This is the more common of the two options, offering a balance between utility and maneuverability. Many MJs were equipped with the 6-foot bed.
• Long Bed (7-foot): Rarer and highly desirable for those needing extra cargo capacity, the 7-foot bed offers maximum utility. Finding one in good condition can be significantly more challenging.

By Condition:

• Used (Good to Fair Condition): This is the most common category. These beds will have varying degrees of wear, minor dents, scratches, and potentially some surface rust. A "good" condition bed might only require minor bodywork and paint, while "fair" might need more extensive rust repair.
• Used (Rust-Ridden/Parts Bed): Often sold for very low prices, these beds are heavily rusted, potentially with holes, and are usually suitable only for patching sections onto another bed or for someone undertaking a full frame-off restoration with significant metalworking skills.
• New Old Stock (NOS): Extremely rare, virtually unheard of. These would be original, unused beds from Jeep’s inventory or a dealership’s old stock. If you ever find one, expect a premium price.
• Restored/Refurbished: Occasionally, you might find a bed that has already undergone professional restoration, including rust repair, bodywork, and priming/painting. These command a higher price but save significant time and effort.

Where to Find a Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale

The search for a Comanche bed often requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to cast a wide net. Here are the most effective avenues:

1. Online Marketplaces:

   • eBay: Good for nationwide searches, but shipping large items like a bed can be prohibitively expensive.
   • Craigslist: Excellent for local searches. Focus on areas known for drier climates (e.g., Southwest US) where rust is less prevalent. Use a wide radius.
   • Facebook Marketplace/Groups: Highly effective due to the active nature of Jeep communities. Join dedicated "Jeep Comanche Owners," "Jeep MJ," or "Jeep XJ/MJ Parts For Sale" groups. Post "want to buy" (WTB) ads.

2. Specialized Forums & Enthusiast Websites:

   • NAXJA (North American XJ Association): While primarily XJ-focused, their classifieds and forums often have MJ parts.
   • ComancheClub.com: The ultimate resource for Comanche enthusiasts. Their classifieds section is a prime spot.
   • Other Jeep Forums: Many general Jeep forums have classified sections.

3. Salvage Yards/Junkyards:

   • This is often a "needle in a haystack" scenario but can yield surprisingly good results. Call ahead to inquire about Comanche inventory. Focus on yards in states with dry climates. Self-service yards might allow you to inspect the bed more thoroughly.

4. Parts Dealers (Specialty/NOS):

   • While true NOS beds are almost non-existent, some specialty vintage Jeep parts dealers might occasionally come across a good used one or have connections. This is less common for a full bed, but worth a shot.

5. Word-of-Mouth/Local Classifieds:

   • Spread the word among local Jeep clubs, mechanics, and off-road shops. Sometimes, the best finds come from unexpected sources.

Key Considerations Before Buying

A Comanche bed is a significant investment in time, effort, and money. Before pulling the trigger, consider these crucial factors:

• Condition is Paramount: This cannot be overstated.
  • Rust: Inspect thoroughly, especially around the wheel wells, bed floor, tailgate opening, and mounting points. Surface rust is manageable; structural rust (holes, weak spots) requires extensive repair. Ask for detailed photos or a video inspection.
  • Dents & Dings: Minor ones are acceptable and easily repaired. Major structural damage can be a dealbreaker.
  • Previous Repairs: Look for signs of shoddy patch jobs or excessive body filler.
• Bed Length: Double-check whether it’s a 6-foot or 7-foot bed to ensure it matches your needs.
• Location & Shipping Costs: This is often the biggest hurdle. Shipping a large item like a truck bed across states can cost hundreds, if not over a thousand dollars. Factor this into your total budget. Local pickup is almost always preferred.
• Included Components: Does the sale include the tailgate, taillights, fuel filler neck, or the mounting bolts? Often, beds are sold bare. Sourcing these components separately adds to the cost and complexity.
• Price Negotiation: Prices vary wildly based on condition, location, and seller motivation. Be prepared to negotiate, especially for used beds.
• Seller Reputation: If buying online, check seller reviews and ask for references if possible.

The Buying Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Define Your Needs: What condition are you looking for? Short or long bed? What’s your maximum budget (including potential shipping/repair)?
2. Start Your Search: Utilize all the avenues listed above. Set up alerts on online marketplaces for "Jeep Comanche bed" or "MJ bed."
3. Initial Contact & Inquiry: When you find a potential bed, contact the seller with specific questions:
   • "Can you provide more detailed photos/videos, especially of common rust areas (wheel wells, floor, tailgate opening)?"
   • "What is the history of the bed (from a running vehicle, salvaged, etc.)?"
   • "Are there any major dents, previous repairs, or structural damage?"
   • "Does it include the tailgate, taillights, or any other components?"
   • "What is your asking price, and are you firm?"
   • "What is your location for pickup, or are you willing to assist with freight shipping?"
4. In-Person Inspection (Highly Recommended): If at all possible, inspect the bed in person. Bring a flashlight and a magnet (to check for excessive body filler).
5. Arrange Logistics: If buying remotely, discuss shipping options. Freight shipping typically requires the seller to palletize the bed and load it onto a truck. Get multiple shipping quotes.
6. Secure the Transaction: Use secure payment methods. If picking up, pay upon inspection. If shipping, ensure payment is received before the bed leaves the seller’s possession. A bill of sale is always a good idea.

Restoration and Installation Tips

Once you’ve acquired your Comanche bed, the real work begins.

• Rust Treatment: For any surface rust, use wire brushes, sandblasting (if accessible), and rust converter products. For holes, professional welding and patching are often necessary.
• Bodywork: Address any dents or imperfections.
• Painting/Coating: Apply a high-quality primer, then paint to match your truck’s color, or consider a durable bed liner for the interior.
• Mounting: Ensure all mounting points on the bed align with your Comanche’s frame. New mounting hardware is recommended.
• Wiring: Connect the taillight and reverse light wiring harnesses.
• Associated Parts: Install the tailgate, taillights, bumper, and fuel filler neck. Ensure all seals and gaskets are in good condition to prevent water intrusion.

Challenges and Solutions

• Scarcity: Good beds are rare. Solution: Be patient, expand your search radius, and utilize multiple platforms.
• Rust: It’s almost inevitable. Solution: Budget for rust repair or specifically seek out beds from dry climates (e.g., California, Arizona, New Mexico).
• Shipping Costs: Can exceed the cost of the bed itself. Solution: Prioritize local pickup, consider a road trip to pick up a good bed, or split freight costs with another buyer if possible.
• Mismatched Condition: The perfect bed might not exist. Solution: Be realistic. A bed with minor issues that you can fix yourself is often a better deal than waiting indefinitely for a flawless one.

Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale: Representative Price Table

Please note: Prices for Jeep Comanche beds vary wildly based on condition, location, seller urgency, and current market demand. This table provides representative ranges to give you an idea of what to expect.

Condition Category	Bed Length	Typical Price Range (USD)	What’s Usually Included/Notes
Excellent/NOS	6-foot	$2,500 – $4,000+	Virtually non-existent. May be bare or include minor components. Pristine, minimal to no rust or dents.
Excellent/NOS	7-foot	$3,500 – $5,000+	The holy grail. If found, expect top dollar.
Good Used	6-foot	$800 – $2,000	Minor surface rust, small dents/scratches. May need minor bodywork and paint. Typically bare (no tailgate/lights).
Good Used	7-foot	$1,200 – $2,500+	More desirable, thus higher price. Similar condition issues as 6-foot. Typically bare.
Fair Used	6-foot	$400 – $800	Noticeable rust (some through-holes likely), moderate dents. Requires significant bodywork and rust repair. Bare.
Fair Used	7-foot	$600 – $1,200	Similar condition as 6-foot fair, but commanding more due to rarity. Significant restoration required. Bare.
Parts/Rusted Out	Any	$100 – $300	Heavily rusted, large holes, significant damage. Only useful for patch panels or as a template. Rarely includes anything else.
Restored/Refurbished	Any	$2,000 – $3,500+	Professionally repaired, primered, possibly painted. May or may not include tailgate/lights. Significant time/effort saved.

Important Considerations for Pricing:

• Shipping Costs: NOT included in these prices. Expect an additional $300 – $1500+ for freight shipping.
• Tailgate & Taillights: Rarely included. Factor in $200-$500+ for a good used tailgate and $100-$300 for taillights.
• Repair Costs: If buying a "Fair" or "Parts" bed, factor in hundreds to thousands for professional rust repair and bodywork.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are all Jeep Comanche beds interchangeable?
A: No. You must match the bed length (6-foot or 7-foot) to the corresponding wheelbase of your Comanche. A 6-foot bed will only fit a short-wheelbase MJ, and a 7-foot bed will only fit a long-wheelbase MJ.

Q: What are the most common rust spots on a Comanche bed?
A: The most notorious areas are behind the rear wheels (where the inner and outer wheel wells meet), the bed floor (especially near the front and drain holes), the tailgate opening, and the mounting points to the frame.

Q: Can I use a Jeep Cherokee (XJ) rear bumper on a Comanche?
A: The XJ rear bumper can be adapted to fit a Comanche, but it’s not a direct bolt-on. Minor modifications to the mounting brackets are usually required. The Comanche had its own unique rear bumper.

Q: How much does a Comanche bed typically weigh?
A: A bare Comanche bed (without tailgate, bumper, etc.) weighs approximately 250-350 pounds, depending on the length. This is important for calculating shipping costs.

Q: Do Comanche beds usually come with the tailgate and taillights?
A: Rarely. Most "bed for sale" listings are for the bed structure itself. Tailgates, taillights, and other small components are almost always sold separately or are assumed to be missing.

Q: Is it worth restoring a rusty Comanche bed?
A: If the rust is not structural (i.e., it hasn’t compromised the main frame attachment points or created massive holes in critical areas), and you have the skills or budget for professional metalwork, it can be worth it, especially if you have a rare long bed or want to preserve originality. For severe rust, buying a better condition bed might be more cost-effective.

Q: How can I protect my new (or restored) Comanche bed from future rust?
A: Thoroughly clean and prep the bed, apply a high-quality primer, and then a durable paint or bedliner. Consider applying an undercoating or cavity wax to the inside of the bed walls and crossmembers. Regular cleaning and avoiding prolonged exposure to moisture and road salt are also key.

Conclusion

The quest for a "Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale" is a testament to the enduring legacy and dedicated community surrounding this unique pickup truck. While challenging due to scarcity and the common issue of rust, finding a suitable replacement bed is an immensely rewarding endeavor. It breathes new life into a cherished classic, ensuring that these rugged and versatile vehicles continue to roam the roads and trails for years to come. By understanding the types of beds available, knowing where to search, diligently evaluating condition, and preparing for the logistics, you can successfully navigate this journey and help preserve a piece of Jeep history. Patience, thoroughness, and a passion for the MJ are your greatest assets in this pursuit.