Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding and Restoring This Elusive Gem

Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding and Restoring This Elusive Gem jeeps.truckstrend.com

The Jeep Comanche, affectionately known as the MJ, stands as a unique chapter in automotive history. A rugged pickup truck built on the unibody platform of the iconic XJ Cherokee, it combined the legendary off-road prowess of a Jeep with the utility of a pickup. Produced from 1986 to 1992, the Comanche quickly earned a reputation for durability and versatility, making it a beloved classic among enthusiasts. Today, finding a complete and well-preserved Comanche is a challenge, and perhaps even more so, finding a standalone Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale. This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to understanding, locating, and restoring this critical component, ensuring your Comanche project or dream build can come to fruition.

The Enduring Appeal of the Jeep Comanche and Its Bed

Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding and Restoring This Elusive Gem

The Jeep Comanche was more than just a truck; it was a testament to Jeep’s engineering ingenuity during a pivotal time. It offered a lighter, more nimble alternative to traditional full-size pickups, while still boasting impressive payload and towing capabilities. Its unibody construction, shared with the incredibly popular Cherokee, gave it a unique ride quality and off-road articulation that few other trucks could match.

Central to the Comanche’s identity and utility is its bed. Available in both a 6-foot (short bed) and a rarer 7-foot (long bed) configuration, the bed defines the vehicle’s pickup truck nature. For owners, restorers, and customizers, the bed is often the most susceptible part to damage, rust, or modification, making a standalone Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale an incredibly sought-after item. Whether you’re replacing a rusted-out original, repairing collision damage, or embarking on a custom build like a crew cab conversion or a different powertrain swap, a good condition Comanche bed is a cornerstone of the project.

Why Are Comanche Beds So Hard to Find (and Why They’re For Sale)?

The scarcity of readily available Comanche beds stems from several factors, which also explain why they might occasionally appear on the market:

• Limited Production Numbers: Compared to other pickups of its era, the Comanche had a relatively short production run and lower sales volumes, meaning fewer vehicles (and thus fewer beds) were ever made.
• Rust is the Enemy: Like many vehicles from its time, the Comanche is highly susceptible to rust, particularly in areas exposed to road salt and moisture. The bed, being an open structure with numerous seams and drain points, often rusts out first. Common problem areas include the wheel wells, the lower bedside panels, the bed floor near the tailgate, and the mounting points.
• Damage and Wear: As a utility vehicle, many Comanches were put to hard work. Accidents, impacts from cargo, off-road abuse, and general wear and tear could lead to significant damage to the bed, making replacement a necessity.



• Conversions and Customizations: Some Comanche owners opt for custom modifications, such as flatbed conversions, utility bodies, or even removing the bed entirely for unique builds. This can free up an otherwise good original bed for sale.
• Donor Vehicles: Often, a Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale originates from a "donor" vehicle – a Comanche that is otherwise totaled due to frame damage, engine issues, or severe front-end collision, but still has an intact, salvageable bed.

Understanding these factors helps set realistic expectations for your search and highlights the importance of thorough inspection.

Types of Comanche Beds Available (or Highly Sought After)

When searching for a Comanche bed, you’ll primarily encounter two factory lengths and various conditions:

• Short Bed (6-foot): This is the more common of the two options. While still challenging to find in pristine condition, you’ll see more of these available than the long bed. They are often preferred for their slightly better maneuverability and classic pickup proportions.
• Long Bed (7-foot): The "Holy Grail" for many Comanche enthusiasts. The 7-foot bed is significantly rarer, as fewer long-bed Comanches were produced. If you find one in decent condition, expect to pay a premium.
• Condition Categories:
  • Rust-Free/Excellent: Extremely rare and command top dollar. These usually come from dry, arid climates or vehicles that were meticulously cared for.
  • Minor Surface Rust/Dents: The most common "good" find. These beds will require some bodywork, rust remediation (sanding, wire brushing), and painting, but are structurally sound.
  • Significant Rust/Damage: These might be cheaper but require extensive fabrication, welding, and panel replacement. They are often used as "section donors" where specific panels (like inner wheel wells or tailgate surrounds) are cut out and welded into a less damaged bed.
  • Aftermarket/Custom Fabricated: True OEM-style aftermarket replacement beds for the Comanche are virtually non-existent. Any "aftermarket" options would be custom-fabricated by a skilled metalworker, which is usually a very expensive route.

Where to Look for a Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale

Finding a Comanche bed requires patience, persistence, and knowing where to look:

• Online Marketplaces:
  • Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace: Your best bet for local finds. Search broadly in your region and surrounding states. Use various search terms like "Jeep Comanche bed," "MJ bed," "Comanche truck bed," or "Jeep pickup bed." Be prepared to travel.
  • eBay: Can yield results, especially for smaller components, but shipping a full bed is often cost-prohibitive unless the seller offers freight or you arrange pick-up.
• Dedicated Forums & Social Media Groups:
  • Comanche Club Forum (comancheclub.com): This is the ultimate resource. The "Parts For Sale" section is frequently updated by members. Post a "Want to Buy" (WTB) thread.
  • Facebook Groups: Numerous groups dedicated to Jeep Comanche owners, XJ/MJ parts, or classic Jeeps often have members selling parts. Join and actively participate.
• Salvage Yards/Auto Recyclers:
  • Specialty Jeep Yards: Some yards specialize in older Jeep models. Call ahead and inquire. They might have a Comanche that’s been stripped of other parts but still has a good bed.
  • Local Auto Recyclers: Visit in person if possible. Many yards don’t list their full inventory online.
• Word of Mouth & Enthusiast Networks: Attend local car shows, swap meets, or Jeep events. Talk to other enthusiasts; they might know someone selling a bed or a donor vehicle.
• Specialty Parts Dealers (Limited): While rare, some smaller, independent shops or individuals might occasionally source and resell Comanche parts. These are usually found through forum recommendations.

Key Considerations Before Buying

Before you commit to purchasing a Comanche bed, a thorough assessment is crucial:

• Condition Assessment (Critical):
  • Rust: This is the primary concern. Inspect every seam, the inner and outer wheel wells, the bed floor (especially where water might pool), the tailgate opening, and all mounting points. Ask for detailed photos or perform an in-person inspection. Surface rust is manageable; widespread rot is a deal-breaker unless you’re a skilled fabricator.
  • Dents and Straightness: Check for major dents, creases, or signs of collision damage. Ensure the bed rails are straight and not warped. Look at the tailgate opening for squareness.
  • Tailgate: Is the tailgate included? Many beds are sold without them, and finding a good condition Comanche tailgate (with working hinges and latches) can be another challenging search. Factor this into your budget.
  • Mounting Points: Verify that all the original mounting points and bolt holes are intact and not rusted through or damaged.
• Logistics and Transportation:
  • Size and Weight: Comanche beds are large and surprisingly heavy. You’ll need a full-size pickup truck with a long bed, a flatbed trailer, or a dedicated enclosed trailer for transport.
  • Shipping Costs: Freight shipping can be very expensive, often exceeding the cost of the bed itself. Factor this in if you’re buying from a distant seller. Local pickup is almost always preferred.
  • Storage: Have a dry, secure place to store the bed once you acquire it.
• Price: Condition, rarity (long bed vs. short bed), and location significantly influence the price. Be prepared to pay more for a rust-free, well-preserved example.
• Authenticity: While rare, ensure it’s a genuine Comanche bed and not a modified bed from another truck. Check for distinct Comanche features and mounting points.

Installation and Restoration Tips

Once you’ve secured your Comanche bed, the real work begins:

• Preparation: Thoroughly clean the bed, inside and out. Remove all loose dirt, debris, and existing bed liners.
• Rust Remediation: This is paramount. Wire brush, sandblast, or use chemical rust converters on any surface rust. For deeper rust, cut out affected sections and weld in new patch panels. Use a good quality rust-inhibiting primer.
• Bodywork: Address dents and imperfections. Use body filler sparingly for minor imperfections after metalwork is complete. Aim for smooth, straight panels.
• Paint and Finish: Apply an automotive-grade primer, followed by several coats of automotive paint. You can match your truck’s existing color or opt for a custom look. Consider a durable clear coat for protection.
• Bed Liner/Protection: Apply a spray-in or roll-on bed liner for added durability and protection against scratches and rust in the future. This is highly recommended.
• Mounting: Carefully align the bed to your Comanche’s frame. Use new hardware (bolts, washers, and nuts) if the old ones are rusted or missing. Ensure proper torque specifications are met. It’s best to have at least two strong people or a forklift/engine hoist to safely maneuver the bed.
• Accessories: Reinstall the tailgate, taillights, wiring harness, and any other bed-specific accessories. Test all lights and connections.

Challenges and Solutions

• Finding a Good One: This is the biggest challenge. Solution: Be patient, expand your search radius, utilize all available online and offline resources, and be ready to act quickly when a good one appears.
• High Cost: Good beds are expensive. Solution: Set a realistic budget, consider the cost of repairs versus buying a perfect one, and be open to a bed that requires some work if your skills allow.
• Shipping Difficulties: Large item shipping is complex. Solution: Prioritize local finds, arrange personal pickup, or inquire about freight shipping from the seller (get a firm quote).
• Restoration Skills: Extensive rust or damage requires welding and bodywork skills. Solution: If you lack the skills, factor in the cost of professional bodywork or learn basic welding and metal fabrication. There are many online tutorials and community college courses.

Pricing Table: Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale (Estimates)

Bed Type	Condition Category	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Notes
Short Bed	Rust-Free / Excellent	$1,500 – $3,000+	Very rare; usually from dry climates. May include tailgate/lights.
(6-foot)	Minor Surface Rust / Dents	$800 – $1,500	Most common "good" find. Requires bodywork, rust prep, paint.
	Significant Rust / Damage	$300 – $800	Requires extensive repair/fabrication. Good for sections or skilled DIYer.
Long Bed	Rust-Free / Excellent	$2,500 – $5,000+	Extremely rare; highly sought after.
(7-foot)	Minor Surface Rust / Dents	$1,200 – $2,500	Still rare; requires work.
	Significant Rust / Damage	$500 – $1,200	Requires extensive repair. Less common to find even in poor shape.

Note: Prices are estimates and can vary significantly based on location, seller, market demand, and whether the tailgate, taillights, and other small parts are included.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What years did the Jeep Comanche come with a bed?
A: The Jeep Comanche (MJ) was produced from 1986 to 1992. Any bed you find will be from one of these model years.

Q: Are Comanche beds interchangeable between years?
A: Generally, yes. The beds themselves are largely interchangeable across all MJ model years (1986-1992). Minor differences might exist in mounting hardware or taillight wiring, but the core bed structure is consistent.

Q: Can I put a different truck bed on a Comanche?
A: While possible, it’s not a direct bolt-on. Adapting a bed from another truck (like an S-10, Ranger, or even a different Jeep model) would require significant fabrication, welding, and custom mounting points. This is usually done for highly customized builds and would not retain the original Comanche look or value.

Q: How much does a Comanche bed weigh?
A: A Comanche bed typically weighs between 300-400 pounds (136-181 kg) depending on the length and if the tailgate is attached. This makes it a two-person lift at minimum, and ideally requires a hoist or multiple strong individuals for safe handling and installation.

Q: Is it worth restoring a rusty bed?
A: It depends on the severity of the rust, your budget, and your metalworking skills (or willingness to pay for professional work). For minor surface rust and small perforations, absolutely. For widespread rot that compromises structural integrity, it can be a very time-consuming and expensive undertaking, often costing more than finding a better-condition bed.

Q: Are new replacement beds available for the Jeep Comanche?
A: No, not in the sense of new OEM or aftermarket stamped steel replacement beds. The only "new" options would be custom-fabricated beds by a skilled metal shop, which would be very costly. Your best bet is to find a good used original bed.

Conclusion

The search for a Jeep Comanche Bed For Sale is more than just a parts hunt; it’s a quest to preserve a unique piece of automotive history. The Comanche’s blend of Jeep ruggedness and pickup utility has cemented its place in the hearts of enthusiasts, and a solid bed is crucial to its functionality and aesthetic. While the journey may be challenging, requiring patience, diligent searching, and often a willingness to travel, the reward of finding and restoring this elusive component is immense. It allows you to bring a cherished classic back to life, complete a dream build, or simply ensure the longevity of your beloved MJ. Embrace the challenge, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the enduring legacy of the Jeep Comanche.