Jeep Gladiator JT Build

Vehicle Build

Jeep Gladiator JT Build

4th March, 2022

For decades, Jeep fans could only dream of adding a Wrangler based pickup to their fleet. The last glimpse of a Jeep pickup was close to 30 years ago with the Comanche MJ and CJ10 a few years prior. However, the original Jeep truck was something that many had forgotten or simply not aware of – the J-Series aka the original Gladiator. Production began back in 1962 and continued up until 1988. Based on the Jeep Wagoneer platform, this beast was the go-to all-around pickup at the time and even received some love from the United States Military who added it to their short list of fleet vehicles.

But the Jeep pickup craze didn’t end in the 20th century. In fact, it only grew stronger; to the point that many began converting their Wrangler’s into pickups. Whether it be with aftermarket hardtops and bulkheads for the Jeep LJ, Mopar weld-on conversion kits for the Jeep JK Unlimited, or AEV’s Brute full truck conversion for the Jeep JK and TJ platforms.

Trucks never fell off Jeep’s radar; in fact, they had been teasing Jeep pickup concepts since the early 2000’s. Constantly featuring new concepts at shows and events such as Easter Jeep Safari. So, the hope for an official Jeep pickup truck was never lost.

In 2017, the rumors of Jeep trucks began circulating as they did every demi-decade. But for some odd reason, the latest rumors felt different, and we were more hopeful than ever.

In late 2018, our dreams finally came true when it was finally revealed at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Rumor has it that Jeep was torn between a few names – amongst similar platforms such as the Scrambler and Comanche; however, ultimately landed on the original Jeep pickup – The Gladiator aka Jeep JT (Jeep Truck).

It came with mixed reviews, as do most vehicles upon their release; however, the hype wasn’t short lived. This vehicle has been able to keep up with all of the other popular off-road platforms. Although its length may limit itself on certain trails, its versatility is unmatched.

Our Gladiator has been amongst our fleet since the initial release, but it’s never had a proper introduction. Meet Russell – our 2020 Jeep Gladiator JT. Fitted with all of the ARB goodies, some new and some upcoming – here’s how we built it.