ARB was a six-year-old business when the CJ-8 was introduced in 1981 as a limited release. In fact, it was one of the first models distributed Down Under after Jeep established a long-awaited corporate entity called Jeep Australia. Now, a custom Jeep program born from a coalition of premium brands is reviving the CJ-8 for modern-day use.
Known equally for quality and style, Ball and Buck led the effort to upfit CJ-8s for adventurers who want to get off the grid in style. For those that lived in the 80s, it’s hard to deny – they nailed it.
Ball and Buck sources these original vehicles and incorporates modern technology that improves drivability, functionality, and comfort while maintaining the timeless appearance. The ARB Overland Edition includes over 15 added features that are exclusive to this model. Hand-crafted by builder Kyle Smith of Bird Buggy, the reimagined Jeep features a Safari snorkel, the ARB BASE Rack system with attached awning from ARB Touring, custom steel bumpers with front and rear shackles, an on-board air compressor, and ARB high intensity LED lighting.
Craftsmanship is all about the details and Ball and Buck’s thought-out approach to this build is to be commended.
All photos are courtesy of Sinuhe Xavier.