Designed for military use, the J8 passes one of the world’s toughest durability cycles, which is three times more severe than what civilian applications must endure. The axles are both beefed up to a heavy duty Dana 44 front and a rear Dana 60 axle equipped with Dodge Ram brakes. The frame is built for severe use and the rear suspension uses leaf springs to facilitate more than a 2,500 lb. payload capacity and a increased tow rating.

The AEV J8 MILSPEC will accept two powertrain options which are available through independent AEV dealers. A VM 2.8-liter diesel engine rated at 174 hp and 339 lb.-ft.of torque or a 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI rated at 330 hp and 375 lb.-ft. of torque that uses a pre-installed AEV JK HEMI Kit can be used. Both engine choices use a 5 speed automatic transmission. The vehicles also have a number of military-specific components, including metal spring hood tie downs and tow loops that are rated for helicopter use, diesel models have an air filter capable of running as long as five hours in zero visibility dust storms and a remote-mounted battery. Don’t look for satellite navigation or leather seats, standard options are limited to paint color (Desert Sand or Military Green), a choice of a three door or five door body styles and air conditioning. All rolling chassis are fully assembled (minus the engine and transmission) and include ABS, Airbags, and air conditioning. Standard tires are BFG 255/80R17 KM2 mud tires with black steel wheels.

These vehicles are sold as component chassis only, meaning that they are delivered completely assembled with everything but the engine and transmission installed. They must be completed by the end customer who must install or contract an independent shop to install the engine and transmission (bolt in, plug in, hook up hoses) and register the vehicle as a component vehicle with a state assigned VIN number. For more information contact AEV at 406-251-2100 ext 101.