OLD SCHOOL OVERLANDER

JASON HELBIG'S 1986 JEEP J10 HAS A CLASSIC ADVENTURE VIBE

Jason Helbig's '86 Jeep J10 overlander was a worthy addition to the 2021 Four Wheeler Overland Adventure Presented by Jeep. The Oregon native was accustomed to off-grid travel and had designed his overlanding J10 specifically for remote adventure. "It was my grandpa's truck," Jason said. "He handed it down to me and I decided to build it for long-distance offroad travel." Jason had the tired AMC 360ci V-8 built to make more torque and horsepower. He also had it powdercoated for good looks and corrosion resistance. A custom exhaust system runs Hedman long-tubes and dual Flowmaster 40 Series 2.5-inch mufflers.

The beast now has enhanced suspension components and rolls on 37-inch tires. The truck's axles are a Dana 44 front and an AMC Model 20 rear, and to up their traction capabilities the front is fitted with a limited-slip differential and the rear has a locker.

With the backbone of his grandfather's J10 made more sturdy and its off-road prowess enhanced, Jason moved on to creature comforts raken that would make days and nights on the trail pleasurable. The Freespirit Recreation rooftop tent offers comfortable off-the-ground accommodations. And the custom bed rack provides a perch for auxiliary fuel storage and propane tanks, as well as storage space for literally a truckload of gear.