2023 SLC Outdoor Expo -- Core 4x4 and the MJ Comanche Build

Core 4x4 hits the 2023 Salt Lake City Outdoor Off-Road Expo with their MJ Comanche build and a booth full of suspension parts.

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2023 SLC Outdoor Off-Road Expo – Core 4x4 and the MJ Comanche Build

Core 4x4 showed up to the 2023 Salt Lake City Outdoor Off-Road Expo with more than just a booth — they brought a fully built 1988 Jeep Comanche MJ that went from a $2,500 farm truck out of Elko, Nevada, to a show-quality trail rig appraised at over $41,000. Here is the build breakdown and what it took to get there.

1988 Jeep Comanche MJ at the 2023 SLC Outdoor Off-Road Expo built with Core 4x4 parts

The MJ Comanche Build: From Farm Truck to Show Rig

The build started about 18 months before the expo with a totally stock 1988 Jeep Comanche MJ — an old four-wheel-drive farm truck from Nevada with 180,000 miles on the original gauge cluster. The straight-six engine was pulled, and the owner went through every nut and bolt on the vehicle.

Here is what the build involved:

Full 2000 Cherokee front-end swap: The entire front end was replaced with 2000 XJ Cherokee components, including the motor, drivetrain, and electronics
High-output 4.0L engine: The 2000 Cherokee high-output straight-six replaced the original powerplant
Core 4x4 suspension: All suspension work was done with Core 4x4 components — control arms, track bars, and steering
Artec trusses on the Dana 30: Welded on by Core 4x4 to strengthen the front axle for larger tires and trail use
WJ knuckle swap: High-steer knuckles from a Grand Cherokee WJ with relocated sway bar links for improved geometry
4.56 gears: Regeared front and rear to match the 35-inch tires
Dirt Bound bumper with 9,000-lb winch: Trail-ready front end protection and recovery
Interior swap: Complete interior replaced to match the modern drivetrain

Close-up of Core 4x4 control arms and suspension on the MJ Comanche at the SLC expo

Core 4x4’s Role in the Build

Core 4x4 handled everything that bolts to the chassis and connects the axles to the frame. That means all the control arms, the track bars, the steering components, and the fabrication work on the axles — including welding the Artec trusses to the Dana 30 front axle. As the builder put it: “Anything and everything that Core 4x4 builds, I put on here.”

This is a good example of what Core 4x4 parts look like in a complete build. The suspension is not just a set of arms bolted on as an afterthought — it is an integrated system designed to work together with the rest of the drivetrain and axle setup.

Front axle and high-steer WJ knuckle swap on the MJ Comanche with Core 4x4 parts

The Numbers

Detail	Spec
Vehicle	1988 Jeep Comanche MJ
Purchase price	$2,500
Appraised value (post-build)	$41,250
Build time	18 months
Engine	2000 Cherokee high-output 4.0L
Axle gearing	4.56
Tires	35-inch
Odometer	180,000 miles (original)

Going from a $2,500 purchase to a $41,250 appraisal in 18 months is the kind of transformation that makes MJ Comanches one of the most rewarding platforms to build. They are increasingly rare, and a well-built example commands real money at shows and in the resale market.

Rear view of the MJ Comanche showing 4.56 gears and rear axle work at the SLC expo

About the SLC Outdoor Off-Road Expo

The Salt Lake City Outdoor Off-Road Expo is one of the premier off-road events in the Mountain West. It brings together builders, manufacturers, and enthusiasts from across the region to showcase builds, demo products, and connect with the community. For a Utah-based manufacturer like Core 4x4, it is a home-turf event and a chance to meet customers face to face.

Crowd at the 2023 SLC Outdoor Off-Road Expo with off-road vehicles on display

Frequently Asked Questions

A 2000 Cherokee front-end swap replaces the older MJ front clip, engine, and drivetrain with components from a 2000 XJ Cherokee. This gives the Comanche a more modern high-output 4.0L engine, updated electronics, and compatibility with later-model XJ parts. It is one of the most popular upgrades for MJ Comanche builds.

A WJ knuckle swap replaces the factory steering knuckles on an XJ or MJ with knuckles from a Grand Cherokee WJ. This moves the steering tie rod above the axle (high steer) instead of below it, which reduces the risk of bending or breaking steering components on rocks. It also improves steering geometry for lifted vehicles.

Yes. The MJ Comanche shares its chassis and suspension with the XJ Cherokee, so Core 4x4 XJ parts fit the Comanche directly. This includes adjustable control arms, long arm kits, track bars, steering components, and bump stops. Core 4x4 also provides fabrication services like axle trussing and custom welding.

The exact build cost was not disclosed in the video, but the vehicle was purchased for $2,500 and appraised at $41,250 after the build. The 18-month project involved a complete drivetrain swap, full suspension overhaul, axle work, interior swap, bumpers, a winch, and 35-inch tires with 4.56 gears.

The SLC Outdoor Off-Road Expo is typically held in early spring in the Salt Lake City, Utah area. Check the event website for current year dates and exhibitor information. Core 4x4 has exhibited at the event and showcased customer builds alongside their product line.