Newbie Advice

[cyokom]

I am looking to get a CJ jeep and work on it with my sons. We went looked one the other day 1981 CJ5 with 80k. The body was in decent shape (couple of rust spots/small holes). The motor ran good, especially for sitting all winter. But, the guys asking $6k I am just starting to look but would take any advice you guys can provide.

I am not looking to start from scratch. I would like to get something that we can use/enjoy as we eventually restore it and fix it up.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[jzak]

For a fixer-upper, I dont think its worth more than 3-4K max. That's assuming the everything is in good shape. Did you get under to check the frame, especially by the rear crossmember? If it looks like rusted Swiss cheese, then run away. I would check if 4WD works. The engine looks dry from the pic, but get under it to see what's up. Ask about the carburetor. Has it been rebuilt or replaced? Fuel gremlins is a big problem with these old carbs. I put in a TBI conversion kit on mine, and it helped a lot. Also, ask him if its been driven regularly. Nothing worse than having a CJ parked for 10 years. If there's no softtop or doors, then thats another grand you're going to have to spend. It could be a good project CJ, if the guy's flexible.

 

[mdeluca]

I wanted a CJ5 until I drove a few. They were all squirrelly on the road. After doing tons of research... finally settled on finding a CJ7.

You will get wide track, longer wheel base, more room, and better handling on the road.

Rust is the deal breaker unless you love to weld.

Mine came with the 20 gallon tank which is great. The mid-year 86 gets the Dana 44 rear axle, Dana 30 front axle, Dana 300 transfer case and mine came with the Borg Warner T5 manual transmission. It is lighter duty, but better on the freeway.

Botched up wiring can also be a nightmare.

Patience can pay you back in money and driving pleasure.

 

[jzak]

I wanted a CJ5 until I drove a few. They were all squirrelly on the road. After doing tons of research... finally settled on finding a CJ7.

You will get wide track, longer wheel base, more room, and better handling on the road.

Do we really need to start up the CJ5 VS CJ7 debate again??

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Do we really need to start up the CJ5 VS CJ7 debate again??

Sure-It's been a long winter.
LG

 

[Belizean]

Do we really need to start up the CJ5 VS CJ7 debate again??

Is there debate ? Just getting in and out of a 5 sold me on the 7, 35 years ago. I can't imagine getting in and out of a 5 several times in a day out on the trail now.

 

[mdeluca]

Nothing like a good controversy, especially when you're on the winning side...;]

 

[cglax6]

He's asking for way too much...folks are generally proud of their CJs.

Just depends on how bad you want it. Did you drive it around at all?

Just by the pics you posted, I'd offer $3k...not knowing what it looks like under the body or what behind the dash looks like. Rust and bad wiring are your enemy.

 

[BIG4D]

I would suggest looking at the CJ7. There is more room behind the seat and they drive much better due to the longer wheel base. As for price, they are rapidly increasing in value. I can’t see your pics, but 6k for one in decent shape seems pretty fair.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[jzak]

OK! I can't help myself. You're talking about a 9-inch difference between a (1972-1983) CJ5 and CJ7 wheelbase. Are you honestly telling me 9 inches equals better handling?? Also, the track width of a CJ7 is exactly the same as a CJ5. If a longer wheelbase equalled better handling, then the CJ6 Scrambler would be the best handling Jeep ever made!!

I've been hearing this stuff from CJ7 owners for years, and I think its BS. If you absolutely need an extra 9 inches in leg room, then go for the CJ7, but don't do it, because you think it's going to drive better, because its not!