Build Thread 1972 CJ5 build. New member.

[Dutch1980]

Hello fellow members. I just acquired a 1972 CJ5 from the original owner with the original bill of sale with options, manuals, etc. I am wanting to build it for my 12 year old son as his first car. My first car was a 1980 Jeep CJ7 back in 1985. It has no motor, a T-18 , and a Dana 20 . I bellieve the axles are the stock Dana 30 in the front and Dana 44 in the rear. I want to build it as a daily driver, some off-road wheeling, fire roads, camping. I am considering installing a 5.3 vortec, but I would like to know how that all works with the wiring harness and computer. Here are some pics. It is pretty rough, but it cost me some labor (about $400) I have the doors with roll up windows for the top, and back hatch in fairly good condition. As you can see, Me and my 11 and 7 year old sons tore it down a bit today.

 

[Peanut Butter]

:ww: to the forum. Looks like you have your work cut out for you, but you also have some help with the two sons. Sounds like a really good project for you and the boys!

 

[Lumpy Grits]

:ww:

PLEASE keep us post'd.
LG

 

[Hedgehog]

Now go out and find a Wagoneer with a decent 360 in it or find one at a junk yard or on Craigslist and drop her in that big ol' hole left by the missing engine. Don't worry, the T-18 can take it. All in all a good lookin' CJ.

 

[Posi]

Welcome,

Your CJ looks to be in good shape, a lot to work with there. Should be a fun project with your sons.

I would suggest rethinking your engine decision. A short wheel base Jeep (84") is a lot to handle for an inexperience driver, installing a V8 would add to the difficulties. Just saying.

 

[mtnwhlr]

Welcome,

Your CJ looks to be in good shape, a lot to work with there. Should be a fun project with your sons.

I would suggest rethinking your engine decision. A short wheel base Jeep (84") is a lot to handle for an inexperience driver, installing a V8 would add to the difficulties. Just saying.

 

[Crawfish00]

I just got a 79 myself. Mines kinda a rust bucket. Looking around for a new frame b4 I start to strip it down.

 

[defibvt]

Now go out and find a Wagoneer with a decent 360 in it or find one at a junk yard or on Craigslist and drop her in that big ol' hole left by the missing engine. Don't worry, the T-18 can take it. All in all a good lookin' CJ.

Don't listen to Hedgehog. He is bad influence. He is correct about the
T-18 though.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Don't listen to Hedgehog. He is bad influence. He is correct about the
T-18 though.

With BOTH statements-



LG

 

[Woolyworm]

My dad bought me a used 79 Yamaha yz 125 when I was 13 after I hounded him for a three wheeler for a couple of years. I was terrified of it but loved it too - also survived. I have a 12 year old daughter now and couldn't imagine putting her or a son on that bike now - interesting . A nice steady six might be better but the 360 sure would be fun. Good luck!


Wooly