1978 body on 1970 frame

[Bradgh]

Hello,

I'm looking to put a 1978 body on a 1970 frame, I understand there is some modification required such as body mounts and clutch/brake linkages.

Just curious if any one has done this swap and if so could give me any advice.

Thank you kindly,

Brad

 

[jdarg]

Re: 1978 body on 1978 frame

You'll have some challenges but anything is possible with the right tools.

A 1970 CJ5 (I assume you are talking CJ5 's here) is several inches shorter than a 72+ CJ5 . The area in front of the cowl was elongated several inches by AMC in order to accomodate the inline engines starting w/ the 72 model year.

The were also a change starting in 76 where the rear half of the frame kicked out, vs. being parallel from front to back on all CJs prior to that year.

Frankly I would look a newer platform for your project. A 76+ frame is going to be a bolt-in. Anything older will need possible lengthening and widening/and-or modifications to how the tub is mounted in the rear.

 

[johnnyreb]

a 76 up frame is fully boxed, so it would be stronger. I was under the impression that a tub was a tub from 1955 through 1983. Yes amc lengthened the front fenders to hold the inline 6.

 

[jdarg]

Right that's the problem - the 70 frame is shorter than 72+ so new front core mounts, etc. have to be done and you can almost forget running a winch unless you lengthen the frame horns on the front.

The boxing on the 76+ frames isn't that great. The inner section is essentially sheet metal. If anything a pre '76 frame will be easier to box front to rear "correctly" with 10-12 gauge steel. I know the 72-75 frames are boxed in front but not the rear, not 100% sure about pre '72 being boxed in the front, probably not.

 

[johnnyreb]

He wasnt asking about the engine. You could put the 78 tub on and fab new mounts out of 2x4 box tubing and reuse the 70 front clip. What engine are you planing to use?