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Build Thread 1985 CJ7/5.3L build

Build Thread 1985 CJ7/5.3L build
mattjp84 said:
Trying to find the fuel pump wire harness that u got going thru the sending unit with no luck at all do u have a part # or any think on it
is the pump still working good
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Still working great. This harness was from a F150, and I just drilled hole in the sending unit and used JBWeld to seal the hole. Figured there was really no reason I'd ever need to take it out. Hasn't leaked at all. Really pleased.
 
Update.

Had a little rollover issue at my annual Jeep Run this year.
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So, I figured it was time to give her a little TLC. Mixed the paint color myself using Rustoleum (because it's cheap and durable)...let the color coats cure for 48 hours, then scuffed it and shot Urethane clear over top. A lot of "internet experts" said you couldn't shoot clear over Rustoleum....but the proof is in the pudding. Now, that said, it may lift after a couple years...only time will tell. Looks pretty good right now. Decal kit from Phoenix Graphics should be here in a few days. Marker lights and some other small things are on backorder, apparently.

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Decals came in tonight. She sure is pretty now....but we all know that won't last long. :D:chug:

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Very cool! I'm currently looking for a 350 TBI motor for my 83 CJ7 . Trying to see how those before me have accomplished the swap. I bet you'll love the added power.
 
SDCJ said:
Very cool! I'm currently looking for a 350 TBI motor for my 83 CJ7 . Trying to see how those before me have accomplished the swap. I bet you'll love the added power.
Click to expand...

Yeah, this is significantly different than a TBI motor, but yes...the power and reliability are fantastic. :D
 
Very nice!! Looking at a TPI 350 and tranny out of an 84 vette to swap into my 83 CJ7 . I apologize if I missed this question being asked previously but... did you have to change/add front leaf springs to carry this motor?
 
SDCJ said:
Very nice!! Looking at a TPI 350 and tranny out of an 84 vette to swap into my 83 CJ7 . I apologize if I missed this question being asked previously but... did you have to change/add front leaf springs to carry this motor?
Click to expand...

I have 2.5" BDS springs, but when I originally did the swap I had the factory springs. Didn't sag them at all. However, the 5.3L engine has aluminum heads and a plastic intake so it doesn't weigh much compared to an older SBC.
 
Well, I guess time to update again.

Getting ready for a cross-country Ultimate Adventure style trip next week. I wanted to get rid of the factory bumper and build a more substantial rear tire carrier. Few pics:

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Simple latch system (wanted something quick & easy that DID NOT rattle).
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Pivot bearing is a big, heavy, coulter bearing. It doesn't sag a bit. Very pleased.
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Front bumper mock-up before paint.
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After paint. Old ratty license plate and roller fairlead really "junk" it up now. :D
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Also bought a new Bestop Supertop w/doors & hardware for it. We are heading out to Leadville, CO next week and didn't want to chance foul weather while a thousand miles from home.

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I've also thrown a set of 4340 axles in the front, and upgraded the steering draglink and tie-rod to the 1.2" Rugged Ridge DOM kit. Hopefully we will be able to make the whole trip without any major breakage. Should be a total of around 2500 miles, and LOTS of Colorado trails.


Couple other recent pics, just for eye candy.

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(still with the crappy old stock bumper)
 
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I too am just finishing up an 85cj build. Pretty much stock except for motor and tranny. Had an almost new 350 chev with an rv cam in it, picked up a 350 turbo auto, kovak engine mounts and tranny coupler. I was surprised at how easy it slipped in. Didn't have to cut the driveshafts or do any major work on body or frame.
Used the power steering on the chev, wiring was a snap. Only thing I am worried about is omg, fired it up and with just light pressure on the throttle it chirpped the tires in the shop.
Making a rear bumper so I can put a receiver on for the small fishing boat and quad/bike hauler.
The color is from the axles up is desert sand. will have the stars and numbers of the unit I served with on the bumpers.
I may have put this in some other thread, just excited to get it done. Hopefully the remaining parts will be in soon. The rear lights I am changing out to 65 mustang. I do like that post with the nice rear tire holder. Might have to fab one up for mine.

Sure appreciate the builds and talents of those personalizing their rigs. ty.
 
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Cant open pictures, I also have a CJ7 and in the process of putting a chevy 350 in it with a 350 automatic Transmission . Did you turn your rear end up because of the shot distance between the rear end and the transrer case? I have about 16"
 
Myjeepsbigger, could you possiblly post a picture of the swing bearing assembly? Thanks Rod
 
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