Build Thread $600 CJ5!

[Tim_Coble]

Found this 76 CJ5 on FB, picked it up for $600! The tub and windshield frame are a total loss but I think I can save the hood, fenders and grill. The frame has surface rust but I only see one possible crack near the one spring hanger (once I strip the body, I'll know more). The drive train is complete and everything looks pretty good. PO said it was being driven just 2 years ago. Rusty wheels and dry rot tires were removed and a quick pressure wash got her camera ready.

Specs: 76 CJ5 AMC 304 T-150

 

[Tim_Coble]

I pulled the plugs, oil is dirty but I don't see anything concerning there. Mice have eaten up all the wiring, spent close to what I paid for the TR ignition upgrades at Summit.

The pressure wash showed me the tub is worse than I thought. Im pretty sure only gravity and those janky running boards are holding it on. Time to get out the grinder and some cutoff wheels.

 

[KRUPP]

That's a project for sure. The more you get into it, the more items you'll find need addressed.
There are still plenty of sources for parts. It's all a process though and have fun with it!

 

[Belizean]

That one might have some ground issues.

 

[Tim_Coble]

A little progress this morning before it got too hot. The running boards are history! The roll bar and hardware for the soft top were removed too. Out of the 18 bolts holding the roll bar, 3 came off in one piece, 3 snapped off, 2 broke through the body(!) and the final 10 got the cutoff wheel.

Trying to decide if I should go fiberglass or continue looking for a decent tub. I've read/heard nothing but problems with the MD Juan tubs.

FYI - I got Yukon gear master kits for both diffs at half price from Amazon. Once I get down to the frame, I'm rebuilding everything so might as well pick up the parts when I find a deal.

 

[Belizean]

Well unfortunately they all can’t be saved. The good thing is you aren’t very deep into it. Maybe find a better candidate that won’t take that much time, money and sweat equity. But if you can do it, Go for it !

 

[Tim_Coble]

Well unfortunately they all can’t be saved. The good thing is you aren’t very deep into it. Maybe find a better candidate that won’t take that much time, money and sweat equity. But if you can do it, Go for it !

I'll get there just going to keep working on it a bit at a time. My goal is to be running a trail by spring. I just don't know if I should keep looking for a tub or bite the bullet and order a new fiberglass. I contacted Shell Valley for more info on their tubs. Nice thing is I have a template for the firewall.

 

[Tim_Coble]

Another Sunday and a bit more progress - fenders, windshield, dash, and steering column have been removed.

Windshield broke off at the hinges after I removed the dash latch plates and tried to fold it. Oh well, I knew that was a loss anyway.

The body bolt on the grill started coming out but is now spinning - it's the cutoff wheel for it next time. The hood hinges have been removed but I figure if the grill is in place might as well leave the hood on.

Getting closer to starting some actual restoration work, I'm excited for that.

I thought I had a deal lined up on a tub but he sold it to someone else. I'll keep looking.

 

[CJ]

Keep chugging along!