CJ 7 Changes

[ddp]

I am really liking this Jeep. I am real dumb and not sure what kind of steps to take. I took a second part time job to have play money to put into Jeep. It is 1981 CJ7 AMC 258 i6 / 4.2l SR4 tranmission. I dont plan on a lot of off roading but would like
to be able to if I wanted. The body and frame is in very good shape so plan on Transmission and needed changes for a long time use. I really dont know all that I need to do but figured this is the place for advice. So please let it roll and remember I am simple minded so make it easy for me.

Hope this is the right place to post this

Thanks

 

[Torxhead]

I would suggest making sure it is operating correctly and making sure that the maintaince is up to date. Then go out in the dirt and figure out whats needed. Some guys are happy just the way they are.

 

[007]

It ALL depends on what you want to do with it. But make it safe first...


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[mtnwhlr]

I live by the motto ( if it's not broke don't fix it ) you may get many many years out of what you have. I guess what I'm saying is go out and enjoy it and don't worry about it . IMO

 

[Old Dog]

I agree safety first.
It all depends on what you like, but once you modify it it's hard to stop.
A stock jeep with decent tires will get you a long way off road if you can drive.

 

[Saddle Tramp]

Your post seems similar to others we’ve had lately. You stated “long term” use but it may take a little long term use to come up with what you want. The standard Transmission swap is going to be a T-18 to get the granny low for off road use but as Mtwhlr said if it’s not broke don’t fix it. Having said that if you decide what direction you want to go with a system (like swap in a T-18 for example) it gives you time to find the parts and have them on the shelf waiting for when you have the time or need. To me the search is half the fun anyway but can be no fun when you need it to get your jeep back on the road. One important piece of advice I can offer is if you are going to do a swap or upgrade make sure you have EVERYTHING that you need to complete the work in hand first before you tear into the jeep or you could just end up with another unfinished project sitting in the garage with stacked on it.

 

[Hedgehog]

The SR4 nightmare Transmission was partnered with the 4 cylinder GM 151 Iron Duke. The I-6 285 motor usually didn't have an SR4 , usually more in the line of a T-5 . I'm not real solid on this though. If you have anything other than the SR4 your in far better shape, the early '80s transmisions were generally poorly matched to the Jeep. The SR4 tended to jump out of 2nd gear and have other troubles. Non crippling, but a pain in the neck. Most Transmission shops won't touch'em because repairs don't seem to last, sometimes only for hours at a time. With that being said, if the transmision works don't mess with it.

 

[ddp]

I am guessing it is an SR4 because of the shift pattern . reverse is up where first would be.

 

[Hedgehog]

An SR4 is a 4 speed with first is where first should be. Oddly enough I can't remember where reverse is, but in a properly working SR4 you have to press down on the stick to go in reverse. Thank god you don't have an SR4 , you might have a decent Transmission that will last.

 

[ddp]

First is where first should be but reverse is beside first. UP and over beside first. I am afraid it is SR4 . It seems to be working OK until tonight,maybe not Transmission but when in reverse and push clutch in sort of make a clanking noise when drifting backwards. Does not do it when going forward. First time I have heard this. Sometimes I am afraid I am just looking for something.