CJ7 Build Questions (20k Budget)
So I am looking a purchasing a CJ7 used sometime in the next few months and building a trail toy, not something that will be driven as a grocery or errand runner. The vehicle would be driven to and from trails since my Ranger is not big enough to tow much past 2200lbs so it has to be street legal. The Ranger is my daily driver.
I must admit that I don't know much about wrenching aside from the basics like oil changes and very minor repairs that don't require removing or messing with major components (Tires, oil, air filters and minor electrical) although I could probably learn especially with someone in my area who has the tools and knowledge. As such this would be mostly built by a shop. I also do not know much about good and bad 4x4 parts so that is why I am here.
I will be wheeling in Colorado (I live 25 minutes north of Denver). I am not looking for a beast jeep that will take me up Carnage Canyon or Holy Cross or Patriot trail for that matter. I am looking to build something that I can take just about anywhere on moderate/easy trails and have the flexibility for bigger trails if I desire. Many of these trails out here run the spectrum of conditions from rocky to sandy to muddy so please take that into consideration.
Here's where all you experienced jeepers come in;
You have 20k to build said CJ7 . Average price of decent late 80's CJ7 around here is about $3.5k. Assume solid straight frame and minimal to 0 rust problems. This is a complete tear down and rebuild/replace of drive train, engine, wheels, tires, brakes, armor, electrical etc. Heat and AC are nice but not necessary. This thing should be pretty damn tough and durable, capable of taking a beating if needed. I could care less about the paint since I would rather NOT worry about scratching it up. You can use as little or as much of the budget as you would like. Parts can be new or used but prefer new unless a rebuild wouldn't be much different in terms of durability.
Parts I think I would like:
Rebuilt AMC 304 V8 or Chevy 350 V8
Dana 44 Front and Rear with Lockers
2-3.5' Suspension Lift
33-35' Tires
Full Disc Brakes
Beefed up steering
Any input on this is GREATLY appreciated. Really hope you guys can help me out. Go crazy, go wild, just let me know what YOU would do with the given budget.
I must admit that I don't know much about wrenching aside from the basics like oil changes and very minor repairs that don't require removing or messing with major components (Tires, oil, air filters and minor electrical) although I could probably learn especially with someone in my area who has the tools and knowledge. As such this would be mostly built by a shop. I also do not know much about good and bad 4x4 parts so that is why I am here.
I will be wheeling in Colorado (I live 25 minutes north of Denver). I am not looking for a beast jeep that will take me up Carnage Canyon or Holy Cross or Patriot trail for that matter. I am looking to build something that I can take just about anywhere on moderate/easy trails and have the flexibility for bigger trails if I desire. Many of these trails out here run the spectrum of conditions from rocky to sandy to muddy so please take that into consideration.
Here's where all you experienced jeepers come in;
You have 20k to build said CJ7 . Average price of decent late 80's CJ7 around here is about $3.5k. Assume solid straight frame and minimal to 0 rust problems. This is a complete tear down and rebuild/replace of drive train, engine, wheels, tires, brakes, armor, electrical etc. Heat and AC are nice but not necessary. This thing should be pretty damn tough and durable, capable of taking a beating if needed. I could care less about the paint since I would rather NOT worry about scratching it up. You can use as little or as much of the budget as you would like. Parts can be new or used but prefer new unless a rebuild wouldn't be much different in terms of durability.
Parts I think I would like:
Rebuilt AMC 304 V8 or Chevy 350 V8
Dana 44 Front and Rear with Lockers
2-3.5' Suspension Lift
33-35' Tires
Full Disc Brakes
Beefed up steering
Any input on this is GREATLY appreciated. Really hope you guys can help me out. Go crazy, go wild, just let me know what YOU would do with the given budget.
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