Getting started
I bought my first jeep, a 1983 CJ7 , because I'd wanted one for a while. I thought I was smart about the purchase. I looked through it (as best as my Limited knowledge would let me), and I compared it to other jeeps for sale in the area. It seemed like the best bet. I got it home, and drove it for a few short months. On a trip to the DMV 20 miles away, I realized the carburetor needed attention. No problem. Riiiiiight! Don't ever trust a friend who says he loves to take things apart when you're rebuilding a carb for the first time. Especially when he IS really quick at taking things apart, and equally bad at labelling the pieces. And doubly especially when he offers to help you do the rebuild over a six-pack and a movie you both want to watch. I bought a new carb after that diaster. After I got it reinstalled, it ran great except for the leaks that I have been chasing ever since. It's a good idea to replace the plastic valve cover that's stock on most CJ models, with a sturdy metal one. Replace every seal you can. Even if you have to take it somewhere to have it done. That will knock a lot of time off chasing leaks (i.e. your tail). The moral of the story so far is: have fun working on your rig, but stay focused and know where your friends' strengths and weaknesses are when they offer a (sometimes not so) helpful hand.
