is this a smart buy? 82 cj7

[strflyr78]

I recently found an all original 82 CJ7 3500. problem is that its been sitting for 5 years...currently isn't running...owner says there is a 50/50 chance it would run again once everything is cleaned and battery is replaced...the steering column needs to be replaced..the seats need to be replaced...he is firm on the price...I'm thinking that the work needed will be more than the cost of the original purchase. how much could I expect to pay to get a decent running jeep with this purchase since I wouldn't be doing any of the repairs myself...thanks for your help.

 

[maos84cj7]

Although I'm in a different country... That price seems steep in todays economy, for something that isn't running and needs work. If you have seen all these flaws already, they will only multiply once you get it home. You also stated that you won,t be doing the work yourself and will be paying someone... That can get expensive quick depending on your intentions...

Did you check the rear frame arches and steering box area for rot and cracks, body mounts, floors?

 

[strflyr78]

the body is straight and rust free except for a small part on the windshield..this would be my first Cj...I really would like one but this one could be more than I'd bargain for

 

[mtnwhlr]

I don't want to sound mean but if you can't do the work yourself then I don't thind a CJ is for you you. They are 30+ year old and need something all the time you may be better off looking at a TJ or new Wrangler IMO.

 

[strflyr78]

thank you for the honest answer. Im all actuality I would be able to do the minor repairs but if the engine is gone I wouldnt be able to do that...I guess I just wanted to know if the $3500 seemed like too steep of a price given the repairs that are needed. I offered 2300 and he seemed to get offended.

 

[Petescj]

For the right buyer a stock almost rust free Arizona CJ7 is going to get that price. He just has to find that guy. With a vehicle sitting that long for reasons unkown you will probably be in over your head. This is the type of Cj best left for someone who wants to do a frame off restoration.

$3500 seemed like too steep of a price given the repairs that are needed. I offered 2300 and he seemed to get offended.

 

[hole]

I'd pass if I were you, a 50% chance of running doesn't inspire much confidence. Be patient, there will be others to come along that will at least run

 

[BajaEdition]

I would not want to depend on a 35 plus year old not running jeep as a form of dependable transportation
As can bee seen by reading around here CJs are pieces of pride that owners have. we also have thread after thread about working on them and where to source parts, many parts are hard to find and a lot of Cjs do not even run original parts so you have other issues
are Cjs a good buy? Yes if you like to work on your junk, if you are looking for a DD, no CJ is a good buy, they are antique vehicles not modern and new.
Best answer I can give you

 

[Old Dog]

I have to agree with everyone as far as cj owners having to be able to work on there own stuff, or have way more money than they know what to do with.
I also know here in the rust belt a rust free cj would fetch more than 3500 even if it wasn't running. Not sure where your at though, check around and see what people are getting.
There's no telling what could be wrong with the engine, it might fire right up or it could need a total rebuild.

 

[strflyr78]

thanks for all the help guys...i think im going to pass on this one...i'll just be patient the perfect jeep for me will come along eventually.

 

[BajaEdition]

I see you are from Phoenix, trust me there are a lot of rust free CJs running around, what you need to find is one that is in great shape and running.

 

[hole]

strflyr78, How far would you travel? There's a few that seem nice enough, by the add, here in the Inland Empire 4-6 hours west of you. Under 5k too. I'm sure it wouldn't be too hard to get a member out here to take a look at one to let you know it's worth the drive. Here's an example 1986 cj7 jeep American / trade for RV?or I can take over payments??

 

[Tinman22]

Find a yj, f.I. 4.0 , better frame , decent driveline, priced reasonably, and put a cj front clip on it. Viola!! Daily driver.