light reto

[1984 CJ7]

So, I was thinking about taking my Jeep down to the frame and just restoring it. But, it is almost in perfect shape. It does need new frame bushings and I am sure it could use a lot of other stuff. No rust, no body work or really paint. But, it would be nice to redo the brake lines, power coat the frame and make it like new again. What would be the cost for a light restoration? Granted, there are a lot of unknown stuff. I am thinking around 5 to 10k?

 

[73CJ]

Are you doing the labor?

If so 5-10k will buy a lot of parts. How showroom perfect do you want to go?

I don't like to total up costs. Takes the fun out of it.

just Empty Every Pocket

 

[1984 CJ7]

yep, I would do the labor. Maybe not "show room" but make it a VERY reliable, no worries rig. maybe even go to EFI at that point.

 

[73CJ]

Should be very doable.

I like to pull it all down. Take an inventory and prioritize to get the frame done first. Then you have places to put all the other finished parts as they get done.

If you plan on keeping it forever, might as well go through all the axels, trannys and motor.

Count on a lot of new rubber parts.

Poly bushings for springs are recommended.

Start. A build thread and start posting pics and questions.

 

[1984 CJ7]

Yep, I already had the T-5 rebuilt and the engine rebuilt. I did poly in the springs as well. But, i will need new springs so i guess I will have to just reuse the ones in there. I will start an inventory and by fall time comes, iwill be ready to start. i want to drive her around in the summer so I don't want to start now!

 

[PaRenegade]

I'm not sure what your thinking of replacing but I'll bet you could do it for $3-5k, unless you do an efi, then add $2k more. Your tires, wheels, and suspension would really be your only big items. It's a pretty broad question.

 

[Tinman22]

If you do the work yourself and hunt for deals like its your last dollar that much money will go a long way. I haven't even spent that much yet.

 

[thiswontbetooexpensive]

With rebuilding the engine, new bushings all the way around, new shock mount plates, blasting and painting the frame myself, body work with a sledge hammer, bed-lining the inside and bottom of the tub, new windshield frame, brake lines all the way around, all new rear drums, and new seats X3......

I'm into my 1980 for about $3k. (So far only $500 in new tools that are absolutely necessary like an engine hoist and brake tools) I'm sure another $1k could be spent for a new top and some doors used, but this will get it registered and inspected again hopefully before the summer is over. God willing and if the creek don't rise!

I have been pleasently surprised at the affordibility of the parts for this CJ. I guess the same parts fit so many different years, it is easier and cheaper to keep some on the shelves.