Looking for help with the roll bar on a 1976 + CJ5

[pblanton]

I have a 1973 CJ5 with the straight up roll bar. I want to fabricate a cage, but don't like the factory straight up roll bar.

In 1976, they leaned the roll bar back a bit. I understand that they still bolted to the top of the rear fender and through the tub. Sometime in mid 1978 (?) they changed the front part of the roll bar to go down in front of the rear fenders and plant on the floor behind the seats. I understand that those won't work on my 1973, so I think I'm looking for a 1976 - mid 1978 factory roll bar that leans back a bit rather than going straight up and down, and still bolts to the rear fenders and through the tub like the 1973 does.

Any ideas? Am I on the right track?

And most importantly, does any one know where I can find one?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Posi]

Yes, 76-78, and possibly an early 79 but I've never seen one.
Check local salvage yards and CL their out there for $50-$100.
I have an extra 77 wheel well rollbar sitting in my shop but I'm on the east coast. I'm sure if you search you'll find one locally.

 

[Torxhead]

You could also have a local welding shop do all the work for you if you don't weld. Stop by one and get a quote for the work, Just make sure it will clear the softop when it is installed. Check out some Jeep CJ pics on the internet for some design ideas like adding on some grab handles.

 

[Hedgehog]

If you are going to fabricate a cage it would be easy enough to notch the existing roll bar at the bottom band it back to the angle you like and weld it in place. It would be a fairly simple job.

 

[Posi]

Below is a 78 CJ being parted out near you (Aurora), I'd check to see if the roll cage is available.

https://denver.craigslist.org/pts/5334173624.html

 

[steve1973]

I put a 76 roll bar on my 73. I to like the slight rake it gives.


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[73CJ]

Nice pic steve1973

Does not look like the angle really moves the top bar location much if any.

Key would be a measurement from top top top the windshield frame to the top tube.

It does make it look faster.

Just my 2 cents.

 

[Hedgehog]

Faster, I love that .... in a CJ faster is not getting stuck ... faster .... :driving:

 

[steve1973]

I can take the measurement today. I can tell you that the original Whitco top does fit with no issues.


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[steve1973]

About 29.5 inches, center to center.


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