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[ccshaw66]

1983 CJ7 Renegade - New Build Project

Well, my cousin had an 1983 CJ7 that he rolled a few months ago, and since then it's been passed around between our families while we try to decide if anyone wants to take it on as a project.

I'm considering taking it on as my restoration project, and I'm hoping some of ya'll can tell me what all that would entail, and if it'd even be worth it.

Right now it starts and runs.

Pictures are attached.

 

[7D8CJ]

Re: 1983 CJ7 Renegade - New Build Project

Lots of time and money ought to do it.

 

[ccshaw66]

How do I even get started on it? What would my first steps be? Should I just go at it with a wrench and a crowbar and try to strip it down to the frame? The CJ7 replacement bodies I've found online are 3-4k, which are more than I expected. Are there other bodies that would be compatible with it? Maybe YJ's or CJ5 's, and would they be any cheaper?

 

[7D8CJ]

Re: 1983 CJ7 Renegade - New Build Project

Looks like the body's pretty well mangled. I would strip the body parts off and make sure the frame and drivetrain are OK.

 

[Petescj]

How do I even get started on it? What would my first steps be? Should I just go at it with a wrench and a crowbar and try to strip it down to the frame? The CJ7 replacement bodies I've found online are 3-4k, which are more than I expected. Are there other bodies that would be compatible with it? Maybe YJ's or CJ5 's, and would they be any cheaper?

Not sure about your area but I can usually find a descent Yj tub around here for between $500 and $800. Check out this link.

certifiablejeep.com - Third Project Build-up - Conclusions

 

[gert]

I would look at the frame first to make sure its good and then start looking for parts. Once you have your parts then you can strip it down and prep it to go back together.

 

[TexasBlues]

Im with gert... frame and drive train are the most important...

luckily i have a source for JEEP parts here... hes my go-to guy for stuff...

in fact the ONLY things that are original (from the one i bought) are the engine and the xmsn/TC... tub/frame/axles/roll cage all from donors...

it ll be a 75/76/85 CJ5 ....

but its gonna be SWEET!