New Jeep CJ Frames, who is still making them ?

[Busted Knuckles]

I was putzing on google today, it appears that Matkins, and AFW, or Advanced Frame works websites are questionable, not sure if they are being maintained, links missing, check them out if you want to know what I mean. Throttle Down Customs appears to be alive and well. Are there any others out there ?

Im thinking about starting a "from scratch build" with a new frame and new body. My 83 Laredo is still so close to stock and 100% rust/damage free, I may put it back 100% stock, was thinking of doing a hybrid Cj/Tj from scratch.

Was wondering what is known about whos still in the frame game, and any caveats with any of the players, anybody bought a new frame and have any comments ?

 

[BusaDave9]

That's quite a project. Throttle Down Kustoms is definutly alive a well. I have never used thier products but I see them for sale on lots of sites such as Quadratec and Acme.
Throttle Down Kustoms CJ7 Jeep Frames

Throttle Down Kustoms CJ7 FRAME - Mandrel-Bent Steel Frame for 82-86 Jeep® CJ-7 (Wide-Track) - Quadratec
Make sure to post your progress. This will be interesting.
:lpopcorn:

 

[Busted Knuckles]

I got to thinking about it, if you are going to do a build where you replace everything, why not just start out with what you want.

Was thinking Dana 60/60, LSx/4l85E, Dana 300 , and TJ Long Arm Coils. New frame/tub, and all new hardware. Would look all Cj but be all late model power (as long as you didnt look under it, or under the hood).

 

[54cj3b]

you also have another option for a frame

a DJ5 postal jeep frame is almost identical as a cj except it has a boxed frame which is a stronger foundation

 

[Starbrick Jim]

Greetings. I am new to the forum and also to start on my 1983 Renegade project. I believe the frame needs replaced and I want to know my best options. From this old post, TDK, Matkins, AFW and DJ5 postal were mentioned. I want advice to what I should consider. My CJ7 is to be a driver and farm vehicle. If I were 30 years younger, I might consider the off road and rock climbing avenue. I will leave that to the younger people. I welcome thoughts as this project will be from the ground up. Thank you in advance. Jim

 

[Belizean]

Most talk about the TDK. You would go straight to the start with that ready to go.

 

[Starbrick Jim]

Most talk about the TDK. You would go straight to the start with that ready to go.

Thanks for your input. I ran across this site regarding Matkins which caused me to research more. (Link)-> Jeep frames, scrambler frames, shackles, Price List -< What are your thoughts to their story?

 

[Belizean]

Sounds pretty good.

 

[Longslyde]

I used a TDK on my build from scratch. Had them set it up for 1986 CJ specs and YJ springs. Had them add the hitch bumper right away too so I didn't have to make a hitch. Bolt kit was a nice add as well as bolt on shock mounts. TOP notch quality IMHO. Welds are perfect. I'd definitely use them again. I didn't have to modify a thing on the frame for the whole process.

 

[Tim_Coble]

Wow, that looks great! You're making me question my decision to repair my rust eaten frame.

 

[Longslyde]

They're made from A500 steel also, on top of being fully boxed and extra thick. I did a can of 3M Cavity Wax on each side to prevent rust. I have NO doubt this frame will handle the LS3 nicely!

 

[Starbrick Jim]

Thank you very much for your input. Your frame looks great and it appears that we both are starting from scratch. My 83 CJ7 needs a lot of work and I thought a solid frame should be my starting point to resuscitate it. A follow up question is about the YJ springs instead of the original springs. Why this route? Also, was your CJ7 always disc brakes or did you modify that too? I welcome your additional thoughts that might help me with this older man's project. Again, thank you.

 

[Longslyde]

Feel free to message me if you run into issues since you're basically doing the same thing I am, as it looks. YJ springs are for the better ride, they are just a bit longer than CJ springs and allow more cushion. I had TDK weld the shackle mounts in the approriate spots. Springs bolted right in. A lot of people will tell you to go reverse-shackle on the front for a better ride, but I did NOT do that. There are definite handling tradeoffs there. #1 being excessive front dive on hard braking. There are a few other issues, but that's a whole different topic.
The axles were built with all brand new items including the housing and tubes. Since I started with nothing there, I went with disc brakes all around. The rear axle is a Dana 60, which would be overkill for most, but I am putting 500+HP in front of it, so again, starting with nothing, it wasn't much more to go Dana 60 and chrome moly axles.
All I had was a tub and title when I took on this project, so YMMV on how far you want to take things. Good luck with the project!