newbie, need 74 cj5 build advice

[gmans4x4]

I currently have a 1974 CJ5 i picked up off craigslist. i just bought a 2.5" pro comp lift kit. the old springs were in bad shape(broken and bent). the shock mounts bad too. especially the rear. Should i relocate the mounts in any way while im doing this. and i should be able to mak my own, right. i have to get the frame straightened, too (twisted on front passenger from front tub mount forward). then the next phase is frame prep. do i strip it down or clean and use a rust encapsulater/convertor. I want the frame to last as long as possible.

By the way, you guys have been awesome. thanks

 

[CJ]

:ww: Sorry I missed this post gmans4x4. Are you talking about the mounts on the frame or the leaf springs (the lower spring plate)? If you are talking about the plate, they can be purchased at many retailers.

I use and encapulator, great product! There are many brands to choose from, I like Eastwood.

 

[gert]

Well I also use the encapsulator I prefer POR 15 and if you are talking about your top shock mounts then I would move them to be able to stuff the longest shock possible under your Jeep so your shock does not act as a travel limiter.

 

[blaylock6502]

Hey gmans4x4. Not too long ago I was in the same boat you were so I thought I would pass along some info I have found because I have been doing alot of research, take it for what you will. After reading alot about encapsulators I decided to go with por 15. It went on easily and looks amazing and if it holds up like they say It should outlast me (being 27 thats a long time i hope) I also had the rear upper shock mounts rusted out as you do as well. I looked everywhere and could not find a complete mount. I ended up buying the shock mount pins from jc whitney and mad a bracket from eighth inch flat stock and welded the pin to it. alot of these guys know alot more about performance than I do because im really not concerned with it and i dont know what your after but i am just looking for a backroader if you know what i mean. I just finished the frame prep have all my body parts ready just need a wiring harness and its back together but my wife is 36 weeks pregnant so that may be a while. I also wanted to tell you that My cj is also a 74 and parts are not easy to find but there are alot of sharp guys on here and you can find or make anything! good luck!

 

[blaylock6502]

Hey i forgot one more quick thought I , like you , wanted the frame to last as long as possible and found a cool product on eastwood.com that i used along with the por 15 and it is an encapsulator that comes in aerosol and comes with a hose so you can get to the boxed parts of the frame. Does your cj have power steering? My pump was cobbled on and if anyone has pics of a properly mounted pump they would be greatly appreciated!

 

[gmans4x4]

i am sure i joined the right forum! you guys are great. i am so anxious to get the thing built! thank you. sorry i took a little while to get back. my cj doesn't have pwr steering. i will try and start geting some pics and info to post. til next time
do u guys know anyone in the middle tennessee area? thx