What did I get myself into?

Jeremy Martin · May 30, 2013

I found a great deal on a CJ7 and pounced on it. I am not new to wrenching, but I am new to Jeeps. From what I can see after owning it for less than two hours it needs a new gas tank, valve cover gasket, battery, and a back seat. I have included a link to pictures for your viewing pleasure. The front and rear are not level, I am thinking the rear springs are sagging. I found a tank on JC Whitney for $78 bucks, has anyone used them or have any suggestions? Thoughts?

Coach · May 31, 2013

Looks like you got a good starter. Didn't appear to have much rust from the photos. You have the twisty shackles (don't know what they are really called), but they are supposed to be flexy.

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Jeremy Martin · May 31, 2013

Thanks coach. The rockers have the typical rust that I've seen but it's covered in a think coat of paint and I think some filler as well. Not too sure what I'll find when I go digging around down there.

Scooter402 · May 31, 2013

Clicky free! :chug:

Now, I've never used the JC Whitney gas tank, but I have used other parts of theirs on a YJ that I had...all seemed to be well with them then. If you do happen to get it, post up your results. I'm in need of a new fuel tank, too.

Definitely a great looking Jeep you've got there!

Also, it's good to see some clear skies around that area. My mom lives south of you (in Norman) and I get a little nervous when they keep talking about bad storms coming in. God be with all those poor folks in Moore and surrounding areas...

csuengr · May 31, 2013

Your rear springs aren't sagging, they're bent. They should have a smooth arch from front to back. You have the wrong front spring plates. They are too wide for the springs you have. It looks like somebody put the old 1.5" wide leaf springs in front when you should have 2" wide springs.

Take those shackles and get rid of them as soon as possible. They are why the rear springs are bent and will make the Jeep handle like :dung:

on the street. Somebody watched "Extreme 4x4" and failed to realize Ian is an idiot.

I also love the grade 8 bolts holding the belly pan on. Talk about overkill.

Otherwise, nice looking Jeep. when you get the new tank, get a new lock ring and O-ring also.

Old Dog · May 31, 2013

Yes please get rid of the revolver shackles. IMO anyway.
Looks like a real nice cj you found.

Jeremy Martin · May 31, 2013

csuengr said:
Your rear springs aren't sagging, they're bent. They should have a smooth arch from front to back. You have the wrong front spring plates. They are too wide for the springs you have. It looks like somebody put the old 1.5" wide leaf springs in front when you should have 2" wide springs.

Take those shackles and get rid of them as soon as possible. They are why the rear springs are bent and will make the Jeep handle like on the street. Somebody watched "Extreme 4x4" and failed to realize Ian is an idiot.

I also love the grade 8 bolts holding the belly pan on. Talk about overkill.

Otherwise, nice looking Jeep. when you get the new tank, get a new lock ring and O-ring also.

I got a stainless tank and new sending unit from a local 4x4 shop. I like to support the local guy as much as I can. It did cost me an extra $30 but I was able to just pick it up and not wait on shipping.
I thought those shackles were a little shady looking. Looks like I found my new item on the to do list. Remove the shackles and replace the springs.

Petescj · May 31, 2013

Revolver shackles should go in my opinion as well. :chug:

It'll end up spitting out your driveshafts , and if your lucky thats all

Old Dog · May 31, 2013

Jeremy Martin said:
I got a stainless tank and new sending unit from a local 4x4 shop. I like to support the local guy as much as I can. It did cost me an extra $30 but I was able to just pick it up and not wait on shipping.

Does he make the stainless tank? tell me more :drool:

FiNorman · May 31, 2013

looks like the PO cut into the frame to bolt the shackle hangers, those can be welded back easily, and you are missing the bracket on your frame that holds the brake tube... which can be easily fabricated.
I guess it depends on how much you paid for it, but it's a good looking jeep.

Jeremy Martin · May 31, 2013

Old Dog said:
Does he make the stainless tank? tell me more :drool:

No, it is a mass produced tank from 4wheel parts.

Jeremy Martin · May 31, 2013

FiNorman said:
looks like the PO cut into the frame to bolt the shackle hangers, those can be welded back easily, and you are missing the bracket on your frame that holds the brake tube... which can be easily fabricated.
I guess it depends on how much you paid for it, but it's a good looking jeep.

I am still in shock about how much myself. $900.00 Yep, just $900.00.

FiNorman · May 31, 2013

Jeremy Martin said:
I am still in shock about how much myself. $900.00 Yep, just $900.00.

if it's as good as it looks from here, the tires, top and doors being sold would get you your money back and you would still have jeep to enjoy..... For $900 he must have had a bad night at the track and owed the mob a grand plus the vig.

Scooter402 · May 31, 2013

Jeremy Martin said:
I am still in shock about how much myself. $900.00 Yep, just $900.00.

Holy

... Really?! wanna sell it?

Jeremy Martin · Jun 7, 2013

Got the new tank, fuel filter, and lines in. Fires right up!
Went on a short around the block test drive and I get a pretty loud bang coming from the rear end. I live in a neighborhood full of cul-de-sacs and when I get back on the gas after making the 180 turn I hear the pop or bang. Now I am not sure if it has a locker in the rear or if I have another problem to track down. Thoughts?
Now on the the rest of the list. I still have two leaking wheel cylinders, a leaking power steering hose, a totally shot steering box, and a thermostat to change.

Torxhead · Jun 7, 2013

The old style Detroit Lockers were known for "Locker bang". If you jack up the two rear wheels they should rotate in the same direction, this would verify a locker. If not maybe pull the rear cover and check for busted teeth. Those low hanging u-bolts look like they could be used to plow a field, lol.

jdarg · Jun 7, 2013

Jeremy Martin said:
I am still in shock about how much myself. $900.00 Yep, just $900.00.

It needs some work, but that's insane. Good job!

danray48 · Jun 8, 2013

Nice Jeep. From what I can see, you stole it. :chug:

rr41mag · Jun 8, 2013

danray48 said:
Nice Jeep. From what I can see, you stole it.

You should be arrested!

Petescj · Jun 8, 2013

Thats the best $900 youve ever spent , trust me.

Jeremy Martin said:
I am still in shock about how much myself. $900.00 Yep, just $900.00.

What did I get myself into?

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