1972 - 1983 CJ5; what's the difference??

After completing a little research, I am looking to purchase a CJ5. I see that they were manufactured (AMC) from 1972-1983 and roughly 600 000 were produced. I can't seem to find any information via web sites (or other), that explains any of the differences between the years, i.e. body styles, engine, etc.

I would like to purchase a CJ5 and "fix" it up. I am trying to determine the difference between the years before I start narrowing down my purchase.

Any information is greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Owen

 

Post 75:
wider springs
longer wheel base?
Windshield angle is different
It also seems like there is a greater amount of "stuff" in the aftermarket.
Steering changes??
Roll bar is different.
Take a look at any catalog, 4wd hardware or Jeep Essentials and you will see the differences.

I love my 75, but I wish the aftermarket was better for it. I think in 76 they went to a Dana 20 rear end instead of the Dana 44.

Good Luck

High5
One more thing, hard tops are much easier to come by for the later model.

 

76' and later had stronger frame, wider springs, Amc 20 rear axle with two piece axles in additon to things listed above.

 

sorry sparky didn't scroll down enough.

 

I like most other lazy people I know didn't click on the link Sorry bout that
High5

 

Owen, welcome to the board from Cape Cod Mass.

There is a book out that will help you decide on your 5 purchase it’s called The Jeep Bible by Granvile King and another book with the same info Jeep Bible by Moses Ludel. You can buy the book just about anywhere or you can pick it up at your local library.

Good luck and keep us posted.

 

Well, the other major thing that is hard to come across is that the width of the windshield is different. It went from 59" to 55".

 

Thanks so much everyone for all of your input.... It definitely helps me with my decision.

-Owen

 

I got a question for you guys...

I have a 79 cj5 and my dad claims that it was THE last one off the assembly line with the v-8... I would like to confirm this if I can (using the VIN, maybe?). Anyone know if this would even be possible to prove/disprove? Currently it is almost totally all original and has 76k original miles, but I recently got it from my dad and was thinking about doing a little work to it, but don't want to mess it up if it is special (at least it sounds special when it is THE last one ever made with something on it)

Heh. Thanks guys

Brian

 

Since the CJ5's were made until 1983, I would have to assume they were still available with the V8 until then... Thus, the '79 can't be THE LAST CJ5 with a V8.

Perhaps he meant the last CJ5 in 1979 to leave the factory with a V8?

I'm sure with the VIN and a little research, you could find out if it was the last one in 1979. AMC kept records of all the VIN's assigned each year, along with the first and last numbers used that year. This is available on the 'net somewhere, as I've seen it before. Sorry - I don't have a link.

 

Thats the thing. I want confirmation. According to the following site:

http://amcrc.com/tech/carsn.html

The last V8 was in 1979.

7- Engine Codes (AMC)
H - 304 2bbl, 1970-79

Am I missing something?!?

I need to write the VIN down (will do that tonight).
Thanks!

Brian

 

i hate to say this but guys look in the newest JP. they have a CJ5 spotters guide.

 

Sparky, thanks for that! Just one more piece of the puzzle solved.

mb8265753, what is this JP you are referring to?

Thanks,
Brian