Moderate Build Ideas - 1975 CJ-5

As I mentioned in my introduction, I am a Toyota guy that is looking to learn about Jeeps so that I can help out a friend. He is looking to purchase a 1975 CJ-5, possibly this weekend.

The current Jeep has a 304 V8, manual transmission, Dana 20 transfer case, Dana 44 rear axle, lockrites front a rear and a mild lift.

The goal is 33x12.50 with suspension that provides reasonable flex. The problem is the 1-3/4" springs that limit lift options. I inquired with Alcan today for a quote.

The plan would be for a re-gear, selectable locker in the front, new lift (4"?), and low gears for the transfer case.

I am a fan of Rubicon Express, but they don't have 1-3/4" springs that I know of and I don't think my friend will be willing to do the conversion to the 2" and 2-1/2" springs.

Please give me some guidance and suggestions. The goal is a capable rig that can go hunting and on ocassion go crawling with me.

Specific brands/product recommendations would be appreciated.

Thanks!

 

Superlift makes a decent kit for that model 5.

 

BDS definitly makes bolt on springs for that rig. There aren't many that would disagree that BDS makes some of the best springs out of the box. Best warranty out there also.

 

X2 on BDS, that's what I'm running on my 5 and couldn't be happier

 

First, with the stock Dana 30 up front, 33" tires and a 304, he will break axle parts with any front locker unless he takes it easy. He would be fine just hunting, but not when he goes trailriding with you. If his personality is such that he likes the gas pedal, He will either dump the front locker or upgrade the front axle.

Second, is the leaf springs. Probably agree on the BDS.
Third, Plan on at least upgrading the front to disc brakes. just steal parts from a newer CJ.
Fourth, swap out the manual steering for a power steering box. Simple again, just find a 4-bolt saginaw out of a GM car. Just requires very minor cutting and filing to fit it to the lower steering shaft.
Nothing difficult. It'll be fun!!

 

This is all great information. He is planning to install power steering (I think it comes with the Jeep) and I'm thinking it has a Dana 44 in the front.

BDS seems to be the suspension choice so far. Any experience with Skyjacker? He has a Skyjacker lift on his Dodge full size truck and was happy so he may lean that direction.

My front springs are Superlift and they work well, but I had to dump the rear springs and upgrade to custom Alcan's to get a softer ride with some flex.

What function does the twin stick have on the Dana 20? My twin stick allows separation between low/high and 2wd/N/4wd, but I'm thinking a twin stick on a NP 205 allows fwd so they have different functions for different applications.

I am pushing for Swamper TSL Radials, what do you all think? It isn't going to be driven much on the road (short trips) and he likes Swamper Boggers, but they simply don't handle any street driving and have limited side stability.

 

What do you have and how much? I know two people in the CJ market.

 

I would go with a 3" Black Diamond lift kit, as it comes with shocks and runs $480 from 4 wheel parts. 4 wheel parts actually sells a LOT more parts than they list on their website for the '72-'75 CJ's. If you're ever looking for more parts I'd suggest getting a copy of their Jeep parts catalog or calling.

 

Dana 20 twin-stick will allow you to control each axle independently. (if you remove the detent pills from the t-case) So each axle can be in either low, neutral or high independent of the other one. Gotta be careful with this as it can cause severe drivetrain damage if you shift one axle into low while the other is in high at speed.

 

I've got Super swamper TSL Radials on another Jeep and hate 'em. They have no traction on wet surfaces. Go through one mud puddle and you're sliding on the next hillclimb until they dry off. Fine on dry rock.

 

That doesn't sound like a good Washington tire. Any suggestions?

He is a BFG fan and I am thining about a set of Toyo Open Country M/Ts for my truck in the future.