Need some suggestions on body parts

I just purchased a 74 cj5 (hence the name). The motor runs great (304 V8), smooth tranny, and overall in good shape for the age. I am going to finish returning it to original as best as I can (my mudbuggy is a 95 wrangler, so I am going old school on this one). I do have some concerns with fiberglass, some bondo, etc. As time permits, I am going to slowly remove the fenders and other parts for repairs, priming, painting, etc. I do want to replace the parts as needed with metal versus fiberglass or plastic. Where would be a good place to start? Thanks for any suggestions and help! :

 

I don't know where a good starting point is, as I am just buying my first (1976), but congrats and good luck!!

 

Welcome!!

 

If you want to replace metal, I highly recommend http://www.classicent.com/. I replace my floor pans, wheel wells, and rear floor with their products and it worked out great. Oh yeah, welcome.

 

Welcome from Arizona!!

I'd post this question again under Intermediate tech. You might get more suggestions.

Having an old lady that is under construction as I am typing ths, I can tell you that aftermarket cj body parts do absolutely NO justice to the originals. The metal is like HALF as thik. I would first start by checking out the grave yards for usable parts. These can be refinished to look brand new, and you might actually have a fender that won't crunch w/in sight of a rock.

Second, if that doesn't work, I might replace the hood, fenders, grille if I HAD to, but I would always spend the money and repair the tub. Again, the difference in the metal is amazing.

Personally, I'm not a fan of the fiberglass, but many others are. If rust is a major issue, then it is definately something to consider.

Best of luck and keep us posted!!

P.S.
Got any pics??

 

Welcome from NM!

I'm taking all my body off, putting it into my garage, welding my patches, sanding the million coats of paint off and then prime/paint in my driveway. I'm 15 almost 16 too and already have it stripped, so I'm sure you could do the same. IMHO, I'd go repaint/ grave yard/patch/original condition/ leave off instead of fiberglass, depending on condition. Patching's a pain but I wont replace a 2A body at all.
Good luck and this is the place for Q's!