Purchase advise!

Which to get a 1975 CJ-5 or a 1979 CJ-5?
One is basically restored and stock the other has one piece axles, a winch, highlift jack, but basically stock.

Which to get and why?

Thanks

 

Go for unit in best condition. Winches and jacks are mere trinkets and baubles that are of such relative low value vs having a solid tub and frame that I'd not give those add-ons the least consideration. Buy the Jeep that is as close to what you want for a finished product. A winch is what, $800? That's a set of tires. BFD. Winches are bought and sold every day. Frame condition, body condition, engine type and condition, and tranny type would be my main concern.

If the 75 has an in-line six it might be a 232, and it might have a T14 tranny. Not so hot about either of these. If it's a 258 with a T18 then you have something to work with. If it's a 304 with T15 that's pretty decent too, if you don't mind 3sp (I don't mind 3sp). If it's a 232 and/or a T14 it still might be a candidate but be aware that the 232 is a dog and the T14 isn't the toughest tranny option. I'm an intermediate guy so I don't know as much about the good/bad with 79 models.

 

Faced with a similar decision, I picked the pre 76 model. You get a center-output dana20, and a D44 rear. Your later model will have an AMC 20, which originally came with two piece axles. Is this the one that now has the one piece axles? With the older model you have to look a little harder for tops but it's not a huge issue, they are out there and worst case scenario, just swap out the windshield frame.... and if you can find the V8 with the T18 you've really got something...

 

The '75 is basically stock, looks to be restored, inline 6, 3 speed.
The '79 is basically stock. 258 inline 6, new one piece rear axles, winch, and jack.

That's about all I know for now.

I plan on a mild lift maybe 33's, lockers, basically a trail vehicle, but occasional tuffer stuff.
I'm just trying to figure out which would be the best one to start with, given availibility of parts,
and cost. I like junk yard scrounges like most guys but don't want to live there trying to locate
parts.

My buddy has a '69 v-6, 3 speed, and seems to have a hell of a time getting pieces and parts.

Thanks for the info so far. Oh any good sites for specific reading or mods on the '75 or '79.
I like this site but it seems tailored toward the older Jeeps, I told my buddy about this site.

 

junkyards notwithstanding, I don't think it's much harder to get parts for my 72 than a 75-83... I'm pretty sure the 75 will have a narrower track width for trails. And if it's in that great of shape I'd jump on it. My only hang up would be the three speed transmission. Do you mean 3 sp plus granny gear? (4sp) or just 3 speed? if the 79 has a 4spd that might convince me...

 

It also depends on your fab skills.

Bumpers, good bumpers can be hard to find for our 75 and older Jeeps. The aftermarket is dwindling even on the CJ7s.

We need pics.

High5

 

Re parts availability, it depends on what you need. I think that all of these Jeeps have plentiful supply of what I'd call "service parts" - engine parts, drivetrain bearings, brake parts, etc.

There are some things that are a little tougher, like the 10" brakes on a '60s CJ. Some things there are simply no aftermarket sources for. Of all the CJ-5s, it seems to me that the '72-75 "intermediate" Jeeps have the most of these. The earlier CJ Jeeps had a longer run ('55-71), and the later CJ Jeeps ('76-86) had a longer run and higher production numbers - in both cases making more parts available.

 

I agree with which ever one is in the best physical condition.

 

Buy Both. You can't have too many Jeeps.

Seriously, I'd get the 79. Parts for 76+ Jeeps seem to be more avaliable. The frame on the 76+'s are a littel stonger (IIRC). But that's all being equal. But as was stated above, I'd buy the one in the best shape. Strong, rust free frames are more important than the other stuff. Tubs in good shape are very important.

Best comdition.

 

Check the physical status, crawl under them and look at the frames, body mounts, axles and running gear.
Test drive them. Does all the mechanical stuff work?

 

Personally, I like the idea of the '79 for parts, but check with a mechanic and see what kind of job was done on the replacement rear axle. The 3 spd is no worries with a V8, but never driven it with a 6. If your area requires emission equipment, then it doesn't matter b/c you'll get the same power out of both. Also remember, BODY work is WAY more expensive than ENGINE work.

Walk around the vehicle with a magnet...make sure she wasn't rolled or someone else's rust bucket that they bondo'd to sell. Why is the person selling it?

Finally, post some pics.....the guys on this site rock and can tell right away which Jeep is in better shape....

Good luck!!