Got the hardtop and wheels on

Got everything swapped over from the 1960 M38A1 to the 1969 CJ5. I like the hardtop so much better than the softtop. It has roll-down windows, better visibility, it's lockable, easier access to the back and it's quieter already even though I still need to weatherstrip. I like the looks of the 2-piece windshield and the visibility is reduced only slightly compared to the one-piece. For anyone thinking of doing this swap, everything fit really well. I had to locate and drill the holes to mount the lower door hinges, but the windshield bolted to existing holes. Can't afford to sandblast it right now, so I will do handwork and paint it Rustoleum white enamel. My neighbor says, "leave it how it is". He likes the "patina"...not sure my other neighbors agree though...

Combine this:



with this:



add 8" Ford reverse wheels w/35's...and get this:




Next mod--swap full fenders from M38A1 to replace the chopped off 69 fenders.

 

Looks good. You might have to lift it a tad bit once you get the full fenders. It looks like the front part of the fenders might come in contact with the tires when you go over bumps.

Joel

 

I like the look of the smaller tires, but that's just me I guess.

 

i like the cut fenders they could use some tube around the front for a nice finish.

 

Well ok then!

Maybe in Las Vegas, but around here bare metal isn't a good idea. I'd paint it. Assuming you have air, get a Harbor Freight spray gun and do the Rustoleum thing. There have been threads on here about tractor paint - I expect those are a single stage urethane. Or buy some real paint from Kirker ... pretty cheap for the kit http://www.smartshoppersinc.com/Kirker/acrylic-enamels.html ... much much better than Rustoleum.

 

I personally like the smaller, narrower tires too, but these are what came on the Jeep when I bought it. They were mounted on black wagon wheels which I don't like so I picked these wheels up cheap. Had to put the other wheels & tires on another truck.The top will definitely get painted...thanks for the link Timgr

 

Tractor paint is not single stage urethane; far from it. Tractor or implement paint is the lowest form of enamel. Its a synthetic enamel that can have a hardener added to it, but is usually sprayed without. As soon as you use a hardener, you need to protect yourself by breathing through a fresh air system. In the higer archy of today's paint systems, synthetic enamel is at the bottom, followed by acrylic enamel, single stage urethane, polyurethanes and then BC/CC. BC/CC is usually considered the best. However, a solid color done correctly in a true Urethane or Poly is comparable to BC/CC in durability.

 

I have the same hard top think it is a great thing to have. Come Summer pull it off run without. Due to harsh winter (85F+) here in So Cal I been running with no doors.