CJ Frame Troubles

Hey guys-

I am in a strange situation I bought a 1983 CJ to restore well after I dug into it I realized that I am going to need a new tub and the frame has several PO repairs and cracks I couldn’t see when I bought it for $300.

So what I have is a set of CJ widetrac axles, a good running 258 and a t4 transmission with a dana 300 transfer case, I also have good seats, gauges, hood grille and fenders.

Now as I understand it a 72-75 "intermediate" CJ-5 uses the same grill my CJ-7 used, and should accept the 258 inline six....

So upon my consideration of building a CJ-7 frame a straight rail CJ-5 looks much easier to build....couldnt I just build a straight rail 72-75 CJ-5 frame and use my front end and other compnents and buy a new CJ5 body tub?

What do you guys think about this?

Also any links, pictures or threads on frame building would be of great help thanks.

Josh

 

That would work. You would need to relocate the spring pads on the rear axle, the grill will interchange but there are some minor differences like marker lights. The long fender's ('72 and newer) will interchange no problem as will the hood. The interior is vastly different. Different floor pans, dash (can interchange with earlier), different heater, seat brackets, windshield, steering column, pedals, etc. etc. This is do-able, but will be some work and may take some adapting. For what you paid for it sounds like a good deal even with bad tub and frame. Around here the Dana 300 is worth what you paid for the whole Jeep. Nickmil