First Jeep

I got a stock '74 cj 5 beater as a daily driver around post. It runs and drives, but has some issues. Thanks to this forum, I think i have the tail/brake light solution, though i haven't been able to test it yet. Here's a quick rundown.
1. Tub- ugly.. bad patch job in the floor boards, needs more repair and most repairs are just bondo over the hole (no sanding), rattle can paint.
2. Electrical- PO ripped out the rats nest behind the dash, and home wired just enough to start (push button w/kill switch), lights (hi/low, LR tail/RR brake). There are no fuses/fuse boxes anywhere.
3. When i use the clutch, it seems like it lifts up the tub. My leg is smoked just driving it around the block.
4. The guy the PO bought it from rattle can rhino lined the engine compartment/floor pan w/o removing anything. So dirt, voltage regulators,wires etc. are all covered.
5. Steering- at about 40mph, i get bad front end shake. Theres an aftermarket steering wheel, the PO says it needs a spacer. When you pull on the wheel it moves about an inch.

I'm picking up a tub/roll bar this weekend.
My Immediate concern is what should i expect time wise for the swap, and anything i should do while its off?
Aside from removing the master cylinder voltage regulator from the firewall/fender, and some items from the tub to reduce weight, what else do i need to do to remove the tub? aside from removing the pedals and dash/wiring. Is there a sticky or thread that details this process?
I have some mechanical ability, but i am electrically stoopid. I can read a wiring schematic, but if things are missing i get lost in the sauce.

If anybody is in the ft. benning, ga area and can/wants to help i have
Thanks

 

After you have the tub and stuff off, it's a good time to check the frame (for cracks) the suspension and front end (steering) system. Spring bushings and brake system, motor and trans mounts and drive line system.

 

You can use color zip ties on the wires to match back up when you go to put back together. (old trick on tractors when cutting in half)

 

Time wise, a weekend, a week, a month, a year and so on. All depends on how many (might as well while i am here) things you end up doing. Above all, have fun and enjoy your Jeep.

 

I'd recommend taking lots of detailed pics of how things mount. These are pretty simple vehicles but trying to remember which way this return spring mounted or how that support bolted can be difficult and frustrating. Lots of zip ties as mentioned, but also zip lock bags and a sharpie pen to label where bolts go is a must do as well.

 

thanks for the tips. never thought about colored zip ties. will i have to remove the radiator to get the grille off? mite have to look that one up in the hayes manual or check the threads here.

 

You can leave the radiator in just unplug the headlight wiring