To what level do I restore this Jeep?

Ok, time to make the big decision. To what level do I restore this Jeep? Do I go anal with it (like I usually do) or do I take it to a level where I can take it to the woods and not care. I will probably go in-between. If I go this far with it I might as well make it real nice. Any suggestions?

 

Truly bone stock Jeeps are increasingly rare. IMHO they should be treated like unique historical objects and preserved as such. Lots and lots of Jeeps are around that can be built and used in the woods or as drivers without eating up the ever fewer number of stock examples still around. But it is a very difficult temptation to resist, especially as Jeeps were born to be used! Good luck with your decision ......

 

I think I am more partial to the stock look. You really don't see stock ones anymore. I think I will even keep the stock steel wheels.

 

I have restored 3 jeeps in the last 5 years. I don't make em perfect, but I do try to get to looking like they did when they were new. I like to go with the original paint color, wheels and tires. Every thing is kept as stock as possible . But I don’t restore it point that I would be reluctant to using it off road on the trails.

 

Lets see if a picture shows up

 

Well it's really dependent upon a few factors: how much time you wish to invest in the project (6 mos? 1 yr? 2yr or more?), $$ you have available to throw at it ($200? $500? $1000 or more? What's your budget?), and space you have to work with (got a garage? Understanding wifey?). Also, what do you have in mind to DO with your CJ after it's "done"? (car shows? off-road? Mostly on-road?).

Get us the answers to those, if you have 'em, and let's go from there!
-Alan

 

I vote stock appearance with slightly improved 4 WD mods.

Maybe a locker...maybe a slight lift....definitely a bit more agressive tire.

 

trail sleepers are kewl. 8)

 

Trail Sleeper?

I like it. 8)

 

I had a very low mileage 5 w/ lots of original accessories. The body was rough, I didn't know better but I will have real world useable jeep for where I presently live. Like many I rushed into things and although I think I made most of the right decisions for the jeep I wanted I should have made the modifications to another jeep. My 62 CJ5 came from the original owner. It had a ripped original soft top, 4 way plow w/ paper tag still intact, 265LB bumper weight, complete front to real pto w/ pto cover, power-locked front and rear, helper coils in back, Stratton 3 pt lift w/ grading bucket/implement lift, novi governor and under 5400 original miles. I took off all the accessories and sold them because it was just too slow. I the then sold the engine and the rest is history.
Take your time, make unemotional decisions but remember there are more jeeps out there than you think. Ask lots of questions and whether you turn it into a trail rider, daily driver, resto queen or anything in between be cognizant that unmolested early 5's are tough to find.

 

Money is good right now, the wife is understanding and it is in a garage. In terms of what I plan for it, joyriding, and moderate trail rides with my son. Mostly sand and water here in Florida, so no rocks to tear it up.

 

That's a great plan. For joyriding and moderate trail rides, I'd suggest leaving the body on and simply taking on one small project at a time. Projects can go on indefinitely, lol. Make that puppy ready to roll sooner than later, and enjoy your ride. Keep it here for any/all tech help. Good luck!
-Alan

 

The body has already been removed and I have a frame with the drivetrain sitting in the garage. POR 15 arrived today and I hope to have the frame ready soon. Tub coming from Texas and just a matter of re-assembly.