CJ5 vs CJ7

The 5 has a shorter wheel base and it's a narrow trac axles I believe. And, don't some CJ7s have narrow trac to a certian year?

There are some things which made me happy I bought a later year CJ. Right now I can't think of any but if I were to buy another CJ I would want the latest year made (86).

You might want to find out about:

1. oil pressure (make sure the gauge is working)
2. compression check

To make sure the engine is ok.

Of course, ask about miles and what kind of engine.

My 2 cents.

Bill

The post '76 CJ5 is basically the same as the CJ7 but with a shorter wheelbase. Issues with them depend upon the year. Pre-76 is a whole other matter.

Thanks Bill O. and Bill H.

The least of my worries is the engine. If it is toast, I'll drop in a small block Chev or the 4.0 stroker. I have some pretty neat ideas for the stroker if it works out that way. I drove by this guy's house today and didn't see a Jeep anywhere, unless it was in the garage or at another location. Because I live in an area where you can hear a vehicle rust on a quiet night, I'm more worried about frame integrity and body rot. I'd love to find a driveable Jeep for a price like that, but I don't mind working on it either. I have this funny feeling this is going to be a big project, but I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Chris

Krap, I didn't even look at who the OP was. Now I feel stupid giving you engine advice. :-)

Bill

LOL, not to worry. You have enough to think about right now. You got your Jeep goin' again!

Chris

Damn thing is sold already. I guess the search continues. :-/

Chris

If you want a CJ, my suggestion would be a later model CJ-7. Just my personal preference.

Before you go jeep shopping again, get a copy of Moses Ludel's "Jeep Owner's Bible." It explains the differences between the various models and model years, and what you should look for and look out for in a used jeep.

Whatever you do, don't fall in love with a jeep and put down your cash before you get an education on jeeps and get the one you are interested in inspected by a competent jeep shop. Thre are a lot of crappy jeeps out there that look good, and some jewels that don't.

Robert Bills KG6LMV Orange County CA

Thanks for the tips Robert. I don't know any details on this particular Jeep. It may have been a basket case, but it sold the day after the ad hit the paper and it was close to home (about 5 minutes away). I would have liked to at least look at it. I guess I should get the book you mentioned. I have been eyeing it up, and figured I would get it after I got a Jeep, but now that you mention it, I would be better to get it now. I think for me to buy a CJ5, it would have to be a pretty good deal though, as the shorter wheelbase was a con. I'm not going to rush out and buy the first one I can get my hands on, but around here even seeing a CJ/Wrangler for sale is grounds for excitement. I will keep patiently looking, or I will make an excuse to go on a vacation somewhere and find one that way, LOL.

Chris