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74' Cj5 Cheap 4x4 Build

Discussion in 'Builds and Fabricators Forum' started by Andrew R., Aug 4, 2020.

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  1. Andrew R.

    Andrew R. New Member

    Hi All,

    Looking for insight on some mods for my stock 1974 CJ5.
    [​IMG]

    74 CJ5

    Specs:
    Engine AMC 232 I-6
    Transmission T-18
    Transfer case Dana 20
    Front Dana 30
    Rear Dana 30?

    The plan: Take stock CJ5 and create a budget 4x4 to crawl and mud.

    Already finished:
    • New gas tank
    • Add 31" M/T Tires
    • Rebuild front hubs
    • New taillights
    Looking for recommendations:
    • New carb
    • Electronic fuel pump
    • Move leaf springs on top of the axle
    • Replace shocks
    • Weld up spider gears for cheap locker
    • Brake conversion
    What would you do to your 70's cj5?

    Looking forward to a fun build, thanks for everyone's insight!
     
    Andrew R., Aug 4, 2020
    #1
  2. Boyink

    Boyink Super Moderator Staff Member

    Skip the springover. Causes more issues than a simple spring lift.

    Basically - ignore sites like Pirate 4x4. Get what you have working in stock form, then go have fun with it. The stock capabilities will surprise you. Or you can then upgrade based on experience rather than internet wanna-bes.
     
    Boyink, Aug 4, 2020
    #2
    truckee4x4 and fhoehle like this.
  3. nickmil

    nickmil In mothballs.

    What Boyink said. Make sure it is mechanically sound and safe then use it. Then make your decisions.

    If stock your Jeep should have a Dana 44 flanged axle rear that is plenty strong with reasonable size tires. You should have 11” drum brakes front and rear that are very effective if in good working condition. In fact lots of people put these brakes on their Early CJ’s and Flatfenders for better brakes. Disc brakes shine In Mud and water and have fewer moving parts but the drums work very well.
     
    nickmil, Aug 4, 2020
    #3
    Ol Fogie likes this.
  4. sterlclan

    sterlclan Member 2024 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Running steering stopping. Wheel it and upgrade as necessary a stock five will go places you wouldn’t expect.
     
    sterlclan, Aug 4, 2020
    #4
    truckee4x4 likes this.
  5. ITLKSEZ

    ITLKSEZ Hope for the best, prepare for the worst

    You can get a mini spool for about $60.
     
    ITLKSEZ, Aug 4, 2020
    #5
    73 cj5 likes this.
  6. 73 cj5

    73 cj5 Not ready for the junkyard yet

    That’s what I’m using.
     
    73 cj5, Aug 4, 2020
    #6
  7. Andrew R.

    Andrew R. New Member

    Awesome, I'll run through the brakes and tune up the carb and take it out.
    Thanks for the mini spool idea Ill check that out.

    Appreciate all the insight!
     
    Andrew R., Aug 4, 2020
    #7
  8. Ol Fogie

    Ol Fogie 74 cj5 304, 1943 mb

    Don't weld those spider gears, very dangerous.
    x2 on all the above post. all very good advice.
     
    Ol Fogie, Aug 4, 2020
    #8