'73 CJ5 - The 2 week build

I originally posted up a build thread called: 'Building it from boxes' (http://earlycj5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=50795&highlight=kbazurpe) but plans changed somewhat so I though I would start a new thread.

This project started in December when I traded my YJ for a '73 CJ5 that was completely taken apart.



In March I purchased this '78 CJ5 for parts - good drivetrain w/ plow and ACME hardtop/doors, but a horrible body and frame






The build essentially started Aug. 2nd and I left home to move back to school on Aug. 20th - hence 'the 2 week build'.

Day 1 – took apart the ‘78







Day 2 – ’78 tub removed and cleaning parts





Day 3 and 4 – more dismantling, cleaning, sanding, and painting











My artwork



Day 5, 6 and 7 – front axle disk brake conversion, could have been much quicker but parts were siezed together













Day 8 - Brake and fuel line



Day 9 – Fiberglass tub on, checking fitment, drilling holes for frame mount locations





Day 10 – more body mounting, brake setup, and initial clutch setup





Day 11 -more misc. assembling



Day 12 and 13 – mostly sanding and painting misc. parts





Day 14 – went to visit grandparents

Day 15 – got back from grandparents, set in exhaust, mounted battery tray



Day 16 – exhaust complete, electrical completely hooked up (minus lights), and first drive – only 100 or so feet







Day 17 – cleanup, moved extra parts to an old barn for semi-long term storage



Day 18 – left to come back to school




Things to still be finished before being road worthy:

Front pads, calipers, and rotors
Bleed brake system
Completely mount body
Mount seats and seat belts
Fix gauges that do not work
Mount roll cage
Finish electrical wiring for lights
Longer rear driveshaft


Longer term:

Build full cage
Full paint job
Decide if I want to use 176/D300 combo I have
High back seats
Replace windshield with '76+ (so hardtop fits)

 

Wow, you sure work quick!

 

Sweet! I wish I had that kind of energy.

 

I am only home maybe two weeks a year so if I didn't work quick it would never get done. It could be brought to Purdue, but I don't have a good place to work on it or much extra time while at school.

Any opinions on using the 176/D300 combo over the stock tranny (3sp) and D20? The 4sp might be nice, but I don't know if it is worth the extra work/expense.

 

WoW!!! In your past life were you an auto ingineer, mech, designer (auto) ??? Good going.

 

The T176/Dana 300 combo(which I have in my '83) will give you a lower 1st gear(IIRC 3.52 VS 2.99) and the Dana 300 has a lower geared low range also. If you do go with the T176 set up order a couple of these shift lever repair kits http://www.quadratec.com/products/52112_50.htm (I'm not sure if supposed to put a link in like that or not). The stamped metal retainer(on the right in the picture) has 2 little "dogs" that engage on pins in the top cover. If you go slamming gears these will bend and brake and you won't be able to shift. The Dana 300 will also use a different skid plate as it is kicked down.