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Is This Project Worth It-updated

739 views 10 replies 6 participants last post by  New_Toyz  
#1 ·
It's a CJ5, about mid 70. Total basket case, boxes and boxes of parts, maybe even a few extras, but it is supposed to be all there. Stored in a garage by the original owner who tore it down and never got around to finishing the project. Then in a barn by the guy who thought he would put it back together but never got to it. (about 6-10 years total from what I know so far) Frame and body good, wiring harness is in one of the boxes somewhere, New engine still in the crate (probably a 258). I haven't seen it yet, (tomorrow hopefully) so there is a lot I don't know. If I put it all together, what might it be worth as a money project, or would it be a keeper? The price is about $900 at first asking. I know a fool and his money are soon parted, so who is the fool here? TIA

Looked at the jeep on Saturday and it is a 73. It has a new engine (still crated), new carb, new dist, new alternator, rebuilt trans & clutch. the body is in pretty fair cond, grill has been sandblasted, hood and fenders look great. the frame looks ok with just 2-3 inches cut off the front, but no serious rust. front axle has lockers. gm steering column w/tilt. Bottom line is - from what I can tell all the important stuff is there, but a guess would say another 1-2K with tires & paint to get it in driving condition. We still have a lot of work to finish our two 3a's and even though it seems like a good deal, only so many projects will fit in our driveway. If anyone is interested I would be happy to pass on the contact.

Brent & Sons
49-CJ3A, 51-CJ3A
 
G
#2 ·
Re: Is This Project Worth It

It's hard to say. I would'nt plan on this being cheap or easy. These basket cases can become a huge headache when trying to put them together because there are almost always many small (but key) parts missing, such as mounts, etc. If you have the time and patience and everything looks good, then go for it. Also, keep in mind that pre '76 frames aren't fully boxed. Good luck!
 
#3 ·
Re: Is This Project Worth It

The big problem is....What's missing? If you can figure that out you're better off. I personally would want it to be 1976 or newer, because I think parts are easier to get. That's the year they moved the wiper motor inside and leaned the windshield back a few degrees. (Not for gas mileage). I think the front fenders and hood were lengthened then too.

Ever had a Jeep apart? Do you have access to one for "show and tell" how to put this one together? This would be interesting...........

Loose nut behind the wheel
Another right-wing conservative.....
Born and raised in Jeep-Town
 
#4 ·
Re: Is This Project Worth It

ummm... see if the big pieces are there.. hell take 500 bucks and take it home.. if you cant finish it.. or deem it not worth while.. you can still sell the parts on ebay.. those idiots are paying way to much for jeep stuff.. well hell were are you at.. oh.. utah.. mmmm.. dang.. i would take. i still have alittle room left in my storage unit for some spare parts.. did i hear 258 and crate in the same sentence? that is worth 500 bucks.. take it... take it..
take it.. or i might have to make a road trip..

survival is instinct, but living takes guts
 
#5 ·
Re: Is This Project Worth It

I concur with previous posts...probably would turn into an expensive project...best if you had another Jeep to look at to help along the way...if the big parts are there, definately worth a few hundred to part out...

/wwwthreads_images/icons/cool.gif
JK
O|||O
78CJ5 258
 
G
#6 ·
Re: Is This Project Worth It

I bought a basket case like that and think it was a good purchase. Just about the same as what you have said except it had a seized engine but the trade off was a new 4wd fiberglass body. I paid $1200 and completed it for around $3000. Just a point of reference for you.
 
G
#7 ·
Re: Is This Project Worth It

I got ya'll beat. I bought my 79 CJ-7 for $250.00, kept what I needed, junked or sold everything else. It's paid for itself already. I honestly don't think it's worth $900 for something in boxes w/ a seized engine, but that's your call, how much more are you going to have to put into it, and or what do you want to turn it into? If you do get it, good luck and have fun /wwwthreads_images/icons/cool.gif

Steve
/wwwthreads_images/icons/crazy.gifJust Empty Every Pocket/wwwthreads_images/icons/crazy.gif
 
#8 ·
Re: Is This Project Worth It

I would not have no problem with it, if everything there. I know some people going talk the price down but with a new motor its not really a bad deal. beside when you get it done you be a hell of a mechanic. Think of it has a $900 learning tool. I would do it in a heartbeat. you cannot buy a piece of sh$% here for less than $2000.

brownbagg
 
G
#9 ·
Re: Is This Project Worth It

I agree with all the other posts....BUT

The Dana 44 that is probably in that package is worth it. It should be a 30 spline which is very good. The new motor? Sound good to me. Go for it...
though you will need time and much patience. Won't cost as much if ya really go out of the way to locate the parts from the right sources..Yards..and us...folks...Good luck....
 
#10 ·
Re: Is This Project Worth It

Are you building this yourself or are you building it with your sons? By yourself it would be a large undertaking but with your sons it might be an awesome investment. Think of the quality time and sense of accomplishment when you're done, and the look on their faces when the engine fires. It'd be priceless. With the motor in the crate I'd say give it a try, if things don't work out you can always part it out. If you also have the time, tools, and place to work on it long term. People are right, some of the parts are probably missing, so you'll probably have to set up a repor with the local parts supply houses. I'd give it a shot. Also think of it this way, you're saving a piece of American History from the scrap heap. I smile every time I look at my Scrambler because I know that without me it'd have been crushed long ago. Just a few thoughts to ponder.

JEEPN
'81 CJ-8 Scrambled!
GM151/SM465/NP205/7" Lift/33" Swampers/D44's F&R 4.10's & Lockrights
 
#11 ·
Re: Is This Project Worth It

All of our projects have been joint. Even though I enjoy doing my own wrenching, I'm trying to teach them something and have some fun too. Maybe I'm a mean Dad, but the kids have to buy their own cars and take care of them too. I'll help with advice and demo, but they have to do it

Brent & Sons
49-CJ3A, 51-CJ3A