[Guest]

Hi all,

In the past I had several Jeeps (CJ3, CJ6, TJ) but have been out of the Jeep fold for a while. I ran across a 71 Commando in my neck of the woods that seem to be in rather fine shape.

I drove it and two things really struck me as strange:
1. I sit way too close to the steering wheel, it seems like I will have to move the seat back if I decide to buy it.
2. The vehicle feels very slow and gutless - is this a normal thing with the V6 or is it just an issue with this perticular example.

The truck seems to be close to original condition, it has a hard top. The only things that I am certain are not original are the steering wheel and the radio.

I am thinking of getting it, but would like to have an experienced mechanic look at it and maybe help with some of the projects I might subject it to. Can anyone recommend old Jeep resources in Portland, OR - specifically in the West side if possible (Beaverton, Hillsboro etc...).

Thanks,
Ron.

 

[GRQster]

Try Ryan he's in Portland

 

[1078]

The 225 V6 isn't really "gutless" and is usually considered well suited to the jeepster. There may be a problem with that one or it may be what you are used to driving is more powerful. Today's cars, an average, are much faster than they were in the muscle car era. Did you know that a V6 2004 Accord could smoke an SS 350 Nova, as it runs 14.80's in the quarter? Just one example.

The seat sits way to close to the wheel. You are right in that observation. It actually helped when you were off-road with "arm-strong" steering. You can move the seat back, mount a smaller diameter wheel, or swap in a later CJ tilt column..or any combo of the above.

Rust is the main issue with jeepsters. Rockers, tailgate, & rear floor pan were water drips from an improperly sealing hatch, are some of the biggees. If you have one that is in good shape there, you are doing well.

'71 was a good year in that they used modern saginaw steering, a flanged d44 rear, and some other goodies. The wiring is suspect though.

 

[090]

Hippo Hardware? I wouldn't be suprised if Powell's has a tech manual.
I have some family in Hillsboro, but he does his own work, and saves the fun stuff for when i come up.

 

[2359]

Did some of the 70's come with the flanged D44 rear as well? I have a 70 partster and the PO said that it had a flanged D44 but I haven't checked it out yet.

 

[2147]

Welcome;
I jumped into this with a 72 commando about a year ago. Ryan the jeep guy on the east side of Portland has helped me out alot. He is really into the style Jeepster you have.
I'm over on the west side also, NW 185th Ave..
I think you will like this bunch everyone is helpful. I went up to Washington last summer for the NW Raid and had a ball, great people, that's something you should plan on it is a great way to get to know the guys and gals on this forum.
Fill out your profile so we can get to know you.

 

[1078]

ALL of the 70's may have had flanged d44's, as far as I know. I do know that yours isn't the only one with one.Guys??

 

[2392]

My buddies 70 Jeepster 44 is flanged.

 

[1450]

Ryan the jeep guy is a great resource for us here in the NW...!!...

 

[1022]

that is one of the best years if you decide on that one i'm here in se portland and will be happy to help any of your questions i can . i stock alot of parts for the jeepster and have alot of conections if it is something i cant help you with .

thanks Ryan www.THE-JEEP-GUY.COM

 

[2147]

Hey Ron;
where did ya go, tell us more, how is the body on your 71. We are getting enough rigs in this area we may have to start our own chapter.

 

[Guest]

Sorry folks, I did not buy the rig yet. Schedule problems at work did not allow me to pursue it yet. I hope to be able to do it this weekend, if it is still available.

If not, I will just wait for another opportunity.

Ron.