Newbie Jeeper needs some advice

[Blah]

Hey everyone!

I've been lurking here for quite a while, but have never really posted (Mostly because I don't have a jeep).  Anyway, I've got a line on a CJ5 and I'm going to go look at it.  I'm not sure what I should be looking for though - are there trouble spots on the older jeeps that I should be aware of when looking?

While i'm not a mechanic, I think I can tackle most fixes - I might need some help with drivetrain work, but I think I can handle the rest.

What should I be looking for or staying away from when considering this thing?

Thanks!

B

[yjpaul]

key things to look at when buying a used jeep:

-radiator cap
-and everything else.

But in all seriousness, what year of cj?

[yjpaul]

key things to look at when buying a used jeep:

-radiator cap
-and everything else.

But in all seriousness, what year of cj?

[apex]

if you want to buy built, check out this Allen Jr's CJ. It's a damn good rig.
http://calgaryjeep.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=7307

[Bnine]

Hey everyone!

I've been lurking here for quite a while, but have never really posted (Mostly because I don't have a jeep).  Anyway, I've got a line on a CJ5 and I'm going to go look at it.  I'm not sure what I should be looking for though - are there trouble spots on the older jeeps that I should be aware of when looking?

While i'm not a mechanic, I think I can tackle most fixes - I might need some help with drivetrain work, but I think I can handle the rest.

What should I be looking for or staying away from when considering this thing?

Thanks!
B

Look for frame integrity, rust, cracks etc etc

Look for major rust, holes, or rotted out mounts on the body

Look at the general condition of the wiring, and check for weird gremlins (horn honking when you step on the brake type stuff)

If that stuff checks out then you have a good base to start from. Most important is the frame and body, since even the wiring wouldnt be that bad to overhaul.

Little stuff to look for,

Motor blow by
Motor smoke
Pinion leaks
Drivetrain vibes
Pinion bearings
Output shafts
Brakes
Charging system
exhaust leaks

etc etc etc

In the end you'll basically be getting what you pay for. You just want to make sure you dont pay good money for a wreck.

Welcome, and good luck with the search

[henry]

Also look for what has been changed on the Jeep, such as body lift, suspension lift and steering upgrades etc.  If something aftermarket looks like it was installed sketchy, the rest of the Jeep probably is too.  Also, get the various receipts for work done on the Jeep by previous owner, that could play a major part in what you pay.  

Good luck, and have fun.  If you plan on wheeling your new Jeep, the best investment you can get is a winch, and another vehicle to drive while you repair your jeep.  Because you will be repairing your Jeep, no matter how good it is when you buy it.

DH

[TJ54]

and another vehicle to drive while you repair your jeep.  Because you will be repairing your Jeep, no matter how good it is when you buy it.

DH

I'll second that.

Just Empty Every Pocket,

 again and again and again :cry:

 :lol:  :lol:

[Blah]

Thanks to everyone who responded.... I now go to examine said jeep armed with a little bit of knowledge.  I know that anything that old (it's an 80 CJ5) is going to need some work - I just don't want to get hosed on the deal.

Prelim talks with the owner, it sounds like he did a lift added 33s and put an AMC V8 in it.  I'm not too worried about the motor as I was planning a SB Chev conversion anyways.  I guess condition of the frame and body will be the final tell.

Thanks again!

B