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Buying a Used CJ or Wrangler

63 messages,  Last post on Dec 09, 2011 at 7:33 AM

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What is this discussion about? Jeep Wrangler, Jeep CJ-7, SUV

Messages Page 1 of 7

#1 of 63 Buying a Used CJ or Wrangler by awidenhouse

Jul 05, 2007 (4:49 pm)

I am planning on buying a used CJ or Wrangler as a Play Toy. I am looking now at a Wranger 92' 9" of lift 33/12.5 tires and 4.0 motor. I am also looking at several early 80 CJ-7's. Is there anything I should know about these Jeeps before buying one?

#2 of 63 Re: Buying a Used CJ or Wrangler [awidenhouse] by tidester

Jul 05, 2007 (4:52 pm)

Replying to: awidenhouse (Jul 05, 2007 4:49 pm)
I think you're more likely to get the feedback you want in the general Jeep Wrangler discussion or one of the other existing topics in the Jeep Wrangler group.
 
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper

#3 of 63 Re: Buying a Used CJ or Wrangler [awidenhouse] by erickpl

Jul 06, 2007 (8:03 am)

Replying to: awidenhouse (Jul 05, 2007 4:49 pm)
9" of lift for a 33" tire??? That has to look rather goofy.
 
I know of a 1982 CJ7 for sale near me for about $4k (not mine as I don't have one). The earlier CJ's will likely have rust issues so look over the body and systems carefully. They will likely be carburated as well, so if you plan on playing with the CJ offroad, steep angles will get interesting on occasion.
 
-Paul

#4 of 63 Re: Buying a Used CJ or Wrangler [awidenhouse] by mac24

Jul 06, 2007 (9:34 am)

Replying to: awidenhouse (Jul 05, 2007 4:49 pm)
Is there anything I should know about these Jeeps before buying one?
 
The first thing you need to know is that CJs, YJs, and TJs are very different vehicles that have a similar appearance.
 
If you want a reliable vehicle with readily available parts, get a TJ. If you want a hobby vehicle you might consider a CJ.

#5 of 63 Re: Buying a Used CJ or Wrangler [mac24] by awidenhouse

Jul 06, 2007 (2:54 pm)

Replying to: mac24 (Jul 06, 2007 9:34 am)
Are there issues with the Jeep V8 "304" or is if safer to get a slightly newer one with the 4.0L? Is there anything to look for when looking at a used Jeep, like Rust is the first thing. What about the Mileage? Is jeep known for having a certain problem or problems to for a first time owner to be aware of or to be looking for?

#6 of 63 Re: Buying a Used CJ or Wrangler [awidenhouse] by mac24

Jul 07, 2007 (7:09 am)

Replying to: awidenhouse (Jul 06, 2007 2:54 pm)
I'd prefer the 4.0/4.2 to the V8. Similar output, less complex, longer life.
 
CJ/Wranglers use a seperate body and chassis, so chassis rust is more critical than body rust, though neither is good. TJs are the least likely to have serious rust issues.
 
A well maintained Wrangler with a 4.0 should see 150-250k miles without major problems. However, the older the vehicle the more 'interesting' its history is likely to have been. Same applies to a vehicle that has been modified by some of its previous owners.
 
If you want a hobby, pick whatever catches your fancy. If you want a reliable ride, pick a late, unmodified, properly maintained, street queen.

#7 of 63 The Test Drive by awidenhouse

Jul 07, 2007 (5:17 pm)

I drove a TJ today. It has 9" of lift, 35/12.50 new tires, detroit lockers front and rear, yukon axles and gears, dual stearing stablizer. The Stablizer has been removed because of the lift. When you step on the gas it pulls to the left and when you get off the gas it pulls to the right. Can this problem be corrected and how?

#8 of 63 Re: The Test Drive [awidenhouse] by mac24

Jul 07, 2007 (5:27 pm)

Replying to: awidenhouse (Jul 07, 2007 5:17 pm)
That's an easy one........remove the nine inches of lift.
 
Seriously, nine inches? Good grief!!!
 
Also, I don't understand about the stabilizer having been removed, but that it has dual stabilizers?
 
The pull to the left come from the torque of the engine twisting the suspension when you step on the gas. The only possible use for such an extreme suspension modification is for use offroad, or for a show vehicle.

#9 of 63 CJ-7 by floko

Jul 10, 2007 (12:43 am)

The CJ-7 is cult, but you should be aware that most of the CJs are in bad shape. Many owners restorate their Jeep with cheap aftermarket parts and an individual style. You won't find much CJs in original style.
 
But if you find a good one ... buy it and never give him away.

#10 of 63 Buying salvage jeep, looking for cheap parts..... by silvertiger

Jul 25, 2007 (9:27 pm)

Replying to: floko (Jul 10, 2007 12:43 am)
I have the opportunity to buy a 2006 JEEP Wrangler X with only 3,500 miles. The catch -- it has a salvage title. It would need two full hard doors, hood, fender flares and a possible roll bar. The price would be between $7000.00 - $7500.00. Would this be worth it and besides eBay and local junk/salvage yards where do I find GOOD cheap parts? Thanks a million.....

Messages Page 1 of 7

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