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Jeep CJ-7 - The Plan
The idea behind this project is to build a rig that
can easily handle most off-road situations and, on occasion, do a
little serious rock crawling and look good doing it. I don't
want a show Jeep, but I want something that will turn heads. I
don't want a full on rock crawler either. I want it capable, but
a pleasure to drive on the highway. Gotta look good and be comfy
on the way to the lakes and trails.
With those ideals in mind here are the highlights
of my plan:
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An AMC 258 I6 engine with upgraded intake and
exhaust, RV cam, etc. is my engine of choice. I'm looking
for between 200 and 250 horsepower and good low-end torque.
The small block Chevy V8 is nice but the 258 has more low-end torque and just
plain screams Jeep! What's more, there are lots of upgrade
and rebuild parts and they are good, simple and reliable overhead
valve engines. Update: I went
with a Chevy 350, mainly because the price was right.
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I will definitely upgrade the transmission,
probably to a AX-15 or maybe NV 4500. The stock T-4 tranny is pretty weak
and the NV4500 should be bulletproof in a Jeep and its a five
speed, but its pricey and the AX-15s are solid units. I will keep the D300 transfer case, its a
good unit. Update: I may use the
TH 350 that came with the small block.
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The axles are a tough one. I think the
D30 front will be OK, but just OK. The AMC 20 has some
weaknesses and may go. I will probably go with
Dana 44s or 60s, eventually. For now, unless I come into
money or I find they are messed up, I will probably stay with the
D30 and AMC 20 and do what I need to beef them up.
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I want the Jeep lifted with either 33" or
35" tires. I will probably use a some combination of
springs, shackles, shackle reversal and/or spring over axle conversation
to achieve the desired lift. I want a good balance between drivability
and suspension articulation.
Basically, I want a Jeep that is a pleasure to
drive, kicks ass off-road, looks good and is reliable as hell.
If its overbuilt then so be it. I have other specific ideas in
my head, but I need to get it mechanically sound before I go there.
Note: this will certainly change and grow, so check
back.
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