Jeep

This ongoing project started in October of 2000. The idea behind this project is to build a well equipped CJ-7 from the frame up, paying attention to every system while being ever so mindful of the limited budget. Being on a limited budget helps force one to think of creative ways to re-design things and be resourceful. For my project most parts were acquired through some means of bartering or bargaining which included several trips to swap meets. Keep in mind as you read this project that this Jeep never started out as a whole Jeep. It wasn't a "frame off" restoration. It started as parts from all over and from many vehicles, some not even Jeep parts. The first part I bought was a Jeep tub, followed by a CJ-7 frame. From there I just kept finding and buying the parts I wanted to use. Many parts like the Centerforce II clutch and the T-18A rebuild kit as well as seats, Bestop softtop, 3 core radiator, engine parts for the tune up, drive shafts were purchased new but items like the AMC 360, T-18 Transmission, Dana 44 axles were all bought piece by piece as came across lucky finds at bargain prices.
Eventually this Jeep hit the trails and plays hard. The main part of this project took about 2 1/2 years in my spare time. After I began, it soon became evident of the scope of the project I was undertaking. However I'm not one to cut corners and I like to plan things out down to the details so attention is paid to everything as things progressed. To this day its still a work in progress. With the help of a digital camera, project details in most cases eventually followed behind work done especially the custom projects. Updates to documenting the project are sometime a bit behind the actual project's progress. This page is the main index of each area of work as it is documented.
REMEMBER: I'm not an expert! I'm an average backyard mechanic. These pages are not meant to replace the manufacturer's instructions or be taken as a how-to, rather these pages are just my account of the project for your amusement only (just like the rest of the website). You might find a few tips in here and and maybe even a few blunders. If you choose to engage in these activities or undertake any project, it is by your own free will and at your own volition. I assume no liability for how any particular individual chooses to use the information presented in the pages of this project. With that out of the way ... Enjoy!
Ralph Hassel Offroaders.com