1981 Jeep CJ7

Description

Is it time for a Jeep resto-mod? It's hard to argue that this 1981 Jeep CJ7 with a small block V8, trick sport seats, and an upgraded suspension isn't a cool 4x4. It retains all that's awesome about Jeep's favorite 4x4 and adds more of everything you want: power, style, and comfort.

The CJ7 has been the off-roading weapon of choice for decades, so when it came time to give this one a few upgrades, they didn't hold back. The tub was refinished with medium green paint to give it a new look, complete with "High Jack" graphics on the hood and subtle pinstripe designs elsewhere on the tub. Finish quality is surprisingly good for a vehicle destined to spend its life playing in the mud, and if there was ever any rust in the usual spots, it has been found and corrected. Half doors enhance safety and are quickly removable for that full open-air experience Jeepers love. Big fender flares cover the oversized rubber, and a mesh grille guard provides extra protection against wayward stones on the trail. The whole thing has been raised a few inches, so heavy-duty Rhino step bars make it easy to climb aboard and you'll note that the big rear tire carrier is mounted to the bumper, not the tub, so you don't have to worry about damaged bodywork there. It's not over-done, but it definitely gets attention and for all the right reasons.

The interior features Corbeau sport seats that really help hold you in place during rough going. They're also a lot more comfortable than the usual Jeep stools and look trick in the open cockpit of the CJ7. The instrument panel has been extensively reworked to use Auto Meter Phantom instruments to monitor all the engine's vitals, along with simple indicator lights and switches for the auxiliary controls. A Grant GT steering wheel seems appropriate in this case, and you'll note that the shifter now controls five gears instead of the usual three or four (that's in addition to the 2-speed transfer case). A funky fan on the dash provides A/C, such as it is, but that only reinforces this Jeep's playful nature and purposeful design. And yes, there's an AM/FM/CD stereo stashed in there, so you don't have to go out into the wilderness without your entertainment. A bikini top provides a modicum of protection from the elements, but if you're worries about getting wet or dirty, this Jeep isn't for you.

A stout Chevy 350 cubic inch V8 found its way under the Jeep's hood, totally transforming it from capable 4x4 to off-road muscle car. The installation is professional and still offers good service access to the vital parts, and with a 4-barrel carburetor and dual Flowmasters, it sounds like horsepower at any speed. The chassis is fortified with a mild lift kit, skid plates, and a pair of sturdy axles, so you really can go anywhere without worries. Fresh shocks were fitted all around to help control the ride and it sits on polished aluminum bead-lock wheels and 33x12.50-15 BFGoodrich Radial Mud-Terrain T/A tires.

Not radical but improved in all the areas where it really matters, this Jeep is ready to play in the sun or have fun at the beach, and will definitely stand out in a crowded field. Call today!