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1979 Jeep CJ5

This vehicle is being sold as is with a clean Minnesota title in the seller's name.

This beautiful CJ5 is the result of many hours labor by several craftsmen over 2 years. Originally a 1978 6-cyl Jeep with a three-speed manual, the corroded tub was scrapped in favor of a clean and dry body from a 1979 model, sourced from Collins Brothers Jeep out of Wylie, TX.. The VIN from the 1978 frame was removed and saved, and the body VIN of the 1979 was used for registration.

In 2013, the body and frame were stripped to the metal and painted black. Over the course of two years, until it's completion in 2015, new parts were sourced and fitted, and the drivetrain was rebuilt.

The 6-cylinder was removed in favor of a 304 AMC V-8, backed by a 4-speed and Dana transfer case, sourced from a 1979 CJ5 also from Collins Brother's Jeep. The V-8 was completely torn down and rebuilt by Roger's Auto Machine and Parts out of Garland, Texas. It was topped with an Edelbrock Performer intake, 650cfm Edelbrock carburetor, and finished with an Edelbrock chrome dress-up kit. A mild cam was installed and an HEI distributor and 8mm MSD plug wires handle the spark delivery, supported by an Optima Yellowtop battery. Hedman headers provide free-flowing exhaust, finished off by dual side-pipes for a satisfying rumble. Cooling is handled with an aluminum radiator, which was installed this year.

For suspension duties, a 4" Rough Country lift was installed to complement the 15x10 aluminum wheels and 33" Dick Cepek Fun Country tires.

From it's completion in 2015, 1,800 miles have been added to the odometer. The undercarriage shows very well, with all the parts looking fresh and operating as designed.

Quick disconnects were used for the front stabilizer bar to make off-road adjustments simple. A steering stabilizer was utilized to keep the driver in control.

A Ramsey 8,500 lb winch was installed on the front bumper.

The dashboard was treated with a bedliner-type coating, and a block-off plate installed in lieu of a radio. High-backed bucket Bestop seats were installed behind an 8-ball shift knob and Grant steering wheel.

The current owner replaced the upper intake seal and oil pan gasket, due to a slight drip. The engine runs flawlessly and the clean internals bear witness to its current 1,800 miles.

The paint presents well, but has flaws which are apparent on closer inspection. All the lights, trim, and chrome were installed new.

Included in the sale is a bikini top, full Bestop soft top and doors, and uninstalled Rugged Ridge center console. Also, a custom tow bar which can be fitted to the front bumper is included for flat towing.