Early CJ5 to Late CJ5 difference

Ricky B

Ricky B

Wiiide Open
Joined
Mar 20, 2005
Location
LKN - Tha Dirty Mo (Mooresville, NC)
I know that somewhere in mid 70's the CJ5 had some changes done because i keep seeing early CJ5 or late CJ5 options on parts, etc. Anybody know exactly what changed during that time and what is interchangable between the two? One point in specific is will a Early 70's and late 70's/80's CJ5 body bolt in the same places as each other?
Thanks
 
The first major change was 1971 when AMC took over. The second change occured in 76 when the CJ7 was introduced. To go over all the changes; body, frame, drivetrain, suspension, etc. could take hours.
Anything specific?
The frame is different on the later models and the tub is different. They will not bolt up without fabrication. The early frame is basically straight, the later frame widens towards the rear.
 
All I need to know is the body wise changes from the older body (for example I have a 74) to the newer body after 76. If anyone has any pics showing the Body changes that be sweet too.

Ok thanks for the info on the body/ frame changes, what would whave to be changed if I wanted to put the newer body on the older body frame, just body mounts or more?

Basically I'm just trying to figure out all my options for fixing my CJ5's rustyness before I do something.
 
They changed from c- channel chassis to boxed, an were tapered.
tool boxes were under the jump seats on early models, fuel tanks
were under seats on the early models,mounting eyes are different
locations on frames far as tubs are concerned.
 
windshields are different also. The early models are more verticle. The roll bar is also different. The early models also had tailgates, I believe. The early model's top will not fit on a later model as well.

I'm sure there are many more differences that I haven't mentioned

Rob
 
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