danattherock
Active Member
- Joined
- Jan 19, 2009
- Location
- NC
I have a stock 81 CJ-7 that my folks bought new in 1980. I have owned it for the last 20 years but never had the money to fix her up. Now I have the money, but lack the insights as to fixing her up. The Jeep is in good mechanical condition. Takes 10-12 pumps on the pedal to fire her up, she idles rough for a few minutes, and has lost lots of power over the years. But she is mechanically sound and has no rust.
First thing I have in mind is an engine rebuild. Read where a new ignition/distributor, MC 2100 carb, etc.. would be good to do at the time of the motor rebuild. Any thoughts on this appreciated. Also, any suggestions on reputable shops to do the rebuild. I live in Rockingham but will travel if needed.
Secondly, I want a lift kit and bigger tires. Perhaps a 4" lift that will let me put some 33's under it. Don't know jack about lift kits. I want to keep the ride quality good. Heard lots of folks jack their rides up and have bad steering/handling issues. I want to avoid this. Don't mind spending money for a quality lift, just not sure what that is. Any shops recommended to do this. I have only heard of Galloways.
Lastly, seems many folks upgrade the gears, axles, drive shafts, and brakes when they get the lift kits and big tires. I know nothing of this. Any suggestions on what would be ideal would be appreciated. Again, any shops that do good work?
For my intended usage, I just want this Jeep to be more "beastly". Lots of sentimental value so I don't want to do too much to ruin her stock appearance. I want to get her tough enough where I can take her to Uwharrie on weekends and do some mild/moderate trail riding. Most the time I use her to take my kayak out fishing, or to shoot guns, simple stuff like that. I will try to attach a picture below.
Thanks for any and all thoughts.
Dan
First thing I have in mind is an engine rebuild. Read where a new ignition/distributor, MC 2100 carb, etc.. would be good to do at the time of the motor rebuild. Any thoughts on this appreciated. Also, any suggestions on reputable shops to do the rebuild. I live in Rockingham but will travel if needed.
Secondly, I want a lift kit and bigger tires. Perhaps a 4" lift that will let me put some 33's under it. Don't know jack about lift kits. I want to keep the ride quality good. Heard lots of folks jack their rides up and have bad steering/handling issues. I want to avoid this. Don't mind spending money for a quality lift, just not sure what that is. Any shops recommended to do this. I have only heard of Galloways.
Lastly, seems many folks upgrade the gears, axles, drive shafts, and brakes when they get the lift kits and big tires. I know nothing of this. Any suggestions on what would be ideal would be appreciated. Again, any shops that do good work?
For my intended usage, I just want this Jeep to be more "beastly". Lots of sentimental value so I don't want to do too much to ruin her stock appearance. I want to get her tough enough where I can take her to Uwharrie on weekends and do some mild/moderate trail riding. Most the time I use her to take my kayak out fishing, or to shoot guns, simple stuff like that. I will try to attach a picture below.
Thanks for any and all thoughts.
Dan
