One Ton YJ Build

02dmax

02dmax

Well-Known Member
Joined
Apr 23, 2007
Location
Raleigh
Well, I recently started a new build because my 5 year old wants to get out in the woods and play around. (Dont we all) So here it is, well the start of it anyway.

Plans are...
87 YJ Tub, CJ front clip
GM 5.3 LS/400/205 clocked flat
locked GM 60/14FF combo with 4.56 gears
42" IROKs on H2 wheels and STAUN internal beadlocks.
SUA on RE1455s (or links and coilovers when I win the lottery...)
I like leaf springs for several reasons. They are simple, stable, (important with a 5 year old riding shotgun) pedictable, and most importantly, cheap!

So far I picked up a YJ roller from a buddy of mine, totally stripped it and sent the chassis to sand blasting after removing all the brackets I wont be using. Primed the chassis and mounted a 2x4 .250 wall front bumper which will also be the mounting location for my front shackles. I am moving the front axle forward 4 inches and the rear back 6 inches to get me approx 103 wheelbase. Then I will redrill my perches one inch to put me at 105".
biggrin.png

The tub will be stripped and repainted as soon as I can decide on a color! LOL!
Here are some pics.

YJ.png
tub.png
primed.png
 
Last edited:
60Front.png
bumper2.png
Chassis.png
More
 
Can't wait to see how this build turns out. Don't do like me and go changing everything mid build. It really gets expensive.
I'm really liking my CJ front clip on my YJ.
I'm into my build about 14 or so months. I hope yours doesn't take as long.
Good luck
 
Thanks man, I hope not also! Researching other options for springs as I type this. Really want SUA front and rear, we'll see.
 
cool build hope to see it done mine is getting there but with unemployment money is tite so having to sell stuff to keep building i also am using leaf springs to keep cost down good luck
 
Picked up four RE1455s and a set of POLY bushings for all 4. Went and picked up all the 9/16 bolts and lock nuts for the shackles and hangers as well. Hope to have the springs mocked up this weeend and burn all the mounts in and get frame painted as well. Then I will start the spring under work on the 60 front and 14FF rear. Hope to have a productive day tomorrow.
 
Cool man! Those wheels and stauns will be nice and lightweight.
 
Great start! Love everything EXCEPT that you're getting rid of the square headlights. :flipoff2: JK! Can't wait to see how it turns out. I LOOOOVE some leaf springs. You won't be disappointed. Just get some good shocks and you'll be set.
 
I got the rear spring hangers moved back 6 inches and welded on. I used the Ruff Stuff 63" Chevy hangers since they taper over a longer plane. Should make for a nice place to slide over rocks. Going to use these in the front as well. I think I am going to use sliders front and rear but not 100% sure yet. I will have to see once I get the body, engine/trans, etc in it to see where the shackle ends of the springs are sitting. With no weight on the chassis its 25" off the garage floor on 42s SUA!!
 
Yes sir. Had a few bumps in the road that almost meant selling everything but looking ok right now.
 
Back
Top