Need wrenching buddy

[chefbaker42]

Haven't had a chance to head to the shop yet, but I did order that FSM. Should be here Wednesday, I can't wait. I will read that thing cover to cover before I do any more to my old jeep. Although the wife and my brother have me considering selling the j truck and buying a wrangler, maybe mid 80's early 90's.

I have seen trucks in worse shape, asking 3500-7000. So I would think fix the brakes and replace the windshield and ask 5k or straight trade, take anything over 3500. I just have no clue what (if anything) these trucks Have actually sold for.

Any thought on the best bang for buck on older wranglers?

[bobthetj03]

This article has some good info.

http://www.fourwheeler.com/features/154 ... jeep-ever/

[Whiteyj1994]

A lot depends on what your final plan is for it. Do you plan on daily driving it? Trail only? Dirt roads? Slick rock and rubicon? Do you mind fiddling with a carb? What size tires are you planning? The 95 has larger axle joints than earlier models. All of them came with a 35 rear which is fine up until 33s and a waste to install a locker. The 4 cylinders came with 4:10 gears but the 6 cylinders came with horrible 3:07s. Probably why I have no problem keeping pace with (and occasionally passing ) buddies with 6s that haven't regeared. Stay away from heavily home brewed modified ones, most people are hacks and can cause major headaches for you down the line.

[chefbaker42]

Great info. Thanks for the link bobthetj03.

As for plans, I don't intend to be a dd, but would like to be able to drive to trails and around town. No freeways near me, so no worries there. I live very close to sick rock, so that would be my main trail, but there are lots and lots of forest roads I like to just drive down around here. I would love 35s, but 32s will probably work for me for now. I don't mind working with a carb. I have been a spotter and passenger on many a trail, but just getting into getting my own rig, so not really sure what the gearing does. I know they need to be the same front and back. That is the reason I got rid of my 85 wagoneer. Kinda wish I kept it. Would have been nice to cut up and learn with. I am a bit apprehensive about cutting up this classic 67 j3000.

[Whiteyj1994]

Obviously I'm bias toward what I have, 94 FI 4 banger 5 speed with a 4 inch lift (and Sye kit) on 33x12.50s. It's very capable but upgrades are in the future when money isn't such an issue. The lower gearing ( higher number) helps crawl over rocks at a lower speed and compensates for taller heavier tires.

[chefbaker42]

Got my fsm in the mail today. That was very quick, ordered Friday and here on Tuesday, with a Monday holiday. I feel you on the money thing. I have been on work comp since September. Just released today and don't know if I still have my job. They are dicking me around.

Personally I would love to keep this truck, I think it looks bad ass and the engine is very strong. But I can't find much for an after market, so I will either have to learn how to fabricate real quick or win the lotto, because it is going to take a lot of work to get it slick rock ready. Or I can just get it fixed up to be a good old fashioned pickup truck, trade in my Silverado (once it's paid off) and buy a brand new wrangler. I only have like 16 or 18 payments left. I need at least one pickup where I live, for dump runs, and firewood trips and what not. Choices, choices.

Well I am off to finish my chores, then sit and read my FSM.

[chefbaker42]

Well this is no fun. Got the wrong FSM. This one is for the j100 200 & 300. Not the j3000. I need to call them in the morning and get the ball rolling to send it back and get the correct FSM.

[Whiteyj1994]

[chefbaker42]

I called and talked to them instead of just hitting the order button. I am hoping they sent the wrong one on accident. Otherwise I an out another 2 round of 6 dollar shipping. But the image you show is what I need.

[chefbaker42]

this is the one the sent me.