Throwback: A 1983 CJ7

[neohic]

1 hour ago, derf said:

But it looks better when properly equipped...

 

YES!! Sure does! Proper winch for a CJ. 

[derf]

I was able to wrap up everything and take it for a mostly successful test drive.

 

Steering and suspension in general are much improved.  Up to the level you'd expect from a CJ7.  So not great compared to my 2025 Subaru.  But it did 55 MPH down the road without any trouble.

 

I'm getting an intermittent check engine light from the Howell TBI.

 

There is also a noise coming from the transmission or transfer case as I'm actually moving.  Doesn't really change with speed.  But it's there.

 

I'm also hearing some pronounced valvetrain noise.  Likely some collapsed lifters as the noise comes and goes.  So a camshaft swap is in the cards.

 

I'm pretty sure I don't trust it enough for a longer trip.  And I have to get ready for my vacation road trip next weekend.  So a wheeling trip is out for now.

 

But it's running and driving more or less now.

[watchamakalit]

Running and driving is a huge success in cj ownership. once that hurdle is cleared the rest is all gravy. 

[neohic]

22 minutes ago, watchamakalit said:

Running and driving is a huge success in cj ownership. once that hurdle is cleared the rest is all gravy. 

Agreed! Lots of time in refining though. Thats also a part of CJ ownership… compromises.