The computer controlled carb equipped CJ's can and do run excellent. From reading posts, it seems like every stock 80's CJ runs like crap. That is just not true
And they sure didn't run like crap when they left the original dealer's lots
I have drove/repaired quite a few of these late model CJ's, and they can run great and be reliable. A few quick caveats:
1) If the entire system is intact/operational, they run great. Sometimes a small issue with one component can make the entire system not work correctly. It is actually a fairly advanced system, for early '80's technology. The biggest problem is trouble shooting. Unlike modern complex vehicles, where you simply plug in a scan tool to tell you a problem/observe operational data, the CJ system is not that easy to decipher. It will tell you of problems, but you have to get out a volt meter and start probing the diagnostic port, and get out a vacuum gauge and start checking lines/components.
2) Previous owner's can be the worst enemy.
I DO NOT THINK YOU WILL HAVE THIS PROBLEM, your former owner took super great care of this Scrambler. I have seen some pretty "bubba" repairs and mods, then people blame it on the carb. Kind of like if someone cuts your legs off then asks you to run a marathon.
3) Big Walton eluded to something very important, the wiring. The computer/carb/feedback system has it's own harness. Over time/previous repairs/modifications this harness can become damaged. If the sensors can't talk to the computer, that's a problem. I had a problem with the harness in my green '83. it was pretty much butchered/damaged/destroyed around the intake/exhaust manifold. This is a common area for problems due to heat in this area.
4) I "restored" the entire emissions/carb feed back system on my green '83, except for the pulse air system. Once I installed an undamaged harness, all the electrical components were functional. After changing out vacuum hoses, and a few vacuum valves, all the vacuum stuff worked. It takes time to do this. The thing that took me the longest was understanding how the system works. Once you figure that out, it becomes easier to repair/diagnose. It is challenging, but it is also rewarding
5) If I had an original paint Jeep, that was all stock, you can bet it would be 100% stock under the hood, too. They are only stock/original once. I hate seeing an excellent shape/original paint Jeep that is all stock, then under the hood is a Weber or Motorcraft carb with butchered emissions/feed back system. Kind of like seeing what's under the dress is a big Johnson
Fuel system/ignition upgrades are fine, if done correctly. Hell, my red Scrambler has Mopar MPI, my green Scrambler will have Mopar MPI, and my tan Scrambler has a TBI 350. So, I am not against correctly executed modifications. But/also, none of my Scrambler's are original paint/close to being stock specimens. My tan Scrambler is original paint, but a previous owner swapped in the 350/700R4. My green Scrambler is "kinda of stock", re-painted the factory color/reupholstered interior. My red Scrambler was completely rebuilt for trail/cross country trips. But, if I had a stock/original paint CJ/Scrambler, it would be the same under the hood.
6) Just my opinion, but a completely functional stock carb/feedback/emissions system will add value to the Jeep.
7) Just my opinion again, but the Hesco/Mopar MPI kit is kind of like a factory/Jeep supported upgrade. Big performance and reliability gains, but it won't be "original/stock" anymore. I have this kit on my red Scrambler and love it. I like it so much I am installing it on my more stockish Green Scrambler, too
8) It's your Jeep, do what you want
