Mods might want to move this thread to the "Builds Section" next month, once I get started
I bought this Scrambler to make into my new trail rig. I like driving my Green Scrambler, but I dont have the heart to modify it to make it offroad worthy, it is too original. So, I am selling my current trail rig (CJ-7) and I am going to build this Scrambler into my new trail rig.
My definition of" trail rig" might be different then most. This isnt going to have a V8 (have one now, hate the gas mileage), no one ton axles, crazy link suspensions, or any real body mods to it. I am going to be reusing all of the strock powertrain, but specific upgrdes will be made. My goal is to have a Scrambler that I can comfortably and safely drive on the interstate and the trails. My current CJ-7 meets my goals, so this Jeep will be modified in much the same ways
Here is my plan:
Engine - I will be keeping the current 258 I6. This motor held over 55 psi of oil pressure all the way back from Indiana, pulls very strong, and doesnt make any funny noise. I might run a compression test on it, but I have no plans to rebuild it at this time. It runs that good. Only mod will be the Mopar Multi Point Fuel Injection kit, which I have sitting in a box in my garage right now. Will also put a metal valve cover on it and change a few other misc seals.
Transmission - I am going to reuse the current T-176 that it currently has. It shifts fine, no bad vibes or any issues except it has some leaks. I will rebuild it with new bearings and seals.
T - Case - I plan on rebuilding it with new seals and bearings, only issue is some leaks. I will probably put a clocking ring on it to increase ground clearance, and maybe in the future put some lower gears in it if I feel it is needed.
Rear End - Going to keep the AMC 20. Complete rebuild with:
New ring and pinion (probably 3.73 or 4.10) Currently has 3.31
Selectable Locker (probably OX, but I might put a Aussie full time locker in it)
Warn Full Float axle kit (sitting in the garage)
Will probably stich weld the tubes to the center section while I have it out to rebuild
Front End - Going to keep the Dana 30. Complete rebuild with:
New ring and pinion (probably 3.73 or 4.10) Currently has 3.31
Will probably put a Aussie in the stock front carrier for now
Warn Chrome Moly front shafts that take the Dana 44 size U joints (sitting in the garage)
Really need the Warn frint hub conversion. If I cant buy another setup like this I will steal the kit off of my current CJ-7. (It replaceds the bolt on hubs with internal spline hubs like a full size truck)
Suspension - Rubicon Express 4.5" extreme duty system
Tires and wheels - looking at 34 x 10.50 LTBS on the stock rims for now
Other misc mechanical upgrades: new clutch, maybe swap to power brakes, maybe disc brakes on the back.
After I stripped off the bed liner I did some soul searching. This scrambler tub doesnt have too much rust, but I also know if I dont fix it now, and fix it right, it will only deteriate. I know its going to be my trail rig, BUT my plans for the body and frame are:
Frame - excellent shape, will media blast and repaint inside and out. It doesnt have any cracks or soft spots, just surface rust.
Body - Media blast the entire body and repaint the entire thing, everywhere. Replacement panels ordered are as follows (all from classic enterprises):
rear bed floor piece - current one is still solid but it is dented and has lots of pinn holes
rear bed, front pasenger side corner piece - currently has a patch. The other 3 are solid, as are the wheel wells
front floor pans where your feet go - It currently has solid patch pieces in place but I want it to look original so I ordered new floor pans.
Other body pieces to order: windshield frame (current one is rusted along bottom edge), tailgate (current one is dented pretty bad, but no rust) and need another bulkhead (current one is rusted out along the bottom edge, should be buying one soon)
I plan on repainting the entire Scrambler Sebring Red and putting back on some repro decals. I will also paint my rocker guards to mach the paint so that i can put the factory decals on them and the scheme will match. Will paint 1/2 hard top Nutmeg and replace seats and interior with Nutmeg pieces.
This should keep me busy for awhile
Other plans are mounting my Warn 9500 on the front, building a rear bumper tire carrier to mount on the current rear bumper, Rock Hard In Cab Cage, etc etc
Sounds like alot of work for a "trail jeep", but I want a solid, reliable, good looking Scrambler I can be proud of