even more bummed
jeep_2007 said:
I saw the show this past weekend, and I am happy with what they have done so far. The one thing that I really did not like was the use of the TJ grill instead of the classic CJ grill... That's the number one reason I own a CJ. Also, if it were my project I would have left the front axle with free/locking hubs to make it street driveable... but that's just me.
But overall, I am happy on what the Xtreme 4X4 team has done with this project, and with the other projects in the past. I know they did not stick to a true CJ8, but they are doing a great job.
I agree with you. I am sorry it's not a cj8! It looks cool for a mutt jeep (cj/yj/tj)! Ian I do have some questions with this build:
1. Is the tdk frame as wide as a stock cj8 frame? Or is it wider then an OEM cj8 frame?
2. If you were to do this project over would it be more cost effective to find a used tj unlimited body and frame from a junkyard instead of buying a new tdk frame and aluminum body?
Why I ask:
1. I ask this because I am very interested in the tdk frame. The problem with jeep cj frames threw out their production IMO was the frames are too narrow. Compared to jeep yj/tj frames where you have more room between the frame rails for dual exhaust, larger gas tank, third link, drive shafts, and custom stuff... so if the tdk frame is wider then the a stock cj8 frame I think I'm in.
2. As you know a ton of us guys/gals out here in jeep land build are rigs on a budget. The tdk frame starts at $2500.00. The aquala aluminum jeep cj8 body is $4054.00. So you would be around $6554.00 just for the frame and tub. If you’re building a true cj8 from the ground up I can see spending the money. But IMO that's wasted money if you’re trying to turn your cj8 into a jeep tj unlimited.
To conclude:
I do agree with jeep 2007.
"a jeep cj is a classic." and I do understand that you did not stick with the true cj8 look (obviously). Although I don't agree with the name of the build " cj8 project ". The jeep Mutt that you built does look really cool. And I can only hope my jeep cj8 will turn out as nice(minus the tj grill and yj hood) .I can say from being a true jeep cj guy it was disappointing to see the tj grill and yj hood! even more so after you posting here on cj-8.com. I feel that was a slap to the face.
I can also say that I think if the outcome of the jeep was to end up looking like a jeep tj unlimited from the start. A salvaged tj unlimited would have been money well spent. wider frame, longer wheel base, and you can run any tj suspension you want.
It's a funny thing to see what people think when it comes to a true jeep.
IMO [(at this point I sure no one cares) LOL]
*A true jeep keeps the original body and components for that designated year, make, and model. That includes but not limited to color, decal package, interior, drive train, tires...
After that there are tiers that break up how true your jeep is too original.
I'm not sure what those tiers should be called but they are out there.
Maybe:
*
original-as it came from the factory. with no deviation from factory original condition.
*
stock-may have not come that way from the factory but has correct parts for the year jeep. Ex. like upgrading a motor, transmission, or special order option like delay wipers, ac...
*
prostock-mostly stock, has all and only jeep drive train parts, some aftermarket parts, but the body/frame has not been touched with a saw or torch
*
modified- jeep body, jeep frame and any drive train and parts you can bolt without major modification.
*
custom-modified jeep body, modified jeep frame and any drive train and parts you can bolt on, weld, or customize to fit.
*
mutt- anything goes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And I'm sure there are variations that can fit between all the tiers list above.
The other side to this coin is. some people have no ideal how original their jeep truly is or isn't. This is because of some simple reasons, education on the subject, and how many hands the jeep has slipped threw.
back to the main subject:
In short I'm bummed it didn't turn out to be a cj8 in the end.
keep jeepen,
7jeeps7kings
