Jeep CJ5 Fiberglass Tub For Sale: Rejuvenate Your Classic Off-Roader
Jeep CJ5 Fiberglass Tub For Sale: Rejuvenate Your Classic Off-Roader jeeps.truckstrend.com
The iconic Jeep CJ5 holds a special place in the hearts of off-road enthusiasts and classic vehicle collectors alike. Renowned for its rugged simplicity, go-anywhere capability, and timeless design, the CJ5 remains a highly sought-after vehicle. However, like many vintage steel-bodied vehicles, the CJ5 is highly susceptible to rust, especially in its body tub. Years of exposure to the elements, road salt, and harsh off-road environments can leave the original steel tub riddled with corrosion, compromising both its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
This is where the Jeep CJ5 Fiberglass Tub For Sale emerges as a game-changer. A fiberglass replacement tub offers a modern, durable, and rust-proof solution for restoring, customizing, or even building a CJ5 from the ground up. It provides a robust foundation that breathes new life into these beloved Jeeps, allowing owners to enjoy their classic rigs for many more years without the constant battle against oxidation. This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of purchasing, installing, and benefiting from a fiberglass tub for your Jeep CJ5.
Jeep CJ5 Fiberglass Tub For Sale: Rejuvenate Your Classic Off-Roader
Why Choose a Fiberglass Tub for Your CJ5? The Unbeatable Advantages
When faced with a rusted-out CJ5 body, owners typically have two main options: extensive metalwork and body panel replacement, or opting for a new fiberglass tub. For many, fiberglass presents a compelling and often superior alternative.
- Rust Immunity: This is arguably the most significant advantage. Fiberglass is impervious to rust and corrosion, meaning your new tub will never suffer from the bubbling, flaking, and eventual perforation that plagues steel bodies. This dramatically reduces long-term maintenance and preserves your investment.
- Lighter Weight: Fiberglass tubs are generally lighter than their steel counterparts. This reduction in unsprung weight can lead to improved fuel economy (though marginal for a CJ5), better power-to-weight ratio, and potentially enhanced off-road performance due to a lower center of gravity and reduced overall vehicle mass.
- Durability and Impact Resistance: While often perceived as fragile, high-quality fiberglass tubs are incredibly durable. They can flex under impact without deforming permanently, unlike steel which can dent. Minor scratches or gouges are also relatively easy to repair.
- Ease of Repair: Should a fiberglass tub sustain damage, repairs are typically straightforward using fiberglass repair kits, resin, and matting. This process is often simpler and less labor-intensive than welding and patching steel.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial outlay for a fiberglass tub might seem significant, consider the alternative: hours of professional bodywork, welding, panel replacement, and rust treatment for a steel tub. In many cases, especially for heavily rusted vehicles, a fiberglass tub can be a more cost-effective solution in the long run.
- Consistency and Fitment: Reputable manufacturers use molds to produce fiberglass tubs, ensuring consistent dimensions and fitment. This can make the installation process smoother compared to trying to align and fit multiple new steel panels onto an old, potentially twisted frame.
Understanding the Types and Features of CJ5 Fiberglass Tubs
Not all fiberglass tubs are created equal. Knowing the different types and features available will help you make an informed decision.
- Complete Tubs vs. Sectional Replacements:
- Complete Tubs: These are the most common and comprehensive option, replacing the entire original steel tub from the firewall back, including the floor, side panels, wheel wells, and tailgate opening. They are ideal for severely rusted vehicles or ground-up builds.
- Sectional Replacements: Some manufacturers offer specific fiberglass sections, such as the cowl, rear quarter panels, or floor sections. These are less common for CJ5s but can be useful if only a specific area of your original tub is compromised.
- Integrated vs. Separate Components:
- Integrated Dash/Firewall: Most complete fiberglass tubs come with the dash panel and firewall molded directly into the tub, simplifying assembly.
- Tailgate Opening: Tubs typically feature an opening designed for the original steel tailgate, though some might offer an integrated fiberglass tailgate as an option.
- Fender Flares: Some tubs are designed to accept factory-style bolt-on fender flares, while others might have integrated, wider flares molded directly into the body for a more aggressive look or to accommodate larger tires.
- Mounting Points and Hardware: High-quality tubs will have pre-drilled holes for body mounts, seat mounts, roll bar mounts, and other essential components, designed to align with the original CJ5 chassis. Ensure these mounting points are reinforced to provide secure attachment.
- Gel Coat Finish: Fiberglass tubs come with a gel coat finish, which is the outer layer that provides color and protection. This can be sanded and painted to match your desired vehicle color, or in some cases, the gel coat itself might be a specific color (though painting is almost always recommended for UV protection and longevity).
The Purchase Process: What to Look For When Buying
Acquiring a fiberglass tub requires careful consideration to ensure you get a quality product that meets your needs.
- Reputable Manufacturers/Sellers: Stick to well-known manufacturers with a proven track track record in the fiberglass automotive industry. Check online reviews, forums, and testimonials. Avoid "no-name" sellers offering suspiciously low prices.
- Quality Indicators:
- Gel Coat Finish: Inspect the gel coat for smoothness, consistency, and absence of significant air bubbles, cracks, or imperfections. A good gel coat is a sign of careful molding.
- Thickness and Rigidity: Feel the thickness of the fiberglass throughout the tub. It should feel robust and rigid, not flimsy or excessively flexible. Pay attention to high-stress areas like body mounts and firewall.
- Fitment Accuracy: While you can’t test-fit before buying, ask for detailed dimensions and compare them to your existing frame. Reputable manufacturers pride themselves on accurate molds that ensure proper alignment with OEM chassis components.
- Reinforcements: Look for evidence of reinforced areas around mounting points, door openings, and the windshield frame attachment points. These often involve thicker fiberglass or integrated metal plates.
- Inclusions and Exclusions: Clarify what exactly comes with the tub. Does it include the dash panel, inner fender wells, tailgate opening, or any small hardware? Understand what you’ll need to source separately.
- Shipping Considerations: Fiberglass tubs are large and require specialized freight shipping. Get a clear shipping quote, including insurance. Discuss how the tub will be packaged to prevent damage during transit. Inspect the tub thoroughly upon delivery before signing off.
- Warranty Information: A reputable manufacturer will offer a warranty against manufacturing defects. Understand the terms and duration of the warranty.
Installation Guide: Replacing Your CJ5 Tub
Replacing a CJ5 tub is a significant undertaking, but it’s a manageable DIY project for someone with mechanical aptitude and the right tools.
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Preparation and Disassembly:
- Document Everything: Take plenty of photos and videos during disassembly. Label all wires, bolts, and components.
- Remove Components: Disconnect the battery. Systematically remove all components attached to the old tub: seats, roll bar, steering column, pedals, wiring harness, fuel tank, brake lines, heater, windshield, doors, and anything else.
- Lift the Old Tub: Unbolt the old tub from the frame. Use a hoist, engine crane, or a few strong friends to carefully lift the old tub off the chassis.
- Chassis Inspection and Prep: This is the ideal time to inspect your CJ5’s frame for rust, cracks, or damage. Repair or reinforce as needed. Clean and paint the frame, replace body mounts, and inspect brake lines and fuel lines running along the frame.
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Mounting the Fiberglass Tub:
- Positioning: Carefully lower the new fiberglass tub onto the chassis, ensuring proper alignment with the body mount holes.
- Alignment and Shimming: Fiberglass tubs are designed to fit, but minor adjustments may be needed. Use shims (washers or purpose-made shims) between the tub and the frame mounts to ensure the tub sits level and true, preventing stress points.
- Bolting Down: Secure the tub to the frame using new, appropriately sized bolts and washers. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the fiberglass. Use thread locker for added security.
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Transferring Components:
- Wiring Harness: Route the original wiring harness through the new tub’s firewall and along its interior. Ensure all connections are clean and secure.
- Steering Column, Pedals, Controls: Reinstall these components, ensuring smooth operation and proper alignment.
- Fuel Tank and Lines: Reinstall the fuel tank (often located under the rear of the tub) and connect all fuel lines securely.
- Brake Lines: Reconnect or replace brake lines as needed, bleeding the system thoroughly after.
- Roll Bar and Seats: Reinstall the roll bar and seats, ensuring all mounting points are secure and reinforced if necessary.
- Windshield Frame and Doors: Reattach the windshield frame and doors, adjusting hinges as needed for proper fit and gap.
Customization and Finishing Your Fiberglass Tub
Once the tub is installed, it’s time to make it truly your own.
- Painting: Fiberglass tubs come with a gel coat, which needs to be prepped and painted.
- Surface Prep: Clean the tub thoroughly. Lightly sand the gel coat with fine-grit sandpaper to create a good adhesion surface.
- Primer: Apply a high-quality automotive primer designed for fiberglass or plastics.
- Paint: Apply your desired automotive paint color. Urethane-based paints are durable and provide a good finish.
- Clear Coat: For a deep gloss and added protection, apply several layers of clear coat.
- Adding Accessories: Install your chosen fenders, rock sliders, bumpers, and other exterior accessories. Many fiberglass tubs are designed to accept OEM-style accessories.
- Interior Finishing:
- Sound Deadening/Insulation: Apply sound deadening mats or spray-on insulation to the interior floor and sides to reduce road noise and regulate temperature.
- Floor Coverings: Install rubber mats, carpet, or durable bed liner material on the floor for protection and comfort.
- Upholstery: Reupholster or replace seats as desired.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
While a fiberglass tub simplifies many aspects of a CJ5 restoration, a few challenges can arise.
- Fitment Minor Adjustments: Even with well-made tubs, minor shimming or light sanding/trimming might be required to achieve perfect alignment with the frame or other components. Be patient and make small adjustments.
- Wiring Routing: The new tub’s internal contours might differ slightly from the original, requiring creative routing of the wiring harness. Ensure wires are secured and protected from abrasion.
- Paint Adhesion: Proper surface preparation (cleaning, sanding, appropriate primer) is crucial for good paint adhesion on fiberglass. Don’t skip steps.
- Hardware Sourcing: You’ll likely need new body mount bolts, washers, and various small fasteners. Keep an organized inventory during disassembly.
- Shipping Damage: Thoroughly inspect the tub upon arrival. If damage is found, document it immediately with photos and contact the shipping company and seller before accepting delivery.
Practical Advice and Actionable Insights
- Plan Thoroughly: Before purchasing, decide on your build’s scope, budget, and desired outcome.
- Quality Over Cost: While budget is a factor, investing in a high-quality fiberglass tub from a reputable manufacturer will save you headaches and expenses down the line.
- DIY vs. Professional: Assess your mechanical skills and available tools. While installation is DIY-friendly, complex wiring or heavy lifting might require professional assistance.
- Factor in All Costs: Remember to budget not just for the tub, but also for shipping, paint, body mounts, new hardware, and any desired interior or exterior accessories.
- Safety First: Always use proper lifting equipment, wear safety glasses, and follow safe working practices.
Price Table: Jeep CJ5 Fiberglass Tub For Sale
Here’s an estimated price guide for various Jeep CJ5 fiberglass tub options. Prices can vary significantly based on manufacturer, features, and market conditions.
| Product/Description | Material | Key Features | Estimated Price Range (USD) | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic CJ5 Full Fiberglass Tub | Fiberglass | Complete tub, integrated firewall & dash, unpainted gel coat | $2,800 – $3,800 | New |
| Deluxe CJ5 Fiberglass Tub | Fiberglass | Basic tub features + reinforced mounting points, pre-drilled accessory holes | $3,500 – $4,500 | New |
| CJ5 Fiberglass Tub with Integrated Flares | Fiberglass | Deluxe features + wider, molded-in fender flares | $3,800 – $5,000 | New |
| CJ5 Fiberglass Tub (Used/Salvage) | Fiberglass | Condition varies, may require repairs, no warranty | $1,500 – $2,500+ | Used |
| CJ5 Fiberglass Tub Kit (DIY) | Fiberglass | Tub components (e.g., body, floor, cowl) requiring assembly | $2,000 – $3,000 | New |
| Shipping Costs (Freight) | N/A | Varies by distance and carrier | $300 – $800+ | N/A |
Note: Prices are estimates and do not include paint, interior finishing, or installation labor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is a fiberglass tub strong enough for serious off-roading?
A1: Yes, high-quality fiberglass tubs are designed to be extremely durable and can withstand the rigors of serious off-roading. They are often more flexible and less prone to permanent deformation than steel when subjected to impact.
Q2: How long does a fiberglass tub last?
A2: With proper care and maintenance (primarily protecting the gel coat/paint from UV exposure), a fiberglass tub can last for decades, far outliving a steel tub in rust-prone environments.
Q3: Can I paint a fiberglass tub any color I want?
A3: Absolutely. Fiberglass tubs come with a primer-ready gel coat. You can prep, prime, and paint them with any automotive paint system to match your desired color scheme.
Q4: Is a fiberglass tub significantly lighter than a steel one?
A4: Yes, fiberglass tubs are generally lighter than their steel counterparts, often by several hundred pounds. This weight savings can improve performance and fuel economy.
Q5: Does installing a fiberglass tub require special tools?
A5: While standard automotive tools are sufficient for most of the installation, you may need a body hoist or engine crane for safely lifting the old and new tubs. Basic fiberglass repair kits might be useful for minor adjustments or future repairs.
Q6: Where can I buy a Jeep CJ5 fiberglass tub?
A6: You can purchase them directly from manufacturers, through authorized dealers, or sometimes from specialty Jeep parts retailers. Online marketplaces may also list used tubs.
Q7: How do I transfer my vehicle’s VIN plate to the new tub?
A7: This is a critical legal step. Regulations vary by state/country, so consult your local DMV or equivalent authority. In most cases, you will need to carefully remove the original VIN plate from your old tub and securely attach it to the new fiberglass tub in the designated location, often with rivets. Some jurisdictions may require inspection.
Conclusion
The Jeep CJ5 fiberglass tub for sale represents a fantastic opportunity to breathe new life into a classic American icon. By offering unparalleled rust resistance, lighter weight, and impressive durability, these tubs provide a long-lasting and often more economical solution than extensive steel body repair. Whether you’re undertaking a full restoration, building a custom rig, or simply replacing a hopelessly rusted original, a fiberglass tub provides a robust and beautiful foundation. With careful selection, proper installation, and a touch of personalization, your CJ5 will not only look stunning but will also be ready to conquer trails and turn heads for generations to come, free from the perennial threat of rust.
