Jeep CJ5 Tub For Sale On Craigslist

Jeep CJ5 Tub For Sale On Craigslist jeeps.truckstrend.com

The iconic Jeep CJ5, a rugged testament to American automotive history, holds a special place in the hearts of off-road enthusiasts and classic vehicle collectors alike. For many, owning a CJ5 is a dream, but maintaining or restoring one often involves a hunt for elusive parts. Among the most critical components for any serious restoration or custom build is the body tub – the core structure of the vehicle that houses the interior, seats, and serves as the mounting point for almost everything else. Finding a quality Jeep CJ5 tub for sale on Craigslist can be a game-changer for a project, offering a path to breathe new life into a beloved classic.

Craigslist, often perceived as a digital garage sale, is in fact a treasure trove for niche automotive parts. Its localized nature and direct seller-to-buyer interaction make it an ideal platform for finding larger, often difficult-to-ship items like a CJ5 tub. However, navigating this marketplace requires a discerning eye, patience, and a solid understanding of what you’re looking for. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about finding, evaluating, and acquiring a Jeep CJ5 tub on Craigslist, transforming a potentially daunting task into a rewarding pursuit.

Jeep CJ5 Tub For Sale On Craigslist

Why a CJ5 Tub? The Heart of a Classic

The Jeep CJ5, produced from 1955 to 1983, is renowned for its compact size, robust four-wheel-drive system, and timeless utilitarian design. Over decades of use, especially in harsh off-road environments or salty climates, the original steel body tubs often succumb to rust, rot, or significant damage from accidents or neglect.

A replacement tub becomes essential for several reasons:

• Restoration: For purists aiming to bring a CJ5 back to its original glory, a solid, rust-free tub is foundational.
• Repair: If an existing tub is extensively damaged, replacing it can be more cost-effective and structurally sound than attempting major repairs.
• Custom Builds: Many enthusiasts use a bare tub as the starting point for highly customized Jeeps, incorporating modern engines, suspensions, and interiors while retaining the classic CJ5 aesthetic.
• Safety: A compromised tub can affect the structural integrity and safety of the vehicle.

Finding a good tub means saving countless hours of welding, patching, and bodywork, allowing the restorer to focus on other aspects of the build.

Navigating Craigslist: Your Digital Junkyard for Jeep Parts

Craigslist’s strength lies in its simplicity and localized listings. To effectively search for a Jeep CJ5 tub for sale on Craigslist, follow these steps:

1. Targeted Search Terms: Beyond "Jeep CJ5 tub," use variations like "CJ5 body," "Jeep tub," "Willys tub" (for earlier models, though CJ5 is distinct), "Jeep project," or "CJ5 parts." Be broad initially, then refine.
2. Location, Location, Location: Craigslist is geographically based. Start with your local area and expand to nearby cities or states if necessary. Remember, a tub is large and heavy, making long-distance transport costly.
3. Filter and Sort: Use the available filters for "for sale by owner" or "for sale by dealer" (though most tubs will be private sales). Sort by "newest first" to catch fresh listings quickly.
4. Set Up Search Alerts: Many third-party tools or even some browser extensions can monitor Craigslist for new listings matching your keywords and notify you. This is crucial for competitive items like CJ5 tubs.
5. Browse Related Categories: Sometimes sellers miscategorize items. Check "auto parts," "heavy equipment," or even "free stuff" (you never know!).
6. Patience is Key: Finding the right tub might take weeks or months. Don’t rush into a purchase.

What to Look For: A Buyer’s Checklist for CJ5 Tubs

When evaluating a Jeep CJ5 tub for sale on Craigslist, thorough inspection is paramount. Many sellers provide limited photos, so an in-person viewing is almost always necessary.

Critical Inspection Points:

• Rust: This is the arch-nemesis of classic Jeeps.
  • Floorboards: Especially under the pedals, seats, and rear cargo area. Look for soft spots, holes, or extensive patchwork.
  • Hat Channels: These are the structural supports running underneath the floor. They collect water and rust from the inside out. Tap them to check for solidness.
  • Cowl and Windshield Frame Area: Water often pools here, leading to rust where the windshield mounts and around the dashboard.
  • Rear Corners/Wheel Wells: Prone to rust from road spray and trapped debris.
  • Body Mounts: Inspect where the tub bolts to the frame. Rust here can compromise structural integrity.
• Previous Repairs: Look for signs of amateur bodywork, excessive bondo (body filler), mismatched welds, or poorly done patches. A magnet can help detect thick layers of filler.
• Dents and Damage: Minor dents are usually fixable, but large creases or collision damage can be challenging and costly to repair.
• Originality vs. Aftermarket/Fiberglass:
  • Original Steel: The most authentic, but almost always comes with some rust or previous repairs. Check for original spot welds.
  • Fiberglass Tubs: Pros: No rust, lighter. Cons: Can feel less "solid," require different painting techniques, and some enthusiasts prefer steel for authenticity. Check for cracks or delamination.
  • Aftermarket Steel: New steel tubs are available from various manufacturers. Pros: No rust, new metal. Cons: Can be more expensive, and fitment might not be 100% perfect without some adjustment. Verify the manufacturer.
• Completeness: Does the tub come with the tailgate, fender flares, gas tank opening, or any other accessories? Factor these into the price.
• Straightness: Check for any twisting or warping. A tub that’s been stored improperly or involved in a major accident might not be square, leading to alignment issues during assembly.

Always bring a flashlight, a magnet, and perhaps a small hammer (for tapping hat channels) to an in-person inspection.

Types of CJ5 Tubs You Might Find

When searching for a Jeep CJ5 tub for sale on Craigslist, you’ll primarily encounter three types:

1. Original Steel Tubs (Used): These are pull-offs from existing Jeeps. Their condition varies wildly, from utterly rusted-out shells to surprisingly solid specimens. They offer the most authentic restoration experience but demand the most diligent inspection for rust and damage. Pricing is highly dependent on condition and location.
2. Fiberglass Tubs: Several companies produce fiberglass replacement tubs for CJ5s. These are generally lighter, impervious to rust, and often come with a smooth gel coat finish. They are a popular choice for those wanting a low-maintenance, durable body. However, some purists dislike them for their non-original material and different feel. Repairs to fiberglass require specific techniques.
3. Aftermarket Steel Tubs (New/Used): These are newly manufactured steel tubs, often imported. They offer the look and feel of original steel without the rust issues. Quality can vary between manufacturers, so research reviews if you find a brand-new one listed. Occasionally, someone buys one for a project and then sells it unused on Craigslist.

Pricing a CJ5 Tub: What to Expect

The price of a Jeep CJ5 tub for sale on Craigslist is highly variable, influenced by condition, type, completeness, and geographical demand. The table below provides a general pricing guide:

Tub Type/Condition	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Key Characteristics & Considerations
Original Steel (Poor/Rusted)	$200 – $600	Extensive rust, holes, significant bodywork needed. Best for experienced fabricators or parts.
Original Steel (Fair/Minor Rust)	$600 – $1,500	Surface rust, minor rot in common areas, repairable dents. Good starting point for a moderate restoration.
Original Steel (Good/Solid)	$1,500 – $3,000+	Minimal rust, straight panels, possibly some minor dents. Ready for prep and paint with minimal repair.
Fiberglass Tub (Used)	$800 – $2,000	Condition varies; check for cracks, delamination, previous repairs. Lighter, no rust.
Fiberglass Tub (New)	$2,000 – $3,500+	Brand new from a manufacturer, often still in packaging. Rust-free, but not original material.
Aftermarket Steel Tub (Used)	$1,500 – $2,800	Purchased new but never installed, or lightly used. Check for fitment issues if already modified.
Aftermarket Steel Tub (New)	$2,500 – $4,500+	Brand new from a manufacturer. Offers the look of original steel without the rust. Quality varies.

Note: These are estimated ranges. Prices can fluctuate based on local market demand, seller urgency, and additional components included (e.g., tailgate, fenders).

The Transaction: From Inquiry to Haul

Once you’ve found a promising Jeep CJ5 tub for sale on Craigslist, here’s how to proceed:

1. Initial Contact: Send a polite, concise message expressing interest. Ask specific questions about condition (beyond what’s in the ad), reason for selling, and availability for viewing. Request more detailed photos, especially of problem areas.
2. Scheduling a Viewing: Insist on an in-person inspection. Do not buy sight unseen unless the seller is a highly reputable business and you’re comfortable with the risks.
3. Thorough Inspection: Use your checklist (from above) during the viewing. Don’t feel rushed. Bring a knowledgeable friend if possible.
4. Negotiation: Be prepared to negotiate, especially if you find undisclosed issues. Have your budget in mind. A respectful offer, backed by observations of the tub’s condition, is more likely to succeed.
5. Payment: For larger items, cash is often preferred. Avoid wiring money or using payment apps with no buyer protection. If using PayPal, use "goods and services" for protection, but be aware of fees.
6. Logistics: A CJ5 tub is bulky. You’ll need a truck or a large utility trailer. Bring tie-downs, blankets, and extra hands for loading. Coordinate pickup times and ensure safe transport.
7. Bill of Sale: Always get a simple bill of sale, even for a tub. It should include seller and buyer information, date, item description (Jeep CJ5 tub), condition (as-is), and sale price. This protects both parties.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

While Craigslist offers great opportunities, it also presents challenges:

• Misrepresentation: Sellers may intentionally or unintentionally misrepresent the tub’s condition.
  • Solution: Always inspect in person. Ask probing questions.
• Scams: Fake listings, requests for upfront payment without viewing, or suspicious meeting locations.
  • Solution: Stick to local, in-person transactions. Never send money before seeing the item. Meet in well-lit, public places.
• Difficult Sellers: Unresponsive, uncooperative, or overly aggressive individuals.
  • Solution: If communication is difficult early on, it’s often a red flag. Move on.
• Transport Logistics: Tubs are large and awkward to move.
  • Solution: Plan ahead. Rent a trailer, borrow a truck, or hire a local hauler if needed. Ensure you have proper tie-downs.
• Hidden Damage: Some rust or damage might only become apparent after sandblasting or further disassembly.
  • Solution: Do the most thorough inspection possible. Factor potential unknown repairs into your budget. "Assume the worst, hope for the best."

Restoration Considerations After Purchase

Congratulations! You’ve successfully acquired a Jeep CJ5 tub for sale on Craigslist. The real work begins now:

1. Stripping and Cleaning: Remove any remaining accessories, clean off dirt, and prepare for further assessment.
2. Sandblasting/Media Blasting: This is highly recommended for steel tubs to reveal all rust and previous repairs. It provides a clean canvas.
3. Rust Repair and Fabrication: Address all rust areas, either by patching with new metal or replacing entire sections (e.g., floor pans, hat channels).
4. Bodywork: Repair dents, smooth out surfaces, and prepare for paint. This includes applying body filler where necessary, but sparingly.
5. Primer and Paint: Apply a high-quality epoxy primer to prevent future rust, followed by body filler primer, sanding, and finally, your chosen color coat.
6. Fitting and Assembly: Test fit components like the windshield frame, doors, and fenders to ensure proper alignment before final assembly.

Conclusion

Finding a Jeep CJ5 tub for sale on Craigslist is more than just a transaction; it’s an investment in a piece of automotive history and the foundation for countless adventures. While the process demands diligence, patience, and a keen eye for detail, the reward of bringing a classic CJ5 back to life is immeasurable. By following this guide – from strategic searching and meticulous inspection to careful negotiation and transport – you can confidently navigate the Craigslist marketplace. Remember, the perfect tub might not appear overnight, but with persistence, you’ll find the heart your CJ5 project needs, setting the stage for years of rugged enjoyment and nostalgic journeys. Happy hunting, and may your CJ5 dreams come true!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use a CJ7 tub on a CJ5?
A1: No, a CJ7 tub has a longer wheelbase (93.5 inches vs. 81 inches for a CJ5) and is fundamentally different in dimensions. It will not directly fit a CJ5 frame.

Q2: Are fiberglass tubs as durable as steel?
A2: Fiberglass tubs are very durable and resistant to rust, which is their main advantage. However, they can crack upon impact more easily than steel can dent, and repairs require specific fiberglass techniques rather than welding. They also feel different when driving due to their lighter weight and different resonance.

Q3: How do I transport a Jeep CJ5 tub safely?
A3: A CJ5 tub is bulky but relatively light. You’ll need a pickup truck with a long bed (at least 6-8 feet) or a utility trailer. Use strong tie-down straps (ratchet straps are best) to secure it from multiple points, and place blankets or cardboard between the tub and any contact points to prevent scratches. Bring at least one extra person to help lift and load.

Q4: What’s the average cost for a decent CJ5 tub?
A4: As detailed in the "Pricing a CJ5 Tub" table, a decent, repairable original steel tub typically ranges from $600 to $1,500. A solid, near-rust-free original or a new aftermarket steel tub can go for $1,500 to $3,000+, while new fiberglass tubs are generally $2,000-$3,500. Prices vary significantly based on condition and location.

Q5: Should I buy a heavily rusted tub and try to fix it?
A5: Unless you have extensive welding and fabrication experience, or are willing to pay for professional restoration, buying a heavily rusted tub is often more expensive and time-consuming than finding a more solid one. It can become a money pit quickly. Minor rust is usually manageable, but major structural rust in hat channels or floorboards should be approached with caution.