Jeep CJ5 Used Tub For Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Restoration and Customization

Jeep CJ5 Used Tub For Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Restoration and Customization jeeps.truckstrend.com

The iconic Jeep CJ5, with its rugged simplicity and legendary off-road prowess, holds a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. For many, owning a CJ5 is a dream, and for current owners, maintaining or restoring one is a passionate endeavor. When significant rust, accident damage, or simply the desire for a fresh start arises, the search for a "Jeep CJ5 used tub for sale" often becomes a critical quest. A tub, in automotive parlance, refers to the main body shell of the vehicle, excluding the frame, engine, and other mechanical components. Finding the right used tub can be the linchpin of a successful restoration project, a cost-effective alternative to extensive bodywork, or the perfect foundation for a custom build, allowing owners to breathe new life into these classic machines without breaking the bank on a full vehicle purchase. This comprehensive guide will navigate the intricacies of finding, inspecting, purchasing, and preparing a used CJ5 tub, empowering you with the knowledge needed to embark on your next Jeep adventure.

Jeep CJ5 Used Tub For Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Restoration and Customization

Why Buy a Used CJ5 Tub? The Appeal of Restoration and Customization

The decision to seek out a used Jeep CJ5 tub for sale is driven by several compelling factors, each offering unique benefits to the aspiring restorer or custom builder.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Repairing extensive rust or collision damage on an existing CJ5 tub can be incredibly time-consuming and expensive, often requiring specialized welding and bodywork skills. Purchasing a solid used tub, even one that needs some work, can frequently be more economical than paying for professional repairs or buying an entirely new, fully restored vehicle. While aftermarket reproduction tubs exist, a used OEM tub can often be found at a lower price point, especially if you’re willing to put in some elbow grease.
• Authenticity for Restoration Projects: For purists aiming for an authentic restoration, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) used tub is often preferred over new aftermarket reproductions. OEM tubs retain the original stamping marks, contours, and character that are vital for a period-correct build. This helps maintain the vehicle’s historical integrity and can even enhance its value.
• Foundation for Custom Builds: Beyond restoration, a used CJ5 tub serves as an ideal blank canvas for custom projects. Whether you’re building a hardcore rock crawler, a street-legal hot rod, or a unique overland rig, starting with a bare tub allows for complete freedom in design and modification without having to strip down an entire running vehicle.
• Availability and Sustainability: Despite the CJ5 being out of production for decades, a surprising number of tubs are still available, often salvaged from vehicles with irreparable frames or mechanical issues. Opting for a used tub is also an environmentally conscious choice, promoting recycling and reducing the demand for new manufacturing.

What to Look For: Critical Inspection Points for a Used CJ5 Tub

Finding a Jeep CJ5 used tub for sale is one thing; finding the right one is another. A thorough inspection is paramount to avoid unforeseen costs and headaches down the road.

• Rust: The CJ5’s Arch Nemesis: This is the most critical factor. CJ5s are notorious for rust, especially in areas where water and mud collect.
  • Common Rust Areas: Pay close attention to the floorboards (especially under the pedals and seats), hat channels (the structural supports under the floor that connect to the frame), body mounts (where the tub bolts to the frame), cowl areas (below the windshield), wheel wells (front and rear), rocker panels, and the rear corners/tailgate opening.
  • Types of Rust: Differentiate between surface rust (a reddish-brown coating that can be sanded off) and structural rust (pitting, holes, flaking metal that compromises integrity). Structural rust indicates the need for cutting out and welding in new metal.
  • Inspection Technique: Bring a small hammer or a screwdriver to gently tap suspect areas. A solid thud means good metal; a dull thud or a crunch indicates rot. Look for bubbling paint, which often hides underlying rust.



• Dents & Damage: While minor dents are expected on a used tub, significant impact damage, deep creases, or twisted panels indicate a more challenging and costly repair. Inspect the body lines for straightness. Look for signs of previous repairs like excessive Bondo (body filler) or poorly executed welds, which can crack or fail later.
• Structural Integrity: Beyond the hat channels, check the integrity of the roll bar mounting points, seat belt mounts, and any other stress points. Ensure the tub is not twisted or warped, which can happen in severe accidents. Place it on a flat surface if possible to check for rocking.
• Previous Modifications: Has the tub been modified? Look for cut-outs for larger tires, custom roll bars, or aftermarket seats. While some modifications might be desirable, others could indicate poor workmanship or compromise structural integrity.
• Completeness: Is the tub sold bare, or does it include components like the windshield frame, dashboard, steering column, doors, or tailgate? While a bare tub is common, having some original components can save you time and money.
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): While most tubs are sold without a VIN (as the VIN is typically on the frame), if the tub does have a VIN plate attached, ensure it matches any accompanying paperwork. This is crucial if you plan to use it for a vehicle that will be registered.

Where to Find Your CJ5 Used Tub: Sourcing Strategies

The hunt for a Jeep CJ5 used tub for sale can be an adventure in itself. Knowing where to look will significantly increase your chances of success.

• Online Marketplaces:
  • eBay: Offers a wide reach, but shipping large items like tubs can be expensive and complex. Look for sellers with good ratings and clear photos.
  • Craigslist/Facebook Marketplace: Excellent for local finds, allowing for in-person inspection and often eliminating shipping costs. Set up search alerts for your area.
  • Specialized Jeep Forums & Facebook Groups: Enthusiast communities are goldmines. Members often sell parts directly, and you can leverage their collective knowledge for advice. Examples include "Jeep CJ Parts For Sale" groups.
• Salvage Yards/Junkyards: Often overlooked, local and regional salvage yards can hold hidden treasures. Call ahead or visit in person; sometimes, a gem is buried under years of debris. You’ll often find better prices here, but the condition can be highly variable.
• Specialized Jeep Parts Dealers: Some businesses specialize in sourcing and selling used Jeep parts. While prices might be higher, these tubs are often pre-inspected, cleaned, and sometimes even partially restored, offering a higher level of confidence.
• Word of Mouth/Local Clubs: Network with local Jeep clubs, mechanics, and off-road shops. The classic car community is tight-knit, and someone might know of a tub sitting in a barn or a backyard.
• Donor Vehicles: Sometimes, the best option is to buy an entire rusted-out or mechanically defunct CJ5 for cheap, just to get the tub. You can then part out the rest to recoup some costs.

The Buying Process: Negotiation, Logistics, and Legality

Once you’ve found a promising Jeep CJ5 used tub for sale, the next steps involve careful negotiation, planning for transport, and ensuring a legal transaction.

• Inspection is Non-Negotiable: As stressed earlier, always try to inspect the tub in person. If not possible, request a video call walkthrough, numerous high-resolution photos from all angles (especially common rust spots), and ask direct questions about its history and condition.
• Pricing and Negotiation: Prices for a used CJ5 tub vary wildly based on condition, completeness, location, and seller urgency. A "basket case" tub might go for a few hundred dollars, while a solid, rust-free example could fetch several thousand. Be prepared to negotiate. Point out flaws you’ve identified to justify a lower offer. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right or the condition is worse than advertised.
• Shipping and Transport:
  • Local Pickup: Ideal. Bring a flatbed trailer, straps, and potentially a few strong friends.
  • Freight Shipping: If the tub is far away, freight shipping is your only option. Get multiple quotes. Factor in the cost of crating/palletizing (the seller might charge for this) and ensure the tub is securely strapped down. Shipping costs can easily run into hundreds or even over a thousand dollars, significantly impacting the overall project budget.
• Bill of Sale: Always get a written bill of sale, even for a tub. It should include the seller’s and buyer’s names, addresses, date, price, and a clear description of the item ("Jeep CJ5 tub"). If the tub has a VIN, ensure it’s noted on the bill of sale. While a tub generally doesn’t require a title (the frame usually carries the vehicle’s VIN), a bill of sale provides proof of ownership and can be important for registration purposes if you’re using it to build a new vehicle or replace a VIN’d tub.

Preparing Your Used Tub for Installation and Beyond

Acquiring a used Jeep CJ5 tub for sale is just the beginning. The real work begins with preparing it for its new life.

• Cleaning and Stripping: The first step is to thoroughly clean the tub. Remove all debris, old wiring, and anything loose. Consider sandblasting to strip away old paint, rust, and grime. This reveals the true condition of the metal and provides an excellent surface for new coatings. If sandblasting isn’t an option, chemical strippers and wire wheels can also work.
• Rust Repair and Metalwork: This is often the most time-consuming part.
  • Cutting Out Rust: Identify all rusted-through areas. Cut out the affected metal completely.
  • Patch Panels: Weld in new patch panels. You can buy pre-fabricated CJ5 patch panels for common areas (floorboards, hat channels) or fabricate them yourself from sheet metal.
  • Welding: Use appropriate welding techniques (MIG welding is common for sheet metal) to ensure strong, clean welds. Grind welds smooth for a professional finish.
  • Rust Converters/Encapsulators: For areas with surface rust that cannot be completely removed, or as a preventative measure, apply a rust converter or encapsulator before priming.
• Bodywork: After rust repair, address any remaining dents or imperfections. Use high-quality body filler sparingly, shaping it carefully to match the original contours. Sand the filler smooth, graduating to finer grits for a flawless finish.
• Primer and Paint: Apply a high-quality automotive primer to protect the bare metal and provide a good base for paint. Choose an epoxy primer for maximum rust protection. Follow with your chosen color coat and clear coat if desired.
• Undercoating/Bedliner: For long-term protection, especially if the Jeep will see off-road use, apply a durable undercoating or bedliner to the underside of the tub and potentially the interior floor. This adds a layer of protection against chips, abrasion, and future rust.
• Sound Deadening and Insulation: While not strictly necessary, adding sound deadening material and insulation to the interior floor and firewall can significantly improve ride comfort by reducing road noise and heat transfer.

Price Guide: Jeep CJ5 Used Tub For Sale

The price of a used Jeep CJ5 tub can fluctuate dramatically based on its condition, completeness, market demand, and geographical location. The following table provides a general estimate, but always remember to factor in potential shipping costs and the cost of necessary repairs.

Condition Category	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Description
Basket Case / Shell	$300 – $800	Heavily rusted, significant body damage, major structural repairs (e.g., entire floor, hat channels, body mounts) needed. Best for experienced fabricators and welders who enjoy extensive metalwork. Often stripped bare.
Fair Condition	$800 – $1,800	Moderate rust, some dents and dings. Will likely need patch panels for floorboards, hat channels, or specific common rust areas. Suitable for those with welding skills or willing to pay for moderate professional bodywork.
Good Condition	$1,800 – $3,500	Minimal surface rust, few minor dents. Structural points (body mounts, hat channels) are solid. Requires basic cleaning, minor bodywork, and prep before primer and paint. A good starting point for a less intensive restoration.
Excellent / Restored	$3,500 – $6,000+	Professionally sandblasted, rust-free, often primed or even painted. All repairs completed to a high standard. May include some original components (doors, tailgate, windshield frame). Represents a significant time and cost savings in terms of labor.
Additional Factors		Completeness: Tubs with doors, tailgate, or windshield frame included often fetch higher prices. Geographic Location: Tubs in dry climates (Southwest US) tend to be more expensive due to less rust. Seller Urgency: A motivated seller may offer a better deal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Jeep CJ5 Used Tubs

Q1: Is it always worth buying a rusted tub and repairing it?
A1: It depends on your skill level, tools, and budget. If you have welding and bodywork experience, a heavily rusted tub can be a very cost-effective way to get a solid foundation. If you plan to pay for professional repairs, a tub in better initial condition will likely save you money in the long run.

Q2: How much does it typically cost to ship a CJ5 tub?
A2: Shipping costs vary greatly by distance, carrier, and whether it’s residential or commercial delivery. Expect anywhere from $300 to $1,500+ within the continental US. Always get multiple quotes and confirm crating requirements.

Q3: Can I register a vehicle if I replace the original tub with a used one?
A3: Generally, yes. In most states, the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is stamped on the frame, not the tub. As long as your frame retains its original VIN and registration, swapping the tub is usually not an issue for registration. However, always check your local DMV regulations to be sure, especially if the replacement tub has its own VIN plate.

Q4: What are the essential tools needed for tub repair?
A4: For basic repairs, you’ll need a grinder, wire wheels, a drill, and basic hand tools. For rust repair, a MIG welder, cutting tools (angle grinder with cut-off wheels or plasma cutter), body hammers, dollies, and clamps are essential. Sandblasting equipment is highly recommended for paint and rust removal.

Q5: Are aftermarket reproduction tubs better than used OEM tubs?
A5: Aftermarket tubs are brand new, rust-free, and often come pre-primed. They offer a "plug-and-play" solution with less repair work. However, they are typically more expensive than used OEM tubs, and some enthusiasts prefer the authenticity and original steel quality of an OEM tub. Fitment can sometimes be a minor issue with aftermarket tubs, requiring slight adjustments.

Q6: How long does a typical tub restoration project take?
A6: This varies immensely based on the tub’s initial condition, your skill level, the amount of time you can dedicate, and your desired finish quality. A full restoration from a rusted tub to a painted, ready-to-mount state can easily take hundreds of hours over several months, or even a year or more, working part-time.

Conclusion

The journey of acquiring a "Jeep CJ5 used tub for sale" and transforming it into the heart of a restored classic or a custom off-road beast is one filled with challenges, learning, and immense satisfaction. It’s a project that demands patience, a keen eye for detail, and a willingness to get your hands dirty, but the rewards are immeasurable. From the thrill of finding that perfect rust-free gem to the pride of seeing your meticulously repaired and painted tub ready for assembly, each step brings you closer to reviving a piece of automotive history. By carefully researching, inspecting, and preparing your chosen tub, you’re not just buying a part; you’re investing in the spirit of adventure and the enduring legacy of the Jeep CJ5.