Used Jeep CJ7 Tub For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Finding and Restoring an Iconic Classic

Used Jeep CJ7 Tub For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Finding and Restoring an Iconic Classic jeeps.truckstrend.com

The Jeep CJ7, produced from 1976 to 1986, stands as a quintessential icon of American automotive history. Beloved for its rugged simplicity, go-anywhere capability, and timeless design, the CJ7 holds a special place in the hearts of off-road enthusiasts and classic vehicle collectors alike. While complete, road-ready CJ7s are increasingly rare and valuable, many enthusiasts embark on the rewarding journey of restoration. Central to this endeavor, often the most challenging component to source, is a Used Jeep CJ7 Tub For Sale.

The "tub" refers to the main body shell of the Jeep, encompassing the floor, firewall, cowl, inner fenders, and rear cargo area – essentially everything that sits on the frame and forms the passenger compartment. Finding a good quality used CJ7 tub is paramount for anyone looking to repair significant rust, replace a heavily damaged body, or build a custom restomod from the ground up. It’s not just about finding a piece of metal; it’s about acquiring the foundation upon which a legend can be reborn. This comprehensive guide will navigate the intricacies of locating, evaluating, and ultimately securing the ideal used CJ7 tub for your next project.

Used Jeep CJ7 Tub For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Finding and Restoring an Iconic Classic

Why Buy a Used CJ7 Tub? The Allure of Restoration

For many, the decision to seek a used CJ7 tub stems from a blend of practicality, passion, and preservation.

• Cost-Effectiveness: While aftermarket replacement tubs exist, they can be significantly expensive. A used tub, even one requiring some repair, often represents a more budget-friendly starting point, especially for those willing to invest sweat equity.
• Authenticity for Purists: For enthusiasts striving for an authentic restoration, a genuine factory tub is irreplaceable. It retains the original stamping, character, and often, the subtle imperfections that tell its story.
• Salvaging a Classic: Many CJ7s have succumbed to the elements, with their frames and drivetrains still viable but their tubs rusted beyond repair. Sourcing a solid used tub allows for the resurrection of a vehicle that might otherwise be scrapped.
• Foundation for a Custom Build/Restomod: For those dreaming of a personalized CJ7, a used tub provides a blank canvas. It can be modified, reinforced, and tailored to specific off-road or street performance requirements, offering a robust base for a unique creation.

Understanding the CJ7 Tub: Anatomy and Key Components

Before you begin your search, it’s crucial to understand the structure of a CJ7 tub and its common vulnerabilities. The tub comprises the floor pans, side panels, front cowl (where the windshield frame attaches), rear wheel wells, and the rear deck/tailgate opening. Key structural points include body mounts, roll bar mounting points, and seat mounts.

The most common enemy of a CJ7 tub is rust. Critical areas to inspect thoroughly include:

• Floor Pans: Especially under the driver and passenger footwells, and the rear cargo area.
• Rocker Panels: The horizontal sections below the doors. These are notorious rust traps.
• Body Mounts: Where the tub attaches to the frame. Rust here compromises structural integrity and alignment.
• Rear Wheel Wells: Both inner and outer surfaces, often collecting dirt and moisture.
• Cowl/Firewall: Particularly around the fresh air vents and where the windshield frame bolts on. Water ingress can cause significant damage here.
• Rear Corners and Tailgate Opening: Prone to rust due to water and debris accumulation.

Where to Find Used CJ7 Tubs for Sale

The hunt for a good used tub can be a quest, but knowing where to look significantly improves your chances.

• Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are popular starting points. Look for sellers in drier climates (Southwest US) where vehicles are less prone to rust. Facebook groups dedicated to Jeep CJ restoration or parts can be goldmines.
• Specialized Jeep Forums and Enthusiast Communities: Forums like JeepForum.com, Pirate4x4.com, or dedicated CJ-specific forums often have "for sale" sections where members list parts. These communities are invaluable for their knowledge and networking opportunities.
• Salvage Yards/Junkyards: While less common to find a good tub, it’s not impossible. Focus on older, rural yards that haven’t crushed all their vintage inventory. Be prepared for extensive inspection.
• Restoration Shops or Parts Dealers: Some businesses specialize in classic Jeep parts and may occasionally have reconditioned or solid used tubs in stock. They often charge a premium but may offer higher quality and easier logistics.
• Word-of-Mouth: Attending Jeep shows, local off-road events, or connecting with local Jeep clubs can lead to unexpected finds. Sometimes, the best deals are made through personal connections.

What to Look For: A Buyer’s Inspection Guide

Acquiring a used tub requires meticulous inspection. A poorly chosen tub can quickly turn into a financial black hole.

• Rust: This is your primary concern.
  • Surface Rust vs. Structural Rust: Differentiate between cosmetic surface rust (manageable) and deep, perforating structural rust (major repairs needed). Use a magnet to check for bondo over rust.
  • Tap Test: Lightly tap suspected areas with a small hammer. A solid thud is good; a hollow sound or a hammer going through indicates severe rust.
  • Common Rust Areas: Pay extra attention to floor pans, rocker panels, body mounts, rear wheel wells, and the cowl.
• Damage: Look for major dents, twists, or previous collision damage. Inspect any visible welds for quality; poor welding can indicate amateur repairs.
• Straightness/Alignment: The tub should sit square and level. Look for any signs of twisting or sagging, especially around body mounts or door openings.
• Completeness: While a bare tub is common, check if it includes the firewall, dash frame, or any other attached components. The more complete, the less you’ll need to source separately.
• Photos/Videos: If buying remotely, demand high-resolution, detailed photos from all angles, especially close-ups of common rust areas. Ask for video walk-arounds.
• In-person Inspection: Always the preferred method. Bring a flashlight, a magnet, and a small hammer. Take your time.

Pricing Your Used CJ7 Tub: Factors Influencing Cost

The price of a used CJ7 tub varies dramatically based on its condition and location. There’s no fixed price list, but here’s a general guide:

Condition	Description	Estimated Price Range (USD)
Project Tub	Heavily rusted with significant perforations in floor pans, rocker panels, and body mounts. May have collision damage. Requires extensive fabrication and welding skills. Often suitable only for experienced restorers or as a source of small patch panels.	$300 – $800
Repairable Tub	Moderate rust in common areas (floor, rockers, some body mounts) but generally solid structure. May have minor dents. Requires patch panel replacement and skilled bodywork, but not a complete rebuild. A good option for someone with welding experience or who plans to hire a fabricator.	$800 – $2,500
Solid Driver Quality	Minor surface rust or very small, isolated perforations in less critical areas. Minimal dents. Structurally sound. Ideal for a driver-level restoration or a custom build where perfection isn’t the goal. May need media blasting and epoxy primer to stabilize, followed by minor bodywork.	$2,500 – $4,500
Excellent/Rust-Free	Extremely rare. Minimal to no rust, very few dents or previous repairs. Often sourced from dry, arid climates (e.g., Arizona, California, Texas). This is the dream find for a high-level restoration, but it comes at a premium. May still require media blasting and proper paint preparation. Note: Be highly skeptical of claims of "perfect rust-free" without extensive proof.	$4,500 – $8,000+

Note: These prices do not include shipping costs, which can significantly add to the overall expense.

The Logistics of Purchase: Shipping and Handling

A CJ7 tub is a large, awkward, and relatively fragile item. Shipping can be a major hurdle and expense.

• Freight Shipping: For long distances, Less Than Truckload (LTL) freight is usually the only option. You’ll need to secure the tub to a pallet (often requiring a custom-built crate or frame) and ensure it’s protected.
• Crating/Palletizing: The seller typically needs to handle this. Discuss their capabilities and any associated costs. Ensure the tub is secured to prevent shifting and damage during transit.
• Local Pickup: If feasible, driving to pick up the tub is often the most cost-effective and safest option. You’ll need a large truck or a flatbed trailer.
• Insurance: Always insure your shipment against damage in transit.
• Forklift/Loading Dock: Be aware that freight companies often require a loading dock or forklift at both pickup and delivery locations. If not available, "liftgate service" can be arranged for an extra fee.

Restoration Considerations After Purchase

Once you have your tub, the real work begins.

• Media Blasting: Highly recommended to strip off old paint, rust, and filler, revealing the true condition of the metal.
• Rust Repair: This is where welding and fabrication skills come into play. Purchase quality patch panels or fabricate your own.
• Bodywork: After repairs, proper bodywork (filling, sanding, shaping) is essential for a smooth finish.
• Primer and Paint: Apply a high-quality epoxy primer to seal the metal and prevent future rust, followed by your chosen paint system.
• Undercoating and Rust Prevention: Consider applying a robust undercoating to the underside of the tub and inside the wheel wells for added protection.
• Sound Deadening: Many restorers add sound-deadening material to the floor and firewall for a quieter ride.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I put a CJ7 tub on a CJ5 frame?
A: No. The CJ7 has a longer wheelbase (93.5 inches) than the CJ5 (83 or 81 inches). The tubs are not directly interchangeable without significant frame modification.

Q: Is it cheaper to repair a rusty tub or buy a new aftermarket one?
A: It depends heavily on the extent of the rust, your fabrication skills, and the cost of local labor. For minor rust, repair is often cheaper. For extensive, structural rust, a new aftermarket tub might be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if paying for professional repairs.

Q: How much does shipping a tub usually cost?
A: Shipping costs vary widely based on distance, fuel prices, and whether liftgate service is required. Expect anywhere from $500 to $1,500+ within the continental U.S.

Q: Do used tubs come with a VIN?
A: Some tubs may still have the VIN tag attached (typically on the cowl). However, for a body swap onto an existing frame, the frame’s VIN is generally the legally recognized vehicle identifier. Consult your local DMV regarding re-bodying regulations.

Q: What’s the best way to protect a newly acquired tub from rust?
A: After media blasting, apply a high-quality epoxy primer to all surfaces (inside and out). Follow with topcoats and consider additional rust-preventative coatings like undercoating or bed liner on high-wear areas.

Q: Are all CJ7 tubs the same?
A: While generally interchangeable, there can be minor year-to-year differences, particularly in firewall components (e.g., heater box openings, pedal mounts) or dash configurations. Always verify compatibility if you’re matching to specific components from a particular year.

Conclusion

The search for a Used Jeep CJ7 Tub For Sale is more than just a transaction; it’s an investment in a passion project, a commitment to preserving automotive history, and the first step toward countless future adventures. While challenging, finding the right tub can transform a daunting restoration into a deeply rewarding experience. By understanding the anatomy of the tub, knowing where to look, conducting thorough inspections, and preparing for the logistics, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Embrace the hunt, be patient, and soon you’ll have the solid foundation upon which your iconic CJ7 will rise again, ready to conquer trails and turn heads for years to come.