Used Jeep CJ7 Tubs For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Restoring a Legend
Used Jeep CJ7 Tubs For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Restoring a Legend jeeps.truckstrend.com
The Jeep CJ7 holds an iconic status in automotive history, a symbol of rugged freedom and off-road prowess. For enthusiasts, restoring or building a CJ7 is a labor of love, a journey to recapture that classic spirit. However, time, weather, and the rigors of off-roading often take their toll on the original body tub – the core steel structure of the vehicle. This is where the market for Used Jeep CJ7 Tubs For Sale becomes not just relevant, but essential.
A used CJ7 tub isn’t merely a piece of metal; it’s the canvas for your dream build, a vital component for preserving authenticity, or a cost-effective solution for a damaged original. Whether you’re undertaking a full frame-off restoration, replacing a severely rusted body, or embarking on a custom project, understanding the nuances of finding, inspecting, and preparing a used CJ7 tub is paramount. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through every aspect of acquiring and utilizing a used CJ7 tub, helping you breathe new life into an automotive legend.
Used Jeep CJ7 Tubs For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Restoring a Legend
Why Choose a Used CJ7 Tub? The Allure of Authenticity and Value
The decision to opt for a used CJ7 tub over a new aftermarket alternative is often driven by a blend of nostalgia, practicality, and financial considerations. While new steel or fiberglass tubs are available, a genuine used OEM tub offers distinct advantages:
- Authenticity and Originality: For purists, nothing beats the original factory steel. A used tub preserves the historical integrity and character of the CJ7, ensuring that your restoration remains true to its roots. The subtle curves, stamped details, and even the original spot welds contribute to an authentic feel that aftermarket tubs, no matter how well made, can sometimes lack.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Generally, a used tub in decent condition will be significantly cheaper than a brand-new aftermarket equivalent. This can free up budget for other critical components like the drivetrain, suspension, or interior, making your restoration project more financially feasible.
- Fitment and Compatibility: OEM tubs are designed to fit seamlessly with other original Jeep components, from the frame to the doors, windshield frame, and interior pieces. While aftermarket tubs have improved considerably, minor fitment issues can still arise, leading to frustrating adjustments during assembly.
- Availability (with patience): Despite the age of the CJ7, used tubs do come up for sale regularly, sourced from donor vehicles, unfinished projects, or parts cars. With a bit of patience and diligent searching, you can often find a tub that suits your needs.
Understanding CJ7 Tub Variations and Compatibility
While all CJ7 tubs share a common silhouette, there were minor variations throughout its production run (1976-1986) that are worth noting. Understanding these differences can prevent headaches during your build:
- Dash Panel Differences: Early CJ7s (typically 1976-1980) featured a more open, "flat" style dash, while later models (1981-1986) incorporated a more sculpted, plastic-heavy dash design. The tub itself has corresponding mounting points and cutouts. While adapting is possible, it’s easier to match the tub to your desired dash style or existing components.
- Tailgate Opening: Very early CJ7s might have slightly different tailgate hinge designs, though this is less common to encounter as a major issue.
- Body Mounts: While generally consistent, it’s always wise to double-check the condition and alignment of the frame-to-tub mounting points.
- Transmission Tunnels: While the overall floor pan is consistent, specific cutouts for shifters can vary slightly depending on the original transmission (e.g., T-150, T-18, T-4, T-5, automatic). This is usually minor and easily adaptable.
When sourcing a tub, consider the year of your donor vehicle or the components you intend to use. If you have an early-model dash, finding an early-model tub will simplify your build.
What to Look For: A Comprehensive Inspection Guide for Used CJ7 Tubs
The condition of a used CJ7 tub can range from virtually rust-free museum quality to a rusty shell needing extensive work. A thorough inspection is crucial to accurately assess its value and the amount of work required.
Key Areas to Inspect for Rust:
- Floorboards: This is the most common area for rust due to water, mud, and dirt accumulation. Check both the driver and passenger sides, especially under the pedals and seats.
- Hat Channels: These are the structural supports running across the underside of the floorboards, connecting the tub to the frame. They are notorious for trapping moisture and rusting from the inside out. Inspect them thoroughly, looking for swelling, flaking, or holes.
- Rocker Panels: The areas below the doors are highly susceptible to rust from road spray and trapped debris.
- Cowl and Windshield Frame Area: Rust can form where the windshield frame meets the cowl, especially under the cowl vent.
- Wheel Wells (Inner and Outer): Mud, water, and road salt can cause significant rust in these areas.
- Tailgate Opening and Corners: Water can collect here, leading to rust, especially in the lower corners.
- Body Mounts: Inspect the areas where the tub bolts to the frame. Rust here can compromise structural integrity.
Structural and Damage Assessment:
- Dents and Bends: Look for significant dents, creases, or signs of accident damage. Minor dents are fixable, but major structural damage can be a red flag.
- Previous Repairs: Examine any visible welds, patches, or excessive body filler (Bondo). Poorly executed repairs can hide underlying rust or structural issues and may need to be redone. Use a magnet to check for filler thickness.
- Straightness and Alignment: Step back and visually inspect the tub for any signs of twisting, sagging, or misalignment. Check the door openings – are they square? Does the tub sit level?
- Hardware and Mounts: Check the condition of all threaded holes for mounting components like the roll bar, seats, and dash. Stripped threads or rusted-in bolts can add significant work.
Inspection Tips:
- Bring a Flashlight: Essential for peering into dark corners and under structures.
- Bring a Magnet: Helps identify areas with excessive body filler.
- Take Lots of Photos: Document everything, especially flaws.
- Ask Questions: Inquire about the tub’s history, where it came from, and any known issues.
- Consider a Professional Opinion: If you’re unsure, or the tub is expensive, a qualified body shop or Jeep specialist might offer an inspection service.
The Buying Process: Where to Find and How to Purchase a Used CJ7 Tub
Finding the right used CJ7 tub requires patience and knowing where to look.
Sources for Used CJ7 Tubs:
- Online Marketplaces:
- eBay: Often has a selection, but shipping can be a major cost.
- Craigslist/Facebook Marketplace: Great for local finds, saving on shipping. Search broadly in your region and surrounding states.
- Dedicated Jeep Forums & Facebook Groups: Many enthusiast groups (e.g., "Jeep CJ Parts For Sale," "Jeep CJ7 Owners") have classified sections where members sell parts. These are excellent sources as sellers are often fellow enthusiasts.
- Salvage Yards/Junkyards: Call local salvage yards that specialize in older vehicles or 4x4s. You might get lucky and find a donor vehicle.
- Specialty Jeep Parts Dealers: Some businesses specialize in parting out CJs or restoring them. They might have tubs in stock, often already prepped or repaired, but at a higher price point.
- Word-of-Mouth/Local Classifieds: Let friends, family, and local auto shops know you’re looking.
Negotiation and Logistics:
- Negotiate Based on Condition: Use your inspection findings to negotiate the price. Minor flaws are leverage.
- Factor in Shipping: If buying remotely, shipping a full tub can be expensive (often $500-$1500+ within the US). Get multiple freight quotes before committing. Consider "hot shot" or independent transporters for potentially better rates.
- Local Pickup is Ideal: If possible, arrange to pick up the tub yourself with a trailer or flatbed. This saves money and ensures the tub is handled carefully.
- Payment: Use secure payment methods. For local transactions, cash is common. For remote, consider PayPal Goods & Services for buyer protection, or an escrow service for high-value items. Be wary of sellers demanding unusual payment methods.
Restoration and Preparation: Bringing Your Used Tub Back to Life
Once you’ve acquired your used CJ7 tub, the real work begins. The amount of effort required will depend entirely on its initial condition.
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Thorough Cleaning:
- Remove all loose debris, dirt, and old carpeting/insulation.
- Degrease the tub using a heavy-duty degreaser, especially the underside.
- Pressure wash the entire tub, inside and out, to remove all grime.
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Rust Remediation and Repair:
- Assess Rust: Identify all areas with surface rust, scale, or rust-through.
- Media Blasting: The most effective way to remove all rust, old paint, and bondo. This reveals the true condition of the metal. If professional blasting isn’t an option, use wire wheels, grinders, and rust removal chemicals.
- Patch Panel Fabrication/Installation: For areas with rust-through (floorboards, hat channels, rocker panels), you’ll need to cut out the bad metal and weld in new patch panels. These can be fabricated or purchased aftermarket. This step requires welding skills.
- Rust Converters/Encapsulators: For surface rust that can’t be blasted or for hard-to-reach areas, apply a rust converter or encapsulator after cleaning.
- Seam Sealer: Reapply seam sealer to all original seams to prevent water intrusion after welding.
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Bodywork and Straightening:
- Dent Repair: Use body hammers, dollies, and picks to straighten out dents.
- Body Filler: Apply minimal body filler to smooth out imperfections after metalwork. Sand thoroughly.
- Alignment: Check door openings, tailgate fitment, and general squareness. Make adjustments if necessary.
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Priming and Painting:
- Epoxy Primer: After all metalwork and bodywork are complete, apply a high-quality epoxy primer. This provides excellent adhesion and corrosion protection.
- High-Build Primer/Surfacer: Used to fill minor imperfections and provide a uniform surface for topcoat.
- Sanding: Sand between coats of primer to achieve a perfectly smooth finish.
- Topcoat: Apply your chosen paint color and clear coat.
- Undercoating/Bedliner: Consider applying an undercoating to the underside of the tub and/or a durable bedliner to the interior floor for added protection against rust, abrasion, and noise.
Challenges and Solutions When Dealing with Used Tubs
- Challenge: Hidden Rust: Often, rust is worse than it appears.
- Solution: Assume the worst. Budget for extensive rust repair. Media blasting is the best way to reveal all issues.
- Challenge: Shipping Logistics and Cost: Transporting a large, heavy tub can be difficult and expensive.
- Solution: Prioritize local pickup. If buying remotely, get multiple freight quotes and consider independent transporters. Be prepared for potential delays or damages during transit.
- Challenge: Finding the "Right" Tub: The perfect, rust-free, undamaged tub is rare.
- Solution: Be patient and realistic. You might need to compromise on condition and factor in repair work. Network within the Jeep community.
- Challenge: Repair Complexity: Extensive rust repair and bodywork require specialized skills and tools.
- Solution: Honestly assess your own skills. If you’re not proficient in welding and bodywork, budget for professional assistance or consider learning new skills through online tutorials and practice.
Price Table: Used Jeep CJ7 Tubs For Sale (Estimated Ranges)
Prices for used Jeep CJ7 tubs are highly variable and depend on condition, location, seller, and market demand. This table provides estimated ranges in USD, but always perform your own research and inspection.
| Condition Category | Description (Rust/Damage) | Estimated Price Range (USD) | Notes & Inclusions
