New to Jeeps looking for answers

Capt. Steve · 09-12-2004, 04:36 PM

Hi guys,

My name is Steve and I am from Michigan. I am looking for opinions on what jeep to purchase.

My wife and I intend on using it for trail riding, street running and bolting on a set of paddle tires for use at Silver Lake Sand Dunes. I would like to have a V8 or convert to a Chevy V8. I am also thinking of a tire size of 35's.

The problem I am having is what to buy as a base rig. A CJ 5 or 7 or a newer Wrangler. I am not sure what all the differences are as I am just starting to look into this project.

I would like to buy yet this fall so that I have all winter to work on it.

Any thoughts?

Thanks Steve

atxtj · 09-12-2004, 08:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Capt. Steve

Hi guys,

My name is Steve and I am from Michigan. I am looking for opinions on what jeep to purchase.

My wife and I intend on using it for trail riding, street running and bolting on a set of paddle tires for use at Silver Lake Sand Dunes. I would like to have a V8 or convert to a Chevy V8. I am also thinking of a tire size of 35's.

The problem I am having is what to buy as a base rig. A CJ 5 or 7 or a newer Wrangler. I am not sure what all the differences are as I am just starting to look into this project.

I would like to buy yet this fall so that I have all winter to work on it.

Any thoughts?

Thanks Steve

My uncle has a cj-7 that he uses for uphill drag races that has a 383 stroker in it. I think you'd have better luck with a cj. hth

Bowhunter46563 · 09-12-2004, 11:43 PM

I love my Cherokee. Had a ball in Silver Lake. We love it

Ross · 09-13-2004, 02:20 PM

I don't have much exp in sand but from what I have seen usually sand is higher speed. I would tink a longer wheel base would be better.

LoungeLizard · 09-17-2004, 11:33 AM

Longer wheelbase..............V8............. get a ZJ!

rockon1202 · 09-17-2004, 11:51 AM

CJ's can be found with V8's, but you'll be hard pressed to find a newer the YJ (87-95) or a TJ (97-) with a V8. The strongest stock engine the TJ comes with is a 4.0L I6, definitely capable enough for any off roading you'd be doing. If you wanted a TJ with a V8, you'd have to do it yourself or find one used that had a V8 dropped in by the previous owner. CJ's and YJ's have leaf spring suspensions, and the TJ has coilspring, giving it a smoother ride, and from what I can tell, better wheel articulation as well. Any of those three are a great choice though, very easily modifiable and rugged enough to take anything you throw at them. Good luck with your decision!!

09-17-2004, 11:33 AM	#5
LoungeLizard Registered User Join Date: Sep 2004 Posts: 113 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	Longer wheelbase..............V8............. get a ZJ!

09-17-2004, 11:51 AM	#6
rockon1202 Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Fort Riley, KS Posts: 285 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	CJ's can be found with V8's, but you'll be hard pressed to find a newer the YJ (87-95) or a TJ (97-) with a V8. The strongest stock engine the TJ comes with is a 4.0L I6, definitely capable enough for any off roading you'd be doing. If you wanted a TJ with a V8, you'd have to do it yourself or find one used that had a V8 dropped in by the previous owner. CJ's and YJ's have leaf spring suspensions, and the TJ has coilspring, giving it a smoother ride, and from what I can tell, better wheel articulation as well. Any of those three are a great choice though, very easily modifiable and rugged enough to take anything you throw at them. Good luck with your decision!!