A new Project...81 CJ7 Laredo V8

[Cjwho]

So I have had the new toy home for a couple of weeks now and I wanted to take the time to post some pics and get some opinions.

It’s a 1981 CJ7 Laredo V8 with a 4 speed manual. It has some surface rust but no serious rust issues that I can find so far. I have changed all the fluids and installed new spark plugs and wires as well as a new cap and rotor. I ordered a brake kit for it and plan to install new brake components all around and then bleed the system. Once I have that done off comes that awful body lift and on goes a suspension lift which will be followed by new wheels. I am not going to do any serious off-roading with this jeep but would like to be able to trail ride and have all the goodies just incase I need them. I plan to drive it with the body like it sits all summer then but it in the body shop in the winter to have the body re painted and a new Laredo kit installed. So what do you guys think? Is this a good starting place for a first time jeep owner? Please take a look at the photos and tell me what you guys think. I want to do so much to it I really don’t know where to start!


http://s584.photobucket.com/albums/ss288/ldg62/

[caleb7mm]

nice cj!

tilt, air, new door panels! wish I had air

[SeaWulf]

looks like a good start for a new jeeper

welcome to jeepforum

[Cjwho]

Thanks guys. Too bad the air does not blow cold. Do you think it has any lift? Besides the obvious body lift. Need some opinions.

[Tigger01]

Looks like a 2 " body lift with no Suspension lift

I'm going with a 1" body lift a 2 1/2 suspension lift and 3/4 " with the Bigger Shackles

good tires though and a good start Welcome to the forum

[Cjwho]

Thanks. I was looking at the black diamond lift but I guess they are having problems with shipping. Does anything stand out to you guys about this jeep that I should do first. I have really been looking at the team rush upgrade but most of the write ups and pics are for the inline 6 not the v8.

[hold24]

I live a mile away from where you bought that jeep?......Looks like a good start... I wonder if it's an original v8....You can check by the vin#. If so, not to many laredo v8's running around. welcome to the forum and a never ending project.

[my84cj7]

Great looking jeep you have. Laredo's are my favorite, leave that thing black. Black CJ's are the best looking IMO. Good luck.

[Cjwho]

Yep I ran the vin and it is a original V8. Was that a rare combo for the year?

[flybo]

Yeah my first Jeep was a laredo, and wish I never would have sold it and it was always great to have a hard top!

[Cjwho]

I have been piecing the stereo together today and I have a question for you everyone. How do the 6x9 sounds wedges sound, the ones that install behind the seat on the roll bar. Thanks

[sgtbookie]

I live a mile away from where you bought that jeep?

Yea, as soon as I saw the first pick, I knew it was Cartersville. Love to go up to that shop from time to time and browse the Jeeps. I'm located a few exits down from you in Kennesaw. Welcome to the Jeep Family. If you start hunting for parts, and want the name of an extremely reputable guy I found on Craigslist that parts out CJs, let me know.

[pablorg]

Mine is also a 1981 CJ-7 Laredo V8... although I upgraded the original 304 for a 360. Not too many stock Laredo V8s hanging around...

[budblind]

CJWho,
That has the makings of a great rig.... But I am very concerned. You shop is much too neat and clean.
Great snag and Good luck.
Jon In Tucson

[Cjwho]

Well thanks for all the help. I will post pictures as projects come along. Sgtbookie i would love to get the contact info for the guy you know off of craigs list.