1977 Jeep CJ5 Base Sport Utility 2-Door 4.2L

1977 Jeep CJ5 Description

I bought this 1977 CJ5 from the second owner a couple years ago. Both prior owners took wonderful care of the Jeep, and it arrived in great condition. At the time I believe it only had ~44k miles (currently has 50k). With that said, at the time she was a little underpowered for the highway. Since receiving I have made a couple of upgrades to successfully improve thedrivability:
Drivability Upgrades:

• Replaced 4.2 head with 4.0 (commonly known as "4.2 to 4.0 head swap" if you want to google)
• This swap also meant upgrading the intake manifold, and replacing the exhaust manifold with factory headers.
• Replaced old distributor with high energy ignition made by "Davis Unifies Ignition"
• Replaced the one barrel Cartercarburetor with a two barrel Motorcraft 2150.
• New "BDS": 2.5" lift springs, shocks, steering stabilizer
• New 30" tires (~5k mileage)

These upgrades made a huge difference in the way this Jeep drives. You won't win any races, unless you're racing a stock 258 ;-), but you'll no longer feel at odds with rush hour traffic. She drives straight, handles well (still be careful on those quick turns), and goes when you push down the pedal.
If you're wondering about off-road...I haven't been there with this old girl, but hear it feels great. We did take a few trips through about a foot of snow (before the roads were plowed) this past winter. The 4wd seemed to work just fine. I will say that one of the locking hubs was a little tight, and took a little more effort than it should have to get in place (i.e. it turns, but some servicing would probably be beneficial if you plan to go four wheeling, frequently).
I do want to note that there are a few blemishes in the paint and on the top. I've tried to represent those in the photos. There are also days when the Jeep can be finicky when starting, and you'll have to crank her a few times. This typically occurs when the temperature swings 30+ degrees and no choke adjustmenton the carb is made. Anyway, thought this would be worth noting if you're only used to fuel injection. There is a learning curve associated with the carburetor to get the most out of the old girl. With that said, If I were going to keep the Jeep, fuel injection would be next on the list. The 4.0 intake currently installed is ready for that upgrade. It would most likely add some powerand consistency.
Finally, I always like to know why someone is getting rid of their vehicle. I've spent so much time seeking improvement with this thing that it's become more like work and less what it was supposed to be... fun (let's be honest, the wife bitching about my Jeep hobbyhasn't helped). I'll probably regret letting it go now that I'm at the finish line, but my kid is into water skiing, and I guess I'll start looking for a new project. A boat sounds perfect...
Happy Bidding!