potential project 1979 CJ7 Jeep?

[pjz0001]

Sup people?

I was thinking about purchasing a 1979 CJ7 project Jeep to fix up over the next few years. I found a guy on Craigslist who is selling it for $1200. 304 V8 4x4 automatic. A lot of rust and a lot of body problems. States that the engine is ok. I haven't seen the Jeep yet. I asked the guy for more pictures since the ad said that it had a lot of rust. He said that the tub needs to be replaced, and judging by the pics he is not kidding.

I haven't seen the Jeep first hand. Wondering what people think about this idea. In particular if I should even schedule an appointment with him to see the Jeep or not.

I have seen tubs and replacement parts for this year Jeep. I was planning on doing this project over several years, so no rush on it. I was planning on putting in a replacement engine eventually like an Edelbrock or a Chevy short block. Who knows.

So, if you were me, would you buy this for $1200 or even bother going out to see the Jeep? Here are some pictures.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l282/phillipzayas/jeep1.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l282/phillipzayas/jeep2.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l282/phillipzayas/jeep3.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l282/phillipzayas/jeep4.jpg

[admin]

Hi pjz0001,

Well, that looks like a project that could certainly keep you busy for awhile! It IS a starting point, however, and it looks to be complete, even though it's kind of rough. And as you said, pretty much all of the body components are available. I would lean towards replacing as many of the rusted panels with new parts, rather than try to repair them (I've always disliked bodywork).

So what you need to figure out is whether or not this vehicle is worth not only the asking price, but also what you're going to have to put into it. If you're OK with all that, then I'd say go for it. It looks like it could turn out to be a fun project, and it's always cool to see the end result and compare the before and after photos.

The seller might even let it go for less than $1200. Offer him less and see what happens . . .