1978 Cherokee budget build

[svmcgover]

So I've always wanted an FSJ, namely a J-10 or Gladiator. But I recently found a pair of trucks that the price was too good to pass on. they were from two separate sellers, both less than 3 hours from my house.

both are 1978 Cherokee's

Tan one has a 360 with quadratrac. runs like a dog and has a rotted frame, but had a very solid body with no rust on the floor boards, great glass all around, fully loaded with great condition Levi's edition interior. was a mail truck, so driver's side is flawless.

Blue one has a 360 with a four speed. runs awesome and has a great frame, but had a terrible body and terrible interior in it.

... so you can probably figure out where I'm going with this build




what I've done so far:
- installed poly tank, and changed all fuel lines to carb and back
- tune up (plugs, rotor, oil, filters, etc...)
- fixed some electrical issues.

plans:
- address the rust issues (mainly by doing a body swap, and changing quaters
- new carpet
- mild lift with 31s
- rhino grille

[svmcgover]

So here's the interiors. as you can see... the tan one is in much better shape. don't mind the crazy pulley and pedal mess that go along with it being converted into a mail truck








interior pulled and cleaned

[jaber]

Nice find, congrats. Should be a nice ride when your done...

[svmcgover]

Thanks! I'm looking forward to the build, just needs to get warmer outside

[svmcgover]

So here's some things I've done so far, and what I plan on doing.

I replaced this nasty thing:



with this



I am trying a bunch of new things out of my comfort zone with this build including textile work and body work and paint. so here's my hand a being a seamstress. I sewed up the worst spot on the passenger seat




I bought some Pro Comps



to throw on these



also went to the junkyard to pick up a console from an old full size chevy. I was going to get one from a newer body style, but the curvy lines didn't look right, and this one has a lock as an added bonus. just needs some tan paint, and I think it will fit nicely when it's all done



and here's how I'd like to get my truck looking sooner or later