1st Time Jeep Owner

[gmwillys]

The Jeep will be a walk in the park compared tot the power stroke. Great job in getting the diesel back in shape.

[Catlewis]

Jeep has a growing list of issues. Last evening I noticed both rear leaf springs have multiple broken leafs. Also one front spring has two broken leafs. Kaiser Willys has a complete kit with all four springs, shocks, U-bolts, etc. I'll probably get that to simplify things.

[bmorgil]

I used the full set of springs from KW. They worked out perfectly.

[Catlewis]

I'm a little concerned about "originality". I think Tuxedo Park models had a different spring pac as compared to typical jeep. I think they had fewer spring leafs for smoother ride??? Guess I could remove leafs from new springs to match original.

[gmwillys]

From what I've seen, there was two leaf springs offered in the Tux Park CJ5s. They had six leaf packs, but were dual rate, (softer) springs for a better ride. I didn't come up with an exact match, but the closest without going overboard is in the link below. They are Omix-Ada, so it isn't my first choice of springs. https://www.vintagejeepparts.com/pro...-Jeep-CJ5.html I would check around and see if you could have a set built to spec by a local shop to keep the correct ride.

[bmorgil]

The authority on leaf springs. https://www.eatondetroitspring.com/

[Catlewis]

GMWILLYS is correct, this jeep has front and rear six leaf packs. Not sure what is provided in the KW complete kit however still leaning that direction. Last evening I replaced the alternator + new belt and she now charges! Had a hard time locating an original style alternator. Finally found a NOS "Blue Chip" and it was a little spendy ($125.00). Still waiting on the radiator shop to call about the heater core and radiator. Also still waiting on the first order of parts from KW, supposed to be here tomorrow.

[Catlewis]

eatondetroitspring.com doesn't list "Jeep" in my model year? Checked a bunch of other years and only found Jeep Commando?

[bmorgil]

If you give them a call they usually can provide more information for you. I think they can make anything you want. They used to duplicate any spring. I have had custom springs set up by them for other vehicles.

[Catlewis]

Bmorgil, thanks for the tip on spring manufacturer!
Well, received the first shipment from Kaiser Willys last evening. One of the parts I ordered was the oversized replacement plastic glove box. Attempted a "test" fit last evening and the thing broke in half! The glue joint failed. It's totally over priced @ $86.00 for two pieces of plastic! Buyer beware! IMG_1313.jpgIMG_1313.jpg