I picked up this LJ as a project for me and my daughter to work on together. Thought it’d be fun to fix up and take out on some trails. But once I started digging into it, I kept finding rust. Totally my fault for not checking it closer before buying. Luckily, it’s not too far gone to fix.
After a couple of weeks of work, it’s back on its wheels again. There’s still plenty of work to do before it’s trail-ready, but here’s what’s been done and what’s still on the list.
That LJ looks awesome. (I usually hate calling them LJs, but I’ll let it slide this time.) Those 35s look huge. For a second, I thought they were 37s. Maybe it’s because I’m used to seeing 17s. I’ve got 35x12.50R17s on Method 701s. You should think about adding some rocker guards or sliders.
@TerrainTrekker
Thanks! Rocker guards or sliders are definitely on the list. Not sure if I’ll buy them or make my own yet, but they’ll be going on soon. And yeah, the 15s do make the 35s look bigger.
Barrett said:
If the rust gets worse, you could always go for a new frame. It’s pricey but would give your LJ a fresh start.
Luckily, it’s not that bad. Most of the rust is on the crossmember where the rear shocks bolt in and a bit on the rear part of the tub near the EVAP stuff. I’ll probably replace or move that crossmember down the road, but it should hold up for now.