Topic: CJ front end swap on a YJ

[Jeffy]

i can't see any reason for which you would not be able to use your radiator. the YJ rad has 4 mounting holes on the sides and 2 brackets on top, even if the CJ opening is smaller the YJ rad mounting bracket on the driver's side is about 3'' wide (if not more) so i think would be enough room to drill new holes. if it hits anywhere you can get some spacers made out of aluminum square tubing, 1x1x3/16, they'll be light, cheap and look good. for the top brackets i don't see that being a problem. for the grill supports you might need to fab couple of 90 deg bracket if the CJ does not have them.

Well the problem I see is that with the notching, I might not have enough room to bolt a bracket to the grill.  I'm wonder if there is enough meat on the radiator to bolt an extension to the rear flange to be able to bolt it to the stock location.  I'll have to go outside and see how the radiator looks.

I also found out that the hood latches will need to be moved up 1" as they aren't as far back as on the YJ if I keep my fenders.

[Jeffy]

Well, it looks like I'll be going to look at the hood and grill on the weekend.  I'll probably jsut collect the parts and see what I want to do with them.  Either find someone to help me weld or else go all CJ with the radiator and fenders like Jesse.  I wasn't really looking for another project but the deal is too good to pass up really.

BTW:  1984-1985 CJ-7's used the AMC 2.5L so the hose should work.

[Jesse-James]

My radiator was for a 2.5L CJ and the lower hose was fine but I had to swap the upper as the connection is a tad bigger on the CJ.

[Jeffy]

My radiator was for a 2.5L CJ and the lower hose was fine but I had to swap the upper as the connection is a tad bigger on the CJ.

The problem was with your YJ upper hose though, right? (1" vs 1.5".) It would be easier for others to ask for the exact model and get the correct hose.

[Jesse-James]

Yes, the upper. Went to a local parts store and lined it up with the correct one. We have some good parts guys out here in farm country.

[Jeffy]

Yes, the upper. Went to a local parts store and lined it up with the correct one. We have some good parts guys out here in farm country.

Yeah, then a factory '84-'85 for a 2.5L should work.

I've been looking and it I might just end up buying an ebay aluminum radiator since they are so cheap. (under $140 shipped)  The hood seems to have a small crease or dent in it.  I was sent pics and it looks sort of like the the hood may have flipped up and hit the windshield frame.  Still $80 is a deal even with a dented hood, I think.


 

[jfrabat]

Oh, I know that dent by heart.  I can confirm that it, indeed, popped open while driving.  Dont ask why I know...