1977 | Jeep CJ-5

Highlights:

• "Levi's Edition" special order "Golden Eagle"
• Original paint
• Conversion to 5.7L engine and automatic transmission

Brand & Model History:

The history of the CJ5 begins with the Willys MB, the original military Jeep developed for the U.S. military during World War II. The Willys MB was known for its durability and versatility, playing a crucial role in the war effort by transporting troops and equipment over rough terrain.

After the war, Willys-Overland, the manufacturer of the military Jeep, recognized the potential to convert this successful vehicle into a civilian version. Thus, in 1945, the Willys CJ-2A was born, the first "Civilian Jeep" (CJ), designed for farming and civilian use. In 1964, the CJ5 version was introduced and was produced for 30 years. Over the years, several special models were released.

Condition:

This 1977 CJ5 is, according to the owner, a "Levi's Edition" with a special order "Golden Eagle." Since its delivery, it has only had three owners. The first owner wanted a "Golden Eagle" model but without the eagle on the hood, so he ordered the Jeep as a custom build to his specifications. The stripes on the hood and the small eagle graphics on the front fenders are still the originals from the AMC factory. The factory options on this Jeep include: tachometer, clock, tilt steering column, sport steering wheel, power steering, front disc brakes, padded dashboard, and fender flares. The VIN tag with the paint code "99" Special Order Custom Color and the code "6CG" for the tan Levi's bucket seats confirms the Levi’s Edition. It originally had a 304 V8 engine with a 3-speed manual transmission. It was sold new at "Don Shreve" in Rochester, NY, and then made its way to Phoenix, AZ. The second owner bought it in 1981. Ten years later, he installed a 1974 Chevy 350 V8 (2-bolt main) and a Turbo 350 automatic transmission. For the clean conversion, Advance Adapter (transmission/transfer case adapters and engine mounts) were used. The engine was faithfully rebuilt, except for a Cam-Dynamics Energizer camshaft, which provides good low-end torque. The engine and transmission came from a 1974 Chevy Malibu station wagon with low miles. The "350" emblems come from this donor vehicle. When this conversion was done in 1992, emissions regulations were already in mind, so a custom single exhaust system with a small catalytic converter was installed. Since the conversion, only about 18,000 miles have been driven. Numerous receipts confirm the engine build and conversion. Custom-made Appliance aluminum wheels in the Centerline style were installed in 1981.

The entire vehicle still shines in its original paint. Even the frame still has the original coating. The rear bumper with tow hitch was installed in the early 1980s. The chrome front bumper and all other chrome accessories were also added in the early '80s.

The fuel tank and fuel sending unit were recently replaced. The front and rear leaf spring shackles are also new. All lights and gauges work perfectly.

Market Positioning:

The Jeep CJ5 is considered a milestone in the history of off-road vehicles and influenced many later SUVs and off-road models. It represents the essence of the classic off-roader and is still known and loved today for its simplicity, ruggedness, and off-road capabilities. It continues to be produced in an almost unchanged form as the Wrangler.

Summary:

This Jeep CJ5 is a very special vehicle. Vehicles in such authentic condition with original paint and original decals have become rare. The professional conversion to the larger engine and automatic transmission, along with the vehicle's history, is well-documented. With fresh TÜV and an H-license plate, this unique off-roader is ready for its next adventure.