This 1978 Jeep CJ-7 has been built up well past its factory configuration into a proper V8-powered trail rig. The CJ-7's longer 93.4-inch wheelbase, the feature that set it apart from the shorter CJ-5 when it debuted in 1976, gives this build extra room to work with, and the modifications here take full advantage of it.
Power comes from a 283 small-block Chevrolet V8 running long-tube headers, a well-worn swap path in the CJ world that trades the factory AMC inline six for a V8 with far broader aftermarket support and easier parts availability. Power steering keeps the front end manageable, and the rear axle runs 3.54 gears for a workable balance between trail crawling and highway driving.
Braking is power-assisted, with front discs and rear drums. The stance comes from 15-inch Cepek wheels wrapped in new 33-inch Mickey Thompson Baja MTZ tires, and a 12,000-lb winch is mounted up front for genuine recovery capability. A Best Top soft top keeps the CJ open to the weather when wanted.
Inside, new Corbeau seats replace the factory buckets, and a Bluetooth touchscreen radio with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay brings the cabin's electronics current without getting in the way of the build's off-road intent.
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