Can You De-Modernize the JT?

[PyrPatriot]

Is it possible to tear down and re-build the JT without so much technology? Folks put in new engines, axles, etc. Could you take just the frame and body, and put in an older engine, transmission, etc.? I love older mechanical cars, like from the 70s. Down the road, like when the JT is 30-50 years old, I'd want to strip it down and make it less of a headache to work on.

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[RavensEyeOffroad]

Is it possible to tear down and re-build the JT without so much technology? Folks put in new engines, axles, etc. Could you take just the frame and body, and put in an older engine, transmission, etc.? I love older mechanical cars, like from the 70s. Down the road, like when the JT is 30-50 years old, I'd want to strip it down and make it less of a headache to work on.

Im sure you could.

 

[TennesseePA]

Im sure you could.

but why would you want to? Seems more reasonable to me to build an older truck from the start.

 

[RavensEyeOffroad]

but why would you want to? Seems more reasonable to me to build an older truck from the start.

I didnt say it would be ideal just that it could be done.
Be 100% easier to just get a k5 blazer to build.

 

[Ichthus]

One problem you’ll run into is street legality. In many states you can’t legally put an older engine into a vehicle due to emissions and CAFE standards. Also, the tech is so embedded with sensors throughout that are required for operation...I don’t know where you’d be able to stop and leave the stock parts.

Ultimately, what you’d probably need to do is start with something older that has a similar wheelbase, swap a JT body and bed onto it, then build out a custom interior.

There have been some pretty crazy project Jeeps out there that, conceptually, arrived at a similar place, but for different reasons. For example, I think MCE built a JKU while retaining little more than the frame. Used an Aluminum tub and body, Custom interior, drivetrain, etc.

 

[Hootbro]

Anything can be done given enough time and money, but it begs the question if you should do it at all? As already mentioned, there is regulatory and emission issues you will run into if you want to make it street legal.

Of all the vehicles out there, the aftermarket will be supporting the Wrangler and by association, the JT for many decades into the future and I would not let the fear of technology support let one lose sleep over it.

 

[PyrPatriot]

but why would you want to? Seems more reasonable to me to build an older truck from the start.

I really like the looks of the JT

One problem you’ll run into is street legality. In many states you can’t legally put an older engine into a vehicle due to emissions and CAFE standards. Also, the tech is so embedded with sensors throughout that are required for operation...I don’t know where you’d be able to stop and leave the stock parts.

Ultimately, what you’d probably need to do is start with something older that has a similar wheelbase, swap a JT body and bed onto it, then build out a custom interior.

There have been some pretty crazy project Jeeps out there that, conceptually, arrived at a similar place, but for different reasons. For example, I think MCE built a JKU while retaining little more than the frame. Used an Aluminum tub and body, Custom interior, drivetrain, etc.

My idea is to literally strip EVERYTHING off to the frame and body. Then put in stuff from the 70s into it. I see plenty of historic cars on the road. Even the Ford Model T around here.

The JT would complement this when I eventually put it in my garage
https://lexington.craigslist.org/ctd/d/tomball-1950-willys-jeep-truck/7004825827.html

 

[Rokon]

I really like the looks of the JT

My idea is to literally strip EVERYTHING off to the frame and body. Then put in stuff from the 70s into it. I see plenty of historic cars on the road. Even the Ford Model T around here.

The JT would complement this when I eventually put it in my garage
https://lexington.craigslist.org/ctd/d/tomball-1950-willys-jeep-truck/7004825827.html

The problem will be the Vin # and complying with what that incurs. Easy with something old but most states (all?) the JT will 2020 + forever.

 

[PyrPatriot]

The problem will be the Vin # and complying with what that incurs. Easy with something old but most states (all?) the JT will 2020 + forever.

I'll keep that in mind. I don't foresee the VIN being a problem since it can stay on the frame and body.

 

[Fcmalie]

I'll keep that in mind. I don't foresee the VIN being a problem since it can stay on the frame and body.

It will have to meet emissions and safety standards for a 2020+ model year vehicle, which is tied to the VIN. Honestly I think you can get this truck with the least ammount of modern options on any new truck.

 

[PyrPatriot]

It will have to meet emissions and safety standards for a 2020+ model year vehicle, which is tied to the VIN. Honestly I think you can get this truck with the least ammount of modern options on any new truck.

Then how do people who swap engines and such pass that requirement? By changing the engine and such you change the safety specifications. And what about the option to disable safety features (as options from the mfg)? Doesnt that change the safety standard? Interesting things to ask an attorney in government auto regulations. Something to keep in mind when the project starts

 

[carpenkl]

Then how do people who swap engines and such pass that requirement? By changing the engine and such you change the safety specifications. And what about the option to disable safety features (as options from the mfg)? Doesnt that change the safety standard? Interesting things to ask an attorney in government auto regulations. Something to keep in mind when the project starts

Most don't ask permission, they ask for forgiveness (or try not to get caught)

 

[Heinoceros]

Then how do people who swap engines and such pass that requirement? By changing the engine and such you change the safety specifications. And what about the option to disable safety features (as options from the mfg)? Doesnt that change the safety standard? Interesting things to ask an attorney in government auto regulations. Something to keep in mind when the project starts

There is an age cutoff in most states, so if you use a 20 or 25 year old car, you can pretty much do what you want. On newer cars if you can get the OBD2 system to report back with no codes, most inspectors wont know enough about it to fail the car just because of the swap (people use sensor simulators to fake out the computer when they remove the catalytic converters etc). It gets harder and harder the newer you go. I dont know how the 2020 scanners work but i bet its more than just zero codes anymore. For a while in the 90's they actually would hook up a device to your tailpipe that registered the emissions directly. That was a bitch. back then you had to straight up bribe inspectors or know someone.

 

[Trippin01]

Order a Plain Sport with no add ons. That is way low tech compared to a Rubicon.

 

[TheSolarWizard]

People that swap motors in modern times do so with motors that can legally count as a same or newer model year engine, like a certified crate motor for example.

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