With 58,000 miles showing on its odometer, the bulletproof mechanical components should allow this 1986 Jeep CJ-7 Renegade to offer its new owner years of reliable service. However, that may not be its greatest attribute, because life in favorable climates means that it remains rock-solid, with no rust or other issues. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Barney for spotting the Jeep listed here on Craigslist in North Dallas, Texas. The seller set their price at $30,000 for this final-year classic.
Jeep produced the CJ-7 between 1976 and 1986, and this Renegade rolled off the line in the final year. Ordered by its first owner in Olympic White, the seller claims that it retains 90% of its original paint. Unsurprisingly for a vehicle of this type and age, there are cosmetic imperfections. The paint is chipped in several lower locations, with the bare steel developing surface corrosion. Because they were unwilling to compromise the vehicle’s survivor credentials, the seller treated the corrosion to prevent deterioration, but didn’t apply fresh paint. Whether it remains that way will depend on the buyer’s focus on originality. However, the panels are straight, and having split its life between Texas and California, the Jeep is rust-free. The top and glass are in good condition, and the Renegade rolls on its original White steel wheels.
The Jeep’s interior represents motoring at almost its most basic. Rubber mats protect the painted floors, and the new owner won’t receive air conditioning or a radio. However, the seatcovers are in good condition, with the back seat appearing to have rarely seen occupants. The paint is pretty tidy, as is the pad. It might not be luxurious, but the interior is undeniably practical. The seller provides no engine bay shots, but confirms that the first owner teamed a 258ci six-cylinder engine with a four-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The six might only produce a factory-quoted 112hp and 210 ft/lbs of torque, but its strength rests in its low-end delivery, allowing the CJ-7 to crawl across harsh terrain with the motor barely ticking over. The seller confirms that the transmission received a specialist rebuild around 2019, and that the four-wheel drive system works as it should. The tires are old, and the seller recommends replacing them. Otherwise, potential buyers should consider this classic a turnkey proposition that runs and drives well. The seller doesn’t mention evidence verifying their mileage claim, but the presentation makes the figure plausible.
The Jeep CJ-7 proved a successful model, selling in impressive numbers worldwide. However, all things must end, with the last examples rolling off the line in 1986. This final-year CJ-7 Renegade is a wonderful survivor, and lifting its appearance would be easy and inexpensive. The seller’s price is near the market’s top end and might be slightly optimistic given the existing paint flaws. However, the mileage claim could offset this if it is verifiable. If you’ve ever owned a CJ-7, did you enjoy it enough to consider buying another? If so, could this one be a contender?
If you’re into off-roading, or maybe a light duty plow candidate 💁♂️