CJ Wheel Base

[nsamaster0414]

Hey guys, I'm a newbie to jeeps so bare with me. thanks.

My question is about jeep wheel bases. I have a 1979 CJ7 all stock. I would like to know how to widen my wheel base. I know I am going to have to get longer axles, but I cant seem to find any places online going into detail about how to do it. If you guys could help me out on this one, that would be great. Thanks.

http://www.media.delawareareacc.org/~nick/jeep.html <- This is a site of pics of my jeep, individual pics will soon be available.

 

[jps4jeep]

To "widen" your jeep, it is as simple as purchasing a set of full width axles, welding the proper perches and mounts to the axle, and bolt up. The problem arises thatthis in not street legal in most states as is. You need to cover those wheels with some type of flare. Another option would be to locate a (i think) 84-86 cj with the wider factory axles, will bolt right up, street legal and no welding.
You could simply use wheel spacer and space your wheels out farther from the hub, but not the best idea.

 

[BakedAlaskan]

How wide do you need it?? It would be cheaper and easier to get a set of rims with a better off set.

 

[nsamaster0414]

Thanks, I have an other question, are the 81-86 CJ's alxes solid or more heavy duty unlike mine? Or would it just be eaiser for me to order brand new axles designed for the 81-86 from a 4x4 parts supplier like 4WD?

Thanks.
Nick~

 

[Bounty__Hunter]

From a Scout, get the front and rear Dana 44's, they are wider than what you have now. You can also go with axles from a Wagoneer or Grand Wagoneer (SJ) as long as the rear diff is centered and the front diff is on the pass. side. The rear will likely be a HD AMC 20 that is much heavier than the CJ version and already has one piece axles. The front will be a Dana44.