I thought I would join in on this, even though I am still a newby. I just picked up an 83CJ - it does need some body work, but the engine is solid (rebuild 30K ago), and the transmission works like a charm. I have a hardtop for it, and a softtop (missing some clamps). The best story is that mechanics love to tinker with CJs and they are pretty straightforward. I use it for just banging around, so I don't care what the body looks like. the body is rough, but if you are using it for hunting a few months out of the year, I'd stick with a cheap CJ with body issues. Cover it with a tarp, and start it every few weeks. For $2-3K, its a great way to go.