1986 JEEP CJ-7 RESTOMOD
Chevy Small Block V8 350 • 700R4 Overdrive • Holley Sniper EFI • Frame-Off Restoration
Executive Overview & History
The 1986 model year holds a revered position in 4x4 automotive history as the final production year of the legendary Jeep CJ-7, concluding a celebrated ten-year production run before American Motors Corporation transitioned to the Wrangler YJ platform. Engineered on a 93.4-inch wheelbase—specifically designed by AMC to accommodate automatic transmissions and deliver superior highway stability compared to the short-wheelbase CJ-5—the 1986 CJ-7 represents the quintessential classic American open-air off-roader. While factory 1986 models left the Toledo, Ohio assembly plant equipped with utilitarian AMC inline engines, restrictive Carter carburetion, 3-speed transmissions, and narrow wheel tracks, this build represents a no-expense-spared transformation. Built through a meticulous, nut-and-bolt frame-off restoration, this vehicle combines timeless vintage Jeep character with modern powertrain engineering, electronic fuel injection, 4-speed overdrive capability, custom off-road armor, and modern air conditioning. With only 36,066 sorted miles driven post-restoration, this vehicle is completely dialed in, mechanically proven, turn-key reliable, and ready for immediate highway cruising, trail expeditions, or car shows.
Powertrain & Mechanical
1. Chevy Small Block V8 350 Conversion
Replaces the low-output factory AMC straight-six with the proven reliability, power band, and immense aftermarket support of Chevrolet's legendary Small Block V8 platform. Delivers crisp throttle response, muscular exhaust note, and ample low-end torque required for high-traction off-road situations and rapid highway merging.
2. Holley Sniper EFI & Electronic Management
Eliminates all cold-start difficulties, altitude tuning issues, and vapor lock associated with vintage carburetors. The onboard self-tuning ECU continuously analyzes air/fuel ratios via an integrated wideband oxygen sensor, creating dynamic fuel maps for optimal mileage and power across all weather and elevation ranges.
3. Complete Holley HyperSpark Ignition System
Features the matched Holley HyperSpark Distributor, dedicated capacitive discharge ignition box, and high-output ignition coil. This setup hands complete electronic spark timing control over to the Sniper EFI ECU. By eliminating mechanical advance weights and vacuum canisters, timing curves are precisely optimized, maximizing horsepower, improving fuel economy, and ensuring clean, total fuel combustion.
4. GM 700R4 4-Speed Overdrive Automatic
Engineered with an ultra-low 3.06:1 first-gear ratio for controlled, heavy-torque crawling, matched with a 0.70:1 overdrive top gear. The overdrive gearing drops highway cruising RPM significantly at 65–75+ mph, dramatically lowering cabin vibration, extending engine life, and maximizing fuel efficiency.
5. 20-Gallon Extended-Range Fuel Tank
Upgraded from the factory 15-gallon unit to a 20-gallon heavy-duty tank. Combined with the 700R4 transmission's overdrive gear and precise EFI metering, this CJ-7 delivers excellent range for long interstate road trips and extended days on remote backcountry trails.
Exterior, Armor & Chassis Construction
• Nut-and-Bolt Frame-Off Restoration: Every subassembly, body mount, suspension bushing, and grade-8 fastener was renewed. The frame, body tub, firewall, and undercarriage were stripped to bare metal, prepped, and coated to guarantee a 100% rust-free structural baseline.
• Vision Custom Wheels & Toyo Open Country R/T Tires: Fitted with a matching set of 5 Vision custom alloy wheels wrapped in brand-new Toyo Open Country R/T tires (size 305/70R17, ~34-inch diameter), including a full-size matching spare. The rugged terrain hybrid tread pattern combines aggressive off-road clawing traction with quiet, predictable pavement handling.
• Bushwacker Fender Flares: Bolted on all four corners to neatly cover the wider 305mm tire track, meeting road legality requirements, protecting sheet metal from rock chips and mud spray, and establishing an aggressive, muscular stance.
Cabin Comfort, Interior Protection & All-Weather Enclosure
• Professional Rhino Lined Interior & Hard Top: The complete interior tub floor pan and hard top are professionally coated in thick, durable Rhino Lining. This creates an impenetrable waterproof barrier that can be hosed down after muddy trail runs, while significantly reducing interior road resonance and cabin heat soak.
• Full Steel Doors & Matching Hard Top: Fully equipped with OEM-style full metal doors featuring integrated lock cylinders and manual roll-up glass windows, delivering tight weather seals, security, and quiet operation at high speeds.
• Integrated Air Conditioning: A/C system, transforming this rugged vintage 4x4 into an exceptionally comfortable daily driver.
Seller Terms & Inquiries
• Title Status: Clean title in hand, free of liens, ready for immediate transfer.
• Odometer Reading: 36,066 proven, reliable miles logged since full completion of the frame-off build.
• Viewing & Inspections: In-person inspection and test drive available by appointment for qualified buyers. Proof of funds or verified financing requested prior to road tests. (If you break it, you buy it)
• Logistics: Seller is available to assist with vehicle walk-around videos and coordination with licensed auto transport carriers at buyer's expense.
