My cherokee build

Besides doing the motor swap I had to tackle some gauge cluster issues, body damage, floor rot, ac install and my horrible attempt at painting. I also converted to a rhino grill in the mean time because the classic look appeals to me (no pics yet).

So some pics of the paint.

Then I got it home and started assembling it. First thing to tackle was the doors. It drove me nuts not being able to shut em. I cleaned up the triangle vent windows, polished em and installed new rubber. Installing them was just a whole not her nightmare but I got it done. Reinstalling the windows and door mechanisms was easy after that. I also installed Cali style mirrors because the tiny stock mirrors sucked balls and I really like the looks of the new ones. Got the doors adjusted too so they shut easily and line up at least as good as AMC did it.

Still have a metric ton to do, including the lift. My hands are killing me from polishing the chrome. I gotta remember to tighten the motor mounts, get driveshafts, make an exhaust, finish the tailgate (current project), install the painstakingly polished roof rack....

From here on out, posts will be more detailed since they'll be real time. I've got a boatload of deliveries coming so stay tuned.

Last pics are of the stupid stock roof rack I spent an entire day polishing. I was on baby duty so it took a bit longer than expected. Apparently babies make terrible polishing rags.

What happens if I dont want to join you in the shop when I can?

??

Its message on the whiteboard in your photos.

Hahahaha. I left that for the wife and kids one morning when I got out there before they woke up. The 5 yr old had been excited to work with me so I didn't want him to think I left him behind.

Will be watching this build, good stuff. Any plans or upgrades for the m20? Been daydream planning a cherokee/wagoneer build with a turbo 6.0, 6 speed manual, some day...

Keep it coming, looks like a good start for sure.

Not at this point. I'll save the tinkering and hp hunting for the 6.0 I'm putting in the hotrod.

So I spent the day today installing my new rear window mechanism and crank handle. What a pain in the ass that was. Good lord I hope I never have to go back into the guts of the tailgate.

I also got the roof rails and roof rack installed as well as the upper door panel mounts. The mounts got riveted and was a 5 minute job to wrap up the day.

Best thing I ever bought was a cheap buffer/polisher from eastwood and one of their compound kits.

This is the windshield trim off my Wagoneer. I even used it for the bumpers.

How do you think it would work for wheels? Would they be too awkward to get up in there and do a good job? I’ve got a set I’m refinishing, and would rather use something other than a drill with that will cup thingy to polish them.

It would kick your ass! Variable speed grinder FTW.