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Crist Clapper
04-08-2014, 07:38 PM
Meet: Desiree - This will be my second Jeep restoration. I'll do stock where ever I can and use my NOS(New-Old-Stock) resources as needed. I find the challenge rewarding. Enjoy the ride!

Background: I had been seeing this XJ around town the last year or so and it always caught my eye. To my surprise it appeared in the parking-lot of my church. Yes she belonged to a church member, he had recently inherited it. Always been in his family with all the documentation from time of delivery. He offered to sell it to me... I accepted. The journey began!

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Presentation1_zps67cd233e.png

Crist Clapper
04-08-2014, 07:42 PM
Day 1:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Left_Front111_zpsf005b3f3.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Back_zps9a0ccb14.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Passengers_zps9261f242.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Drivers_zpsec6f4eea.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/passengers1_zpsa3a516ad.jpg

4.3LXJ
04-08-2014, 08:28 PM
So pretty. Just like show room

Hopkins
04-08-2014, 09:57 PM
The condition is amazing! You are very lucky to have found such a jewel!

Brasscatz
04-09-2014, 08:31 AM
I don't think I've ever seen one so pretty!

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S4 because my microwave couldn't do it

Crist Clapper
04-09-2014, 08:37 AM
I searched a bit and could not find any other restorations of a Wagoneer XJ. If anyone knows or finds any... I would appreciate knowing. Thanks!

NW99XJ
04-09-2014, 08:39 AM
I love the Wagoneer XJ's!... Just something about the stacked headlights upfront....
That should have been a more common theme with the Cherokees.
But THAT particular Jeep my friend... is stunning!
Doesn't look like much is needed to restore it!... it's damn near perfect as is....

Crist Clapper
04-09-2014, 08:45 AM
Thanks for all the comments! The start condition makes the restoration easier for sure.

Crist Clapper
04-09-2014, 08:47 AM
I've been collecting NOS stuff... Here's my stash!

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/XJStuff010_zps8e80a609.jpg

EekGirl96
04-09-2014, 09:09 AM
Wow, thats a clean XJ....you got yourself a steal!!!
Cant wait to see the build on this, what are your plans?

Crist Clapper
04-09-2014, 05:23 PM
Honestly I'm working on updates/postings here to get caught up to the current status.

Basically I am dismantling D short of removing the engine and undercarriage stuff. Mileage is 83k. I've had the engine/transmission/etc., serviced and everything seems mechanically sound.

Then paint, apply new woodgrain, and reassemble!

Just that easy! :drinking:


Wow, thats a clean XJ....you got yourself a steal!!!
Cant wait to see the build on this, what are your plans?

Crist Clapper
04-09-2014, 05:43 PM
The tear-down begins...

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_3445_zps6c5ef3aa.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_3390_zpsf2283d0d.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_3388_zps49ced79b.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_3444_zps0ef8e93e.jpg

Crist Clapper
04-09-2014, 05:56 PM
Ready for paint!

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_3826_zpsdfbc7e31.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_3828_zps52126d7d.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_3823_zpsc9fcbec5.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_3824_zps2ef6037b.jpg

Crist Clapper
04-09-2014, 06:16 PM
D is home with the woodgrain applied!

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/2_zpsf3bb190e.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/99_zps4b5c5c96.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/98_zps652295c1.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/22_zps53e71b52.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/97_zps677ae374.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/23_zps2fef8af8.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/19_zps1677747a.jpg

Crist Clapper
04-09-2014, 06:21 PM
Found the build-sheet under the carpet:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/XJBuildSheet_zpsb29d1a87.jpg

XJ Wheeler
04-09-2014, 06:47 PM
Wow man! That's thing was nice already, but gonna be brand new now! Good luck with the resto.

Sent via messenger pigeon - i talk, he types.

Rocco83
04-09-2014, 07:28 PM
That thing was so beautiful did it need restored?

Crist Clapper
04-09-2014, 08:17 PM
I understand. It would for sure do just fine as a daily-driver. Sometimes its just a feeling that it has to be done. :D


That thing was so beautiful did it need restored?

Crist Clapper
04-09-2014, 08:21 PM
BIG HELP NEEDED: I have most of the engine stickers reproduced... But have been unable to get photo(s)/size(s) any door-jam/lift-gate stickers. Help?

bluedragon436
04-10-2014, 12:23 AM
That was already a pretty clean ride you got to start with, so very lucky on that.. look forward to seeing it once it is all done!!

Crist Clapper
04-11-2014, 05:00 PM
Some more NOS stuff...

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/XJNOSSTUFF_zps070c15a2.png

Crist Clapper
04-11-2014, 05:05 PM
Found it... Re-created it... Off to the printer!

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/DoorVIN_zpsbf89b586.gif


BIG HELP NEEDED: I have most of the engine stickers reproduced... But have been unable to get photo(s)/size(s) any door-jam/lift-gate stickers. Help?

bigjim350
04-11-2014, 05:06 PM
If your gonna replace the tail lights, will you sell me the old ones?

Crist Clapper
04-11-2014, 05:12 PM
I'll keep it in mind!


If your gonna replace the tail lights, will you sell me the old ones?

Crist Clapper
04-11-2014, 05:18 PM
By far my best NOS find... Stored away for 25 years... Complete set of seat covers:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/JeepLimitedupholstrya2_zps40bfb813.jpg

bluedragon436
04-11-2014, 05:22 PM
Found it... Re-created it... Off to the printer!

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/DoorVIN_zpsbf89b586.gif

Did you print that on sticker stock, or is it still on paper??

Crist Clapper
04-11-2014, 05:23 PM
http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Untitled_zps9f3329a9.jpg

Crist Clapper
04-11-2014, 05:36 PM
I searched high/low for polished chrome Wagoneer and JEEP badges... No luck. So I had others (re)-chromed:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Jeepdetailed1968GTXpaneltl0012_zps85848524.jpg


http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Untitled_zps9f3329a9.jpg

Crist Clapper
04-11-2014, 05:59 PM
I created it/them in Power-Point and email to a local print-shop.


Did you print that on sticker stock, or is it still on paper??

Pookapotamus
04-11-2014, 06:16 PM
Just frickin' gorgeous!!!

Which I had some NOS contacts for some if the hard to find pieces on mort!

Crist Clapper
04-11-2014, 06:34 PM
I created it/them in Power-Point and email to a local print-shop.

Here are the stickers I already have applied (except seat-belt)... I'll get photos of the engine-bay.

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Labels/SSS_zps5124e593.png

Crist Clapper
04-13-2014, 04:37 PM
The woodgrain trim was tan... Painted. On the back of some of the peices were remnants of woodgrain... A surprise to me! Couldn't locate a complete set of NOS... And would have been a bit too pricey anyway... Had them redone using Water Transfer. Turned out great and are very durable with a top clear-coat applied.

Before:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_39792_zps51c6599f.jpg

After(s):

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_00000542_zps08f306a3.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/IMG_00000543_zpsbdb5669b.jpg

bruggz351
04-13-2014, 09:38 PM
Day 1:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Left_Front111_zpsf005b3f3.jpg

I absolutely love the wagoneer front.
How does the four headlights perform, compared to the single 7" of a standard XJ?

I wonder what it would cost to ship that header panel, complete with headlights and grill to Australia?:p

p.s. Lovin by the way, I have a massive soft spot for a woody, be it fair dinkum or vinyl.

cheers

Crist Clapper
04-14-2014, 06:32 PM
Maybe someday I can work up-to a real wood Woody!

As far as the headlamps... Haven't drove it a night as yet.

Thanks for the look! :D


I absolutely love the wagoneer front.
How does the four headlights perform, compared to the single 7" of a standard XJ?

I wonder what it would cost to ship that header panel, complete with headlights and grill to Australia?:p

p.s. Lovin by the way, I have a massive soft spot for a woody, be it fair dinkum or vinyl.

cheers

Crist Clapper
04-26-2014, 06:40 PM
Undercarriage sand-blasted and POR'd:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/011_zpsbb956b4f.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/012_zpsccd39867.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/013_zps13962c76.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/014_zpsa10abebc.jpg

Crist Clapper
04-26-2014, 06:42 PM
Front-end removed, scrubbed, sanded, re-painted... Preparing for the grill:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/010_zps7f7422d1.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/009_zps5bec8156.jpg

Crist Clapper
04-26-2014, 06:48 PM
Under-the-hood:

1) Old insulation removed
2) Exposed metal painted black
3) New fasteners & cable-clips
4) Plugs in any unused holes
5) NOS under-hood retractable lamp installed

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/000_zpsac1b4c45.jpg

4.3LXJ
04-26-2014, 07:32 PM
Man, that is getting just too shiny :D

Rocco83
04-26-2014, 07:34 PM
Do you drive these when they are done or put them in a museum. Something old and in pristine condition would scare me to drive.

Brasscatz
04-26-2014, 08:12 PM
beautiful work! Man, this is an awesome project

Crist Clapper
04-26-2014, 08:34 PM
1) Power-washed
2) Replaced all hose-clamps with stainless-steel clamps (many were rusty) with appropriate sizes (no long tails)
3) Replaced all wire-wraps
4) Removed, cleaned, sanded, painted front-cover-plate over radiator
5) New battery/tray/hold-downs, and terminal-covers
6) Wire-looms replaced/added (various sizes)
7) Rubber-caps put on exposed bolt-heads
8) New stickers applied

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/001_zpsc8b7d370.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/002_zps485859e8.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/002a_zps992ddadc.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/003a_zpsc963ff8a.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/003b_zps0ef6068a.jpg

bluedragon436
04-26-2014, 08:44 PM
Are you hitting up the stealerships for all the NOS stuff?? Going to be looking for the coolant and washer fluid bottles, and would love to pickup a NOS retractable under hood light for my XJ..

Crist Clapper
04-26-2014, 09:19 PM
Are you hitting up the stealerships for all the NOS stuff?? Going to be looking for the coolant and washer fluid bottles, and would love to pickup a NOS retractable under hood light for my XJ..
I have various resources... I actually traded for the engine-lamp. The best advice I can provide is start with the part number. So many of these parts have superseded part numbers which are available with a call to a dealer. Then with the additional information of superseded the search begins! eBay, Google, etc., ... Go deep on Google... Many finds near the end of the search results. Warning: This (NOS) stuff often don't come cheap! :D

Mudderoy
04-26-2014, 09:46 PM
Undercarriage sand-blasted and POR'd:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/011_zpsbb956b4f.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/012_zpsccd39867.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/013_zps13962c76.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/014_zpsa10abebc.jpg

So pretty! :popcorn:

bruggz351
04-26-2014, 10:12 PM
Goddam man. I've never, never seen an XJ anywhere near as clean as that. I hope you're putting it in a glass box. :-)

Sent from my HTC_PN071 using Tapatalk

Crist Clapper
09-21-2014, 06:23 PM
New wheels:

1) Refurbished/refinished rims
2) Gorilla lug-nuts (lifetime), extra-long to make more of an appearance
3) New center-caps
4) Chrome valve-stems
5) Turned the white-walls out

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/IMG_5121_zps45d05b57.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/IMG_5124_zps830320dc.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/IMG_5119_zpse01bfe66.jpg

4.3LXJ
09-21-2014, 06:31 PM
So, does it go to the car show when done?

XJ Wheeler
09-21-2014, 07:10 PM
Looks museum worthy, maybe an AMC museum! :D Great work Crist! Not gonna be another one nicer by the looks of it.

Crist Clapper
09-21-2014, 07:10 PM
So, does it go to the car show when done?

I've never felt the urge... Then never say never!

4.3LXJ
09-21-2014, 07:12 PM
They have classes for restorations, anyone welcome

Crist Clapper
09-21-2014, 07:17 PM
They have classes for restorations, anyone welcome

They?

4.3LXJ
09-21-2014, 07:31 PM
The various hot rod shows all over the country. They have meets from local to the national meets in Mich. In fact there is one that meets down the street in a park. I have three friends that enter their vehicles every year. All with Jeeps

XJ Wheeler
09-21-2014, 07:49 PM
Even if it has to go into the 4x4 class you can definitely go. I've entered mine in several.

Crist Clapper
09-21-2014, 08:00 PM
Oh geez... Dummy me. Class as in classification/group. Not teach(ing) a class... :crazy:

autotech98
09-24-2014, 05:46 PM
Awesome job man!

Crist Clapper
11-28-2014, 07:32 PM
Making some progress...

Got the fender-flares back on... New mounting-brackets. I didn't like the painted flares sitting directly on the woodgrain... So I applied U channel rubber-stripping in-between.

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/F.jpg

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/FF.jpg

autotech98
11-28-2014, 08:06 PM
Sweet !!!!

bluedragon436
11-28-2014, 08:18 PM
Those new remanufactured rims look good... and the rubber stripping does look good, not to mention protecting the wood grain at the same time...

4.3LXJ
11-28-2014, 08:20 PM
Looking really good

XJ Wheeler
11-29-2014, 02:42 AM
Looking VERY nice! This thing is gonna be one of the nicest XJs in the country!

Crist Clapper
12-06-2014, 06:15 PM
I didn't like the underside of the bumpers... Rough-edges, manufacturing-marks, holes. So I covered the area with a heavy-vinyl(adhesive-backed) material.

BEFORE:
http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/CoverBefore.jpg

AFTER:
http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/CoverAfter.jpg

XJ Wheeler
12-07-2014, 04:46 AM
Very clean! Nice work.

Sent via messenger pigeon - i talk, he types.

Crist Clapper
12-19-2014, 07:29 PM
FRONT END

NOS stuff:
- Grill
- Parking lamps
- Fog lamps
-
After-market:
- Headlamp surrounds / Lens
- Bumper end caps / guards
- Bumper insert (black)

Restored/polished:
- Chrome trim above grill

Enhancements:
- Covered exposed areas under headlamps
- Loom to cover fog lamp wires
- New headlights

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/DDD003_zps4cfe5dc5.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/DDD005_zpse39febf5.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/DDD002_zpseabe4b5a.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/DDD009_zps8ba81f7b.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/DDD010_zps5501a1be.jpg

bluedragon436
12-19-2014, 07:40 PM
She's coming along nicely!!

autotech98
12-19-2014, 08:02 PM
I have to agree lookin sweet !

Crist Clapper
01-24-2015, 07:12 PM
Turning a useless cut-out into storage:

BEFORE:
http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/XJInterior010.jpg

AFTER - The bottom section will be attached and hinged...
http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/XJWorkingProgress035.jpg

AFTER - So the top section can be pulled open...
http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/XJWorkingProgress037.jpg

Carpet and finger-pull to be added later.

Crist Clapper
01-24-2015, 07:43 PM
New OEM Hitch:

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/XJWorkingProgress010.jpg

autotech98
01-24-2015, 08:25 PM
Nice work love the storage idea

Crist Clapper
01-25-2015, 06:12 PM
Small stuff...

Covered the plastic bumper filler/shield with textured-vinyl:

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/XJWorkingProgress030.jpg

Crist Clapper
01-25-2015, 06:55 PM
I have sent-out the first interior panel to be covered - I intend on covering all the interior plastic. For the purists... I use double-faced tape so the panels can be restored to original:

1) NOS matching fabric across the top
2) New carpet (to be wrapped)
3) Top of carpet and around latch-cover to be bound/stitched

If this works... I'll have the other panels done too!

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/XJInterior.png

Crist Clapper
01-25-2015, 07:04 PM
NOS Headliner has arrived! Need to have it covered in a matching Tan material:

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/XJHeadliner.jpg

Crist Clapper
03-14-2015, 09:07 PM
Gas-fill-surround:
http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/Woodgrain%20Wrap%2001.jpg


Door-jam-trim:
http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/Woodgrain%20Wrap%2002.jpg

bluedragon436
03-14-2015, 09:13 PM
Everything is coming along nice, even those small details that most wouldn't even bother with... (and there is def nothing wrong with that)...

4.3LXJ
03-14-2015, 11:12 PM
Looking pretty shiny there Crist

Carves
03-15-2015, 12:05 AM
Looks really good .. :cool:

Is the FSJ in the background treated as carefully too ??

Crist Clapper
03-15-2015, 09:20 AM
Looks really good .. :cool:

Is the FSJ in the background treated as carefully too ??

Yeah... That's Delilah. She's a bit full of herself these days... Delilah was Ms. January in a 2015 all-Jeep calendar. She gets jealous of all the attention Desiree is getting right now. It's a fine-balance of attention between siblings! :love0007:

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/Delilah%20Ms.%20January.jpg

4.3LXJ
03-15-2015, 09:58 AM
That is better than they looked new :eek:

Carves
03-16-2015, 06:02 PM
Yeah... That's Delilah. She's a bit full of herself these days... Delilah was Ms. January in a 2015 all-Jeep calendar. She gets jealous of all the attention Desiree is getting right now. It's a fine-balance of attention between siblings! :love0007:


Nice rig .. :thumbsup:

If she gets too uppity, tell her she has a fat butt .. compared to Desiree .. :D

Crist Clapper
03-16-2015, 06:30 PM
Nice rig .. :thumbsup:

If she gets too uppity, tell her she has a fat butt .. compared to Desiree .. :D

:smiley-laughing021::mad0029::smiley-laughing021:

Poorboy
03-18-2015, 08:20 PM
Undercarriage sand-blasted and POR'd:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/011_zpsbb956b4f.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/012_zpsccd39867.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/013_zps13962c76.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20THE%20BUILD/Engine%20and%20Undercarriage/014_zpsa10abebc.jpg

The underside is just as pristine as the tops side. Did anyone catch the uber rare D44 Third member? Is it equipped with the Trac-Loc LSD?

Crist Clapper
01-12-2016, 05:08 PM
Re-starting my winter project...

Below are merchants I've used with great success:

1) http://www.glassrestorationinc.com/how-to-find-us.php I sent my driver's door glass (you know the one that always gets scratched)... Deep scratches gone... Looks like new and I preserved all matching glass logos/etching.

2) http://atlantahydroimaging.com/ Woodgrain-wrapping - Professional, good-communicators, flexible on changes/modifications.

3) http://www.julianos.com/seat_belts.html Sent my old worn-out seat-belts/buttons/casings... Came back all-matching like new!

4.3LXJ
01-12-2016, 06:00 PM
Thanks, I could use one of those links

Crist Clapper
01-18-2016, 07:35 PM
Here's whats I know...

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/Sentry1_zpswriudr8i.png

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/Sentry3_zpsusqsnzwl.png

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/Sentry%20Wiring_zpswqfxhxtz.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/Sentry_zpsdaamo56r.jpg

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/IMG_6711_zps4rnia9ps.jpg

So... Although I don't have the sensors connected... At least I can reassemble the dash.

Crist Clapper
01-22-2016, 08:42 PM
A good friend who is always on the look-out for me... Found this hard-to-find rear air-deflector (blade). The material is a brushed-aluminum. It is currently at the paint-shop where is will be coated/painted/sanded to a smooth finish to match the OEM paint/finish; Including the mounting-brackets and screw-covers.


http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20014_zps9vjcutvk.jpg

Crist Clapper
02-03-2016, 09:39 PM
This is probably more for me... But I gotta share... :rant: For months I have been looking for the OEM radio as defined on my build-sheet/Star-network. Now you're going to say it should have been obvious, and it was sort-of... The code from the build-sheet was “RAG” (AM/FM 6-CD MP3 Radio). The "MP3" is the tell.

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20Build%20Sheet%203_zpsvbsp6ttc.jpg

A very nice gentleman (Thanks Lee!) did additional research and found the correct code is "RAS" (AM/FM/Cassette).

Now you-all most likely know there are many models that fit our classic Jeeps. The combination I was looking for, besides the AM/FM/Cassette, was no-clock (one is enough), and power-antenna lead... And NOS of course! :D

Here it is:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/s-l500_zpsbx7fm2os.jpg

Manufactured date 1983... Complete with the AMC logo.

:woot:

Crist Clapper
12-25-2016, 08:31 PM
These are unique to the XJ Limited... So it may not be interesting to all.

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p535/MyWaggy/Slide1_zps2qbu7sff.png

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p535/MyWaggy/Slide3_zpsfk6l8tsg.png

Black overlay material:
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p535/MyWaggy/222Untitled_zpsc1uvx6bt.png

Crist Clapper
12-29-2016, 07:56 PM
Getting ready to install the radio... No Plug-N-Play on this one!

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/RADIO%20WIRING_1.png

bluedragon436
12-29-2016, 10:08 PM
Still coming together nicely!! Keep up the awesome work Crist!!

Crist Clapper
01-21-2017, 06:29 PM
A good friend who is always on the look-out for me... Found this hard-to-find rear air-deflector (blade). The material is a brushed-aluminum. It is currently at the paint-shop where is will be coated/painted/sanded to a smooth finish to match the OEM paint/finish; Including the mounting-brackets and screw-covers.


http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20014_zps9vjcutvk.jpg

Back from the paint-shop and installed... Top. Bottom is what the before looked like.

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/Air%20Deflector_1.png

4.3LXJ
01-21-2017, 07:36 PM
I didn't even know that was an option for an XJ

XJ Wheeler
01-21-2017, 10:34 PM
Is that a WK srt8 in the background?

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

Crist Clapper
01-22-2017, 09:52 PM
Yes it is... Good eye!


Is that a WK srt8 in the background?

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

Crist Clapper
01-22-2017, 09:56 PM
The underside is just as pristine as the tops side. Did anyone catch the uber rare D44 Third member? Is it equipped with the Trac-Loc LSD?

Can't say I know the answer to this one...

Crist Clapper
01-24-2017, 07:30 PM
Door-edge-guards are covered in a Hydro-Graphics wood-grain finish. I removed the brown rubber-like finish first. One note... I had the rear-set re-done as the normal way to lay the transfer is lengthwise... Which went against the Ni-Noc grain. Re-done to go with the grain.

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/IMG_0222.jpg

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab291/clapperc/IMG_0223.jpg

XJ Wheeler
01-27-2017, 11:48 PM
Nice touch! And very envious of that srt8! If I had the money, it's one of my top daily drivers I'd want.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

jonb8
02-01-2017, 06:00 AM
Awesome attention to detail, It's nice to see someone restore a piece of art....

Crist Clapper
02-10-2017, 08:54 AM
After an exhaustive unsuccessful search for an OEM fob… Here is my solution:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/Capture%202_zpsopcdktxr.png

Wiring diagram:

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/New%20Keyless_zpsbd4crxcs.png

Crist Clapper
02-22-2017, 05:59 PM
A long time coming… But the first interior panel is done. Out with old plastic stuff!

http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/111IMG_0338_zpscb5te6ft.jpg

Crist Clapper
08-09-2017, 06:48 PM
Fall is nearing and I hope to re-start this project soon. In the meantime... I have collected two additional NOS parts:

Center-floor-console:
http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20Console%202_zpshi6y0sib.jpg

Rear-cargo-cover:
http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20Cargo%20Cover_zps6582dfxw.jpg

denverd1
10-19-2017, 12:03 PM
Fall is nearing and I hope to re-start this project soon. In the meantime... I have collected two additional NOS parts:

Center-floor-console:
http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20Console%202_zpshi6y0sib.jpg

Rear-cargo-cover:
http://i1174.photobucket.com/albums/r620/TheClassicCove/XJ%20Cargo%20Cover_zps6582dfxw.jpghow did you find a mint cargo cover? somebody making them?

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk

Crist Clapper
10-19-2017, 06:28 PM
how did you find a mint cargo cover? somebody making them?

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk

No one making them in this OEM color that I know of... Got mine from eBay.

Crist Clapper
12-14-2017, 10:53 AM
Not all bumper-guards are created equal. And by-the-way... Neither are bumpers! Although I didn't document it... I purchased/returned many rear-bumpers before I got one to match/fit. Apparently, the rear-bumper of a Wagoneer-XJ is different than a Cherokee-XJ.

I also purchased/returned many after-market rear bumper-guards... None fit well... Gave-up and compromised.... Until now.

Note: I was only able to find NOS of the right-rear bumper-guard… As a result… The search for after-market.

I went back to where I purchased the only rear bumper that fit... Lo-and-behold… They sell left and right bumper-guards just like the parts catalog shows. Pooh on the one-size-fits-all. Below documents the journey.

Crist Clapper
12-22-2017, 06:26 PM
ACC Essex Carpet.

At first... I couldn't distinguish between the folds, creases, crevices, or contours! It seems there is a lot of excess carpet around the edges. Not a bad thing! But a lesson-learned shared.

Will need to remove the side-panels and do some trimming.

Crist Clapper
12-31-2017, 07:06 PM
Eighteen hours later... I'm close to being done. Best lesson learned was… Fit the wheel-wells first. It became obvious that since the carpet started flat… Then molded… The widest “fitted” width are the wheel-wells. Once I figured this out… The nip/tuck began! By far I spent the most time fitting around the spare-tire hardware… As it seems the carpet was molded without this in mind.

14338

4.3LXJ
12-31-2017, 07:13 PM
That looks very nice. New front and back carpets are on my list too.

Pookapotamus
01-01-2018, 10:13 AM
Soooo jealous!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

4.3LXJ
01-01-2018, 04:10 PM
But Dana, it isn't yellow!

Pookapotamus
01-01-2018, 09:51 PM
Meh, I could fix that! Besides it’s beautiful just the way it is! [emoji7]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Crist Clapper
01-05-2018, 06:51 PM
If you're a purest... Skip this update! lol

The cargo-strips are ready to re-install... But how to-do?

When I had the chrome polished... I had three holes punched in each piece.

My plan, although not tested, is to lay a piece of Masonite under the carpet and attached the cargo-strips to it.

Stay-tuned!

14343

4.3LXJ
01-06-2018, 10:12 AM
Waiting for more. I have the cargo strips and for the life of me I don't know how they are attached

Crist Clapper
01-08-2018, 07:04 PM
Sent out the set to be re-webbed... Looks good to me!

14344

Crist Clapper
01-10-2018, 06:08 PM
Resources:

1) Remove those nasty scratches in the driver's-door-window: http://www.glassrestorationinc.com/ (I wanted all glass-stamps to match - No OEM available)

2) Badge/Emblem Re-chroming: Bill Petrow @ [email protected]

3)OEM NOS Upholstery Material: originalauto.com @ 586-727-2486

4) HydroGraphic Woodgraining: Atlanta HydroGraphics @ 678-513-9909

5) Wheels/Rim Restoration: www.wheelcollision.com

6) Seatbelts: Joe @ [email protected]

4.3LXJ
01-10-2018, 07:05 PM
I see you have all the contacts. I think I might have to take advantage of the upholstery material for the wife's car

XJ Wheeler
01-12-2018, 07:36 PM
Crist, I think you very well may have the nicest XJ in the country, er world with all this work you've put in. To go so far as to have the glass stamps match. That's attention to detail I can definitely appreciate! Awesome job!

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

4.3LXJ
01-12-2018, 07:38 PM
Makes me wonder what his next Jeep will be.

Crist Clapper
01-12-2018, 09:27 PM
Crist, I think you very well may have the nicest XJ in the country, er world with all this work you've put in. To go so far as to have the glass stamps match. That's attention to detail I can definitely appreciate! Awesome job!

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

Nice to hear... Thanks.

Crist Clapper
01-12-2018, 09:28 PM
Makes me wonder what his next Jeep will be.

Me too! lol

Crist Clapper
01-14-2018, 08:12 PM
Door-panels are back from the upholsterer:

14345

Crist Clapper
01-14-2018, 08:30 PM
If you're a purest... Skip this update! lol

The cargo-strips are ready to re-install... But how to-do?

When I had the chrome polished... I had three holes punched in each piece.

My plan, although not tested, is to lay a piece of Masonite under the carpet and attached the cargo-strips to it.

Stay-tuned!

14343

Lined-up one row and the others laid out nicely:

14346

4.3LXJ
01-14-2018, 08:55 PM
How did you attach those cargo strips?

Crist Clapper
01-15-2018, 06:25 PM
How did you attach those cargo strips?

Details: When I had the cargo-strips polished, I also had three holes punched into each strip. Carpet over the Masonite and laid-out the strips. Used a hole-punch to open the carpet for screws, six-strips, seven-inches apart. I added nuts as spacers under the strips, so they didn’t disappear into the carpet. Screws were oval-head with finishing-washers.

Crist Clapper
02-03-2018, 07:40 PM
Was a concept... Now done:

Door-hinged and turn-lock/catch. Door/panel covered with http://americanfoamco.com/product/ez-flex-i-ii/

I used the same NOS fabric from the door-panels on the top-sill of the side cargo-panels - Foam under fabric to add depth.

14362
14363

Crist Clapper
02-03-2018, 07:51 PM
One down... Three to go. Need more clips... Ordered... Waiting.

14364

Crist Clapper
02-03-2018, 08:15 PM
Cargo-strips attached. Cargo-hooks installed. Cargo-net installed. Cargo-cover installed. Spare-tire cover... Almost installed... Needs to sit in the sun when the weather warms up to stretch better over the tire. E-Z Flex carpet covering the sill.

14365

XJ Wheeler
02-04-2018, 01:11 PM
Looking beautiful!

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

4.3LXJ
02-05-2018, 01:47 PM
Very nice. That was door fabric you were using? Where did you get it?

Crist Clapper
02-05-2018, 05:14 PM
Very nice. That was door fabric you were using? Where did you get it?

Great resource: http://originalauto.com/

4.3LXJ
02-05-2018, 05:19 PM
Thanks

Crist Clapper
02-26-2018, 08:45 PM
This is a do-over of the first panel...

Stock:
14386
I made a 3/8" wood frame to fit inside the blue-lines. Which allowed me to remove those two weird tail-ends at the top. Then had a straight-edge instead of the rounded-edge to butt the new carpet up to.


New Panel:
14385
Replaced speaker-grates to match front-door speaker-grates; Re-painted to match interior color.

Flex-carpet wrapped around and under the edges. Standard-carpet in the center. FYI: I used 3M-tape to adhere materials to the plastic.

NOS fabric across the top; Vinyl-edging to match.

From experience... I find the plastic-clip hold-downs hard to work with. Therefore, I replaced them with screws/finishing-washers.


New "JENSEN" tags... I sent a sample to an online merchant who re-created them for me:
14387


Hardware: Screws, "JENSEN" tags. And the plugs I inserted into the holes in the lift-gate to secure the screws.
14384

Crist Clapper
03-20-2018, 09:05 PM
A bit of a repeat... Some finishing touches. Door-handles/chrome-plates on front-panels. Added speakers in the rear-panels.

4.3LXJ
03-20-2018, 11:02 PM
Have you been getting plastic parts re chromed?

Crist Clapper
03-21-2018, 08:17 AM
Have you been getting plastic parts re chromed?

So far... The only plastic re-chroming I've had done are a few of the exterior-badges. Others, like the chrome back-plates on the doors, are New-Old-Stock.

Crist Clapper
03-21-2018, 08:43 AM
The Seats/Seat-covers are back from the Upholsterer. A reminder the skins were New-Old-Stock stored in a climate-controlled warehouse for the last 30-years. They were quite the subject of chat at the Upholstery-shop! 14412

4.3LXJ
03-21-2018, 08:51 AM
Very nice

Crist Clapper
04-26-2018, 08:28 AM
... is a pain! Intermittently, the door-lock would not operate. Traced all the wires and checked all the connectors... No fix. Finally, found one pin on the connector to the door-lock relay was slightly pulled-out... Fixed!


So then... I decided I wanted fade-on/fade-off courtesy-lamps. Here's what I installed:


(4-seconds fade-on / After doors are closed, a 6-second hold-on, then a 4-second fade-off)
https://i.imgur.com/KkPhDvG.png





Here's how it is connected:
https://i.imgur.com/zHUoWqP.png

XJ Wheeler
04-26-2018, 12:19 PM
Didn't even know how easy that could be done. That's awesome!

Crist Clapper
04-27-2018, 09:00 PM
Just had to do it...
https://i.imgur.com/pNNu5dt.jpg


The lens:
https://i.imgur.com/XTzsCkz.png


The sockets:
https://i.imgur.com/UAj2CSg.png


The bulbs:
https://i.imgur.com/EK6oRUs.png


These are useful little things... Connect in-line to control lamp/light brightness:
https://i.imgur.com/OjHM8RJ.png


Another useful item... Unlike a traditional bit, this bit does not pull carpet. Then, drill a hole in the door-panel metal-frame to accommodate the socket:
https://i.imgur.com/TvBoyXG.png

Crist Clapper
11-19-2018, 08:01 PM
Back in the garage working again...

Over the years the screws that hold the trim on the door-edges are either missing or the screw-holes were different sizes. As a result, I have various size screws with various size screw-heads. Then, where the woodgrain wraps around inside the door with an unfinished end.

So... I covered it all with a a piece of weatherstripping.


14619

4.3LXJ
11-20-2018, 12:21 PM
Great work as usual

Crist Clapper
11-20-2018, 08:16 PM
It seems most of the used lift-gate sill-plates had scratches in the same place. I even purchased a NOS that then scratched in the same place.

Concluded that the latch in the lift-gate with too tight to the sill-plate. So... I cut-out around the latch, then covered the sill-plate with flex-carpet; And lined the opening with the same adhesive-back material I put between the bumper and gap.

Crist Clapper
12-12-2018, 08:32 PM
The dash is now reassembled. Radio in (power-antenna operational), and face-plate installed.

Then... I stood-back and could still see some of the wiring under the dash. Used a piece of corner-molding and covered it with flex-carpet... 3M taped to the underneath.

Then... Time to cover the black separator between the upper and lower dashes. Attached a filler between screw-heads to level (see below), then covered with black-molding. Used a heat-gun to contour around the edges and around the side to cover-up the seam (see below).1463314634

4.3LXJ
12-13-2018, 10:27 AM
Very nice. I just painted my screws black LOL

Crist Clapper
12-14-2018, 07:32 AM
Very nice. I just painted my screws black LOL


:cool:

Crist Clapper
12-14-2018, 08:32 PM
Interior panels are covered with flex-carpet and ready to be installed:

jonb8
12-22-2018, 04:13 PM
Jeep porn for sure..... Great looking jeep

Crist Clapper
02-02-2019, 07:35 AM
In search of the right power-seat-bezel - NOS or virgin condition... Help?

Example:

Crist Clapper
02-15-2019, 07:49 PM
Covering the plastic-parts is time-consuming. A lot of trial and error. I still have fine-tuning to do. In the meantime... Here are some pictures of the progress:

4.3LXJ
02-15-2019, 08:01 PM
Nice work

Pookapotamus
02-17-2019, 02:52 PM
So clean! So jealous!!! :o

Crist Clapper
03-03-2019, 08:17 PM
Doing some fine-tuning... Was not happy with the seams.

The solution:

14692

Mudderoy
03-07-2019, 01:12 AM
Interesting. I don't think most people would have noticed, but I tend to focus on the little things as well.

Mudderoy
03-07-2019, 01:12 AM
Covering the plastic-parts is time-consuming. A lot of trial and error. I still have fine-tuning to do. In the meantime... Here are some pictures of the progress:

I'd make everyone take their shoes off before coming in!

Crist Clapper
03-08-2019, 05:16 PM
Interesting. I don't think most people would have noticed, but I tend to focus on the little things as well.
:thumbsup:

Crist Clapper
03-08-2019, 05:35 PM
I'd make everyone take their shoes off before coming in!

:rolleyes:

Crist Clapper
03-31-2019, 07:18 PM
14715

Crist Clapper
02-09-2020, 07:19 PM
Getting re-started again...



This is a little-thing... But a lot of detail... And a bit boring too...:indifferent0020: The corners/tips of the lift-hatch were broken-off. Could have just hid them behind the woodgrain-trim... But the broken-tips would still be visible from the underside. Will later fit them to my lift-hatch.14837148381483914840148411483714838148391484 014841

4.3LXJ
02-10-2020, 01:05 PM
Nice fix

Crist Clapper
09-18-2022, 07:56 PM
Wanted to extend the roof-rack end-caps:

1) Original end-cap
2) Prototype - Bondo/spray-primer
3) 3D of Prototype (UPS store)
4) 3D sanded and Covered with chrome Vacucoat (https://www.researchgiant.com/metallizing-clinton-township-mi-48035/)
5) Doorhandle gasket
6) Doorhandle gasket trimmed to fit under end-cap extension

The take-a-way is Vacucoat is just as shiny as chrome, but at a fraction of the cost of re-chroming.

149551495614957

Mudderoy
09-26-2022, 08:12 AM
I lost mine (or one) a couple of years ago at Barnwell. I bet someone has a 3d print model I could use. :D

Crist Clapper
10-03-2022, 05:51 PM
Working on the final punch-list:

1) Cargo-area complete and vacuumed
2) Power-seat controls - Recolored by www.fibrenew.com - NOS woodgrain applique
3) Front-seat - Rear carpet covers