CJ six - eight conversion

Greetings. New to the group. I’ve owned several CJ’s. Merging two 2a’s into one currently. Back burner project… Bought a CJ7 Laredo new in 84. Sold it several years later when I got married as it just wasn’t practical as our only vehicle. We have had many cars. That’s the one that ‘got away’. Always pined for an 8 cylinder CJ7. An 8 cylinder CJ 7 Laredo would be my pinnacle. As a one year only vehicle (1981). Not many out there and very costly in any condition.

But… as much as I prefer ‘bone stock’ and ‘correctness’ an interesting opportunity presents itself. I have an offer to swap for an 81 Laredo 258 that runs and drives - but needs a lot. It’s not pretty. Many new parts but body and frame are not good. Included (believed to be a 1979) is an 80K mile 304 drivetrain (engine, trans, transfer case, driveshafts, rears)- running when recently pulled. A VERY nice restored (not repro) tub and a very nice frame. Along with a bunch of other parts. Much to source and add on my own to end up in a pretty CJ7 V8 Laredo. No, the VIN will not sync with what’s under the hood. But it will be fun!

My questions. How much of the vehicle is different going from the 258 to the 304? There are many new parts in the 6 cylinder Laredo. All new brakes, rotors, discs, master, wheel cylinders - are these the same for the eight? Springs? Shocks? Gas tank? Gauges? Wiring harness? Except for what’s physically attached to the motor under the hood - is anything else different?

I have not pulled the trigger yet but I am 95% there. Time, getting greasy, cussing - that’s what I do!

Thoughts appreciated

- Pete