Whether you're restoring a vintage Jeep CJ or upgrading a trail-blazing CJ7, Mountain Offroad's CJ collection offers everything you need—from body armor to drivetrain reinforcements. This guide dives deep into key components, model-specific considerations, and expert insights for building a tougher, more capable CJ.
1. Why Invest in Quality Jeep CJ Parts
The Jeep CJ is legendary for its off-road capability, but its OE components can struggle once you push into serious terrain. M.O.R.E.’s “RockProof” parts are designed and manufactured in Colorado to deliver:
- Heavy-duty protection (solid steering mounts, sturdy bumpers, skid plates)
- Precise fit and durability (bolt-on solutions for CJ5 and CJ7)
- Trail-ready performance, built to withstand rocks, ruts, and steep climbs
A reliable upgrade ensures your CJ can confidently tackle challenging adventures without part failure.
2. Key Upgrades for CJ5 and CJ7 Models
- Steering box mounts & braces: Factory steering boxes on CJ5/CJ7 are prone to flex under load. M.O.R.E.’s HW-forward double‑bolt box mounts and braces minimize box movement, keeping steering responsive and tight .
- Shackle hanger and shackles: Heavy-duty front and rear hangers with secure bushings improve spring performance and reduce shackling under suspension compression.
B. Drivetrain & Mounting Components
- Bomb‑proof motor mounts: Available for AMC 8‑cyl, AMC 6‑cyl, and Chevy LS/V6 engines, these mounts are essential for reducing engine chatter and handling off-road torque shifts.
- Cross‑member plates: Replace rusted factory plates with strong frame cross-members to protect against leakage and framedamage.
C. Armor & Protection
- Skid plates: Defend vital areas like the floor, transmission and transfer case. M.O.R.E. builds durable skid kits specifically sized for CJ5/ CJ7 chassis.
- Bumpers & rock sliders: Heavy-duty front and rear bumpers offer winch capability, while rock sliders guard against side impacts and are crucial for rock crawling.
- Fenders: Rugged fenders add clearance and protection from mud and debris.
3. Model-Specific Advice: CJ5 vs CJ7
Feature
CJ5 (Shorter Wheelbase)
CJ7 (Longer Wheelbase)
Suspension kits
Tighter turning radius, needs good shackle hangers for spring articulation
Taller and heavier; requires long-travel hangers and heavy-duty shackles
Steering mounts
Same sturdiness needed to prevent death wobble
Forward-box mounts offer better control on rough trails
Frame reinforcement
Frame plates and cross‑members keep flex under control
Essential when running long arms, lift kits or wide suspensions
Bumpers & sliders
Stubby front bumpers fit narrow body
Full rock sliders cover longer rocker panels
This ensures you pick the right setup for a CJ 5 jeep or jeep cj 7 project.
4. Restoration & Catalog Planning
For those diving into full restoration or parts catalog needs:
- CJ5 parts catalog (1972–1983) and CJ7 parts catalog (1976–1986) breakdown parts by chassis, engine, and suspension model—ideal for sourcing OEM and replacement items.
- For older models: 1978 jeep cj-5, 1979 jeep cj-7, or 1985 jeep cj-7 owners will find model-specific guides to match OEM fitment and trim options.
- Frame mounts, body panels, brake lines, mounts, and bushings across these years are well-documented for restorers.
These are must-read categories if you’re searching for “jeep cj parts catalog” or restoring any CJ model.
5. Buying Tips & Fitment Checks
✅ Check vehicle year & model
CJ part numbers often vary by model year and engine swap. Before ordering:
- Specify if your Jeep CJ is a 1976 CJ7 or a 1978 CJ5.
- Indicate engine type (AMC or Chevy swap).
✅ Bolt-on or weld-on?
Most M.O.R.E. frame and steering plates are bolt-on, making them restoration or trail-ready without cutting.
✅ Matching rear & front upgrades
Balance front-end protection (winch bumper, sleplate) with rear rer bumper and rock sliders for full underride safety.
✅ US-made Quality
M.O.R.E. parts are built in Colorado and backed with warranty—ensuring durability and support.
6. Trail-Ready Builds: Popular Upgrades
- “Bomb‑Proof” motor mounts + cross‑member plates = engine stability and chassis strength.
- Steering box mounts + tie-rod/drag-link kits cure wandering and death wobble on rough trails.
- CJ7 rear bumper + winch plate transforms your rig into a recovery-ready machine.
- Full skid plate set ensures protection for engine, trans, and transfer case.
- Rock sliders & heavy-duty front bumper are must-haves for rock crawling and ledge exposure.
These curated combos turn a stock CJ into a true off-road performer.
7. Maintenance & Upgrade Workflow
- Inspect stock parts: Look for rust, flex cracks, worn bushings.
- Prioritize steering box and motor mounts to immediately improve drivability.
- Add skid plates and bumpers before trail use.
- Finish with sliders, frame plates, and suspension upgrades.
Document changes: keep records of part numbers by model/year for future reference.