Cj-3b Vs Cj-5 Axles

Hello,
Did the 3B and early CJ5 use the same axles? I'm considering trying to build a 3B with a frame and body kit. 3Bs are hard to find around here but early 5s pop up frequently. I'm wondering if an early 5 would be a suitable donor vehicle for drivetrain and steering.
Thanks,
Ken

 

Axles are not necessarily the same, but compatible. Can't say about the steering.

 

Yes the 3B and CJ5 axles are identical so long as the year is the same.
Most drivetrain parts are a direct inter change but not all.

 

Thanks for the replies. Can you tell me what of the drivetrain is not directly interchangeable?

 

i think it's all just year dependent, if they're the same year (or similar) they should all be the same. the only difference is the body, as far as i'm aware. cj3B's are pretty cool.

 

The main components that are not a direct interchange are:
Frames
Leaf springs
Front propeller shafts
Radiators
Instrumentation before 1957
Fuel tanks
Body parts excluding tailgates

 

Good info, thank you. Is the front propeller shaft just shortened compared to a CJ5?

 

Yes about 1” difference in wheel base mainly effects front propeller shaft length.
Rear propeller is only different by a small fraction of an inch.

 

Another option which might save some dollars if you intend to buy a CJ5 as a donor. With minimal modifications you can put a 3B, or other flat fender body onto a pre 71 CJ5 chassis, it will just be 3" too long in the rear. That frame cross member sticking out back there makes a great place to add a bumper, or support Jerry cans and spare tires.