Frame Specs

I have a 73 Commando whose frame and body have succumbed to NY State's winter weather and liberal use of salt on the roads. Am looking for a frame that will except my current drive train and axles with minimal, if any mods. I can't seem to find a web site that lists track width and associated info for different models of roughly the same age. The 73 runs a narrow, full length frame, with outboard rear spring hangers. Am I limited to just a coupla of model years within the Commando grouping or will a pre 76 CJ-5 or something else work. I'm not worried about a body tub at this point since I don't have one and drive shaft length is not a concern since that would be a simpler, easier mod than changing spring location on my axles. Any help, info, direction to look in would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
2verpsters

 

The Jeepster Commando or Commando is basically different body on a CJ6 frame with some mods to the spring hangers. A CJ6 is a lengthened CJ5.

If you want that wheelbase and no welding, you're limited to 72-73 Commando frames. A 72-75 CJ6 frame is close but the front spring hangers will be a different width (IIRC) and there won't be the outboarded rear springs. Ypu'd have to change the spring hangers or move the springs inboard on the rear axle. A 72-75 CJ will work if you have a manual transmission - the length will be way shorter, thus an automatic won't fit.

Using a CJ5 frame from prior to 1972 would be too difficult if your drivetrain is either an automatic or an inline 6. A Commando or CJ6 frame from before 72 could be made to fit if your drivetrain has a V8.

The New England Online Wheelers (NEOW) used to have frame measurements online at their site, but I don't know where theya re now.

Welcome from Boston.

 

Thanks for the info, it does have the 3 speed manual and straight six. Kinda forgot to put that rather important piece of info in there. Over all wheel base makes no difference to me, just trying to use my drive train and axles with minimal cutting and welding. If I can't get away from cutting and welding so be it, I can do it, was just figuring that I already had quite a project going without making it more difficult. Will check out that link you mentioned.