Jeep Collection

Very cool RD!!
I loved seeing that Super Jeep!! In 1974-75, I was a senior in High school. Planning on commuting to State College after graduation, I needed a car. I had tons of money back then. I worked a lot, and water skiing was my passion, besides chicks and beer!! I didn't waste money on things in general, knowing that when I bought my "ride" I wanted something cool. In December of 74, I decided a Jeep CJ-5 was calling for me. I looked used at first, but then my Dad said I should start looking for a new one. I had about $4,500 in the bank. Tried to locate a leftover 74, cuz the 75's were out. Landed at a dealership in Hartford. He had two 74's in the showroom, that's all they had. A gold standard CJ with white seats, and a Renegade fully loaded. I was very frugal, so I put a down payment on the gold one. $3,800 out the door!! They needed a couple days to put the top on, undercoat, etc.... So finally the day arrives, I'm going to pick up my Jeep!!! I still get excited about that day! Went to school, then to my Dad's shop to work like I did everyday. We worked until about 5, then finally Dad says, "let's go get your Jeep!!" Then he says "oh wait, there is something I need to tell you. You aren't getting that gold Jeep" I was like "WHY??" He says "I called the dealer and told him we want that Renegade instead. I want you to have the V8" I said to my Dad that I didn't think I could afford it. My Dad said "Don't worry, I paid for it already, you can pay me back later" Oh man!!! I was NEVER SO JACKED UP!! My Dad never let me pay him for it, even though I had enough after all. It was $4,300 out the door!!
My Renegade was green, a beautiful machine!! Sold it after I got married and my wife was carrying our first child.
If I could ever find another one just like it, I would buy it in a heartbeat!! We still love Jeeps. My wife drives a Grand Cherokee with a Hemi, and wants me to sell our conversion van, and buy a used Wrangler!!
Thanks for posting this, it made my day!!!

RD,
Didn't know you were associated with Rugged Ridge. They make a lot of quality parts I would love to purchase. Cool job.

Quote from Ruptured Duck

yes, been there 12 years. Currently the product development manager.

What cool things should I be looking forward to.

RD

Very cool - you know you have reignited my desire to start a jeep build. I have never owned one but it has always had a place on my bucket list.

This project has only been going for a couple of months. We just ordered new metal fenders.

Quote from Ruptured Duck

@MACAWS let me know what you might need. Will be happy to help!

We will have to find some time to talk - I will take some advice for best direction

I wish I still had all of my jeeps through the years. I'd have a Hell of a collection!
I've owned over 30.
I still have my favorite though.
I still own a WW2 Ford military jeep. It's on loan to a local museum.
I'll never sell that.

Thanks for the link. An interesting tour and history lesson!

I have had a few jeeps over the years. Going to be selling a 2 door 2000 Cherokee. 2 door is rare.

Very good. Bought it new for wife and she worked in town.

Quote from Ruptured Duck

collection worthy condition?
Just asking. As you said a well preserved 2dr XJ are hard to find

My idea of well preserved. Exocage preserving the body from rocks.