Newbie with CJ2A questions

[Agar426]

Hello, I am new to this board, so I apologize if I am asking questions that have been asked a million times. First of all, if this is not an appropriate forum for my question, please let me know of other forums out there that would be better suited. I've got a '46 CJ2A that I would like to update a little for the purpose of towing behind my truck to use on hunting trips, camping trips, as well as limited use in town (for short trips). I am definitely not building a rock crawler or mud bogger, but the Jeep will have to be capable enough to tackle old logging roads, poor condition dirt roads, and other obstacles that one would run across while retrieving game, dropping off hunters, and general exploration. The Jeep is pretty much stock now, but not in running condition; homemade gas tank, stock axles, steering is a mere suggestion, and the brakes can't even cash the checks that the wheezy L134 writes. Here is what I had in mind, so please comment on my thoughts to see if what I had in mind is even possible, much less a good idea.

Engine: V6 swap with upgraded cooling system (either 4.3 Chevy or Buick V6). Which is the better/easier choice?

Tranny: SM420 or TH-350. Which is easiest to swap in?

X-Fer Case: Dana 18, Warn/Saturn OD when money allows

Axles: Stock for now, with future plans to swap to front and rear 44 only if required due to breakage of existing axles. New axles would have 4.56's and some form of locker in the rear.

Brakes: Upgrade current brakes with discs up front and 11" drums in back. When axle swap occurs, better discs up front, and probably still drums in back to save money.

Steering: Swap to Saginaw steering (power). Is the AA kit a good choice? Should the stock column be retained?

Suspension: Off the shelf 2 ½" lift with aftermarket shackles (no lift on the shackles)

Tires: Either 32x11.50 BFG MT's or 33x12.50s. Leaning toward the 32's

Roll Cage: Probably just an off the shelf unit like the Smittybilt unit.

Amenities: Heater (how would I do this), soft top/bikini top, still deciding what to do about the seats. I really dig the old style seats, but for extended driving, they are likely to be very uncomfortable. Swing away spare tire carrier (once again…how would I do this, as there is no bumper really to mount one to)

I apologize for the length of the post, but you guys seem to be very knowledgeable and excellent resources for guidance and opinions. Thanks for any help or advice that anyone may be able to provide.

[TexasBlake]

I've seen a CJ2A with a Pinto engine, 31s, a little lift, and lockrites able to do the kind of things you are talking about wanting to do.

[RCKRATZ]

I would stay away from the Warn Overdrive if possible, I had nothing but bad luck with mine. Had to rebuild the unit 3 times within 50,000 miles, and anyone that has ever rebuilt one will tell you that it isn't cheap. just my $.02

[willysjeepseller]

I just sold my restomod gpw that I used for hunting and light wheelin. It went pretty good considering it wasn't the fastest thing around. I had a rebuilt 134 but was going to swap it out for the 2.3 pinto and just run the T-90 3-speed. I still have the adapter if you are looking for one. A lot of guys say it's a descent setup for a huntin rig and you might not break stuff like you would with a bigger motor. There are also companies like Esslinger that make parts that can give your pinto four banger something like 400 horse if you decide that you need it.

As far as your seats go I had the trailmax classics. They weren't too bad and they looked kind of stock. However there was a bar in the back by your tail bone that could cause you some pain when it got bumpy.

If your thinking lift kit. I would suggest that you stay away from the suferlist 2.5. I put it in and the thing rode so ruff I got whiplash. A friend of mine had the same problem and we both wad to pull a leaf to which eventually caused sagging. Might as well go spring over on wrangler springs for good flex and ride (have to move the spring mounts though).

Good Luck