CJ Narrow Track Stability

[Scramblur]

I have an 83 CJ-8,wide track. But I just bought my teenager a 76 CJ-7 narrow track.

Here is what I'm wondering

AMC made the switch from narrow to wide track axles for rollover reasons. The WT axles went under the same chassis as the NT axles. For safety reasons can I compensate for the shorter axles by using tires, rims or both. The WTs were 4" longer than the NTs, so can I get 2" or preferably more on each side and still steer it? I'd prefer not to change out the axles if it is just as safe to use tires to get the stance.

Thanks
bkh

 

[Cherokeester]

I used 1 1/4" wheel spacers on my cj7 and it seems to work well enough. I don't have any major problems. I don't believe in the spacers ruin wheel bearing thing. I have run them for a few years and never had any issues.

 

[Scramblur]

Good solution, didn't know they existed. Do you know what the differences are between cheap ones and expensive ones? Any recomendations on brands? And you use them on front and back?
Thanks
bkh

 

[Cherokeester]

I use them on the front and rear and they are very easy to install. Find them here.

http://www.quadratec.com/products/product_search.php?kw=spidertrax

 

[bobdog]

Spacers or different offset wheels will affect scrub radius. It will also hurt bearing and ball joint life. Stock widetrac axles are a dime a dozen if you keep your eyes open.

 

[Cherokeester]

Yes you can find axles but not everyone can afford to have them put on. Not everyone has the mechanics to install them either. Larger than stock tires can affect lots of things on a semi stock cj but we all put em on. I just don't believe all the "it will ruin your bearing" stuff. If you have the resources to swap out the axles, I do think that is a better way but not always feasible.

 

[Spork]

I guess I need to ask what are you going to do with it?
Less than 33" I would say just drive it. Unless you are driving on steep side slopes at a decent rate of speed then you probably shouldn't be in a CJ anyway.