1984 Jeep CJ7 Specs and Review (Sport Utility 4×4)

An important part of the Jeep brand’s history, the 1984 Jeep CJ7 signified the end of military-oriented rigs and the birth of all-American sport-utility vehicles. It may not be the Blue Jeans of 4x4s. But it is the forefather of the only trim qualified to rival the Jeep Wrangler series – the Rubicon.

The 1984 Jeep CJ7 is a sport utility 4×4 preceding the famous CJ-8 Scrambler and Wrangler models. Boasting a redesigned chassis, ample-sized wheelbase, unchanged aesthetics, optional Quadra-Trac powertrain, and unrivaled off-road capability, it continues to be the go-to vehicle for adventurers.

Thanks to its impressive attributes, the CJ7 can maintain its position in rock-crawling and mud racing while introducing the market to a whole new driving experience and meeting end-user needs. Continue reading this guide, and learn more about the 1984 Jeep CJ7 – considered the “Last of a Great Breed.”

The 7th Generation Jeep CJ

The 1984 CJ7 Jeep is the 7th generation of Jeep CJ models by then American Motors Corporation and was produced between 1976 and 1986. Like most of the earlier Jeep CJ (Civilian Jeep) incarnations, the ’84 CJ7s were open-bodied, semi-4WD off-road vehicles with squared-off entry cutouts, signature circular headlights, flared fenders (view on Amazon), and a 10-inch longer wheelbase. They were not necessarily as small as the CJ-5 trims but still fell short of being categorically considered a compact pickup truck.

Predecessor to the Jeep Wrangler YJ, the CJ7 marks the first major change in the design of the Jeep CJ series since it ditched “Willys” from its branding in 1956. These changes included subtle cosmetic alterations, a longer wheelbase housing an automatic transmission, and offerings of an optional injection-molded hardtop and steel doors, converting the half-naked 4×4 to a fully enclosed wheeler.

The 1984 Jeep CJ7, in particular, signaled the forthcoming end of the CJ-5 era and, more importantly, the last line of Jeeps tracing their lineage back to the WWII Willys MB.

An Incomparable Off-Roading Favorite

The 1984 Jeep CJ7 was among the versions of Jeep SUVs that genuinely spoke of the brand’s narrative. For the CJ7, off-road optimism, ruggedness, and versatility were king and central to the kind of driving experience it provided. These traits superseded creature comforts, carrying over to recent-year fan-fave Jeep Wranglers and iterations crowding today’s market.

Although considered an inadequate contender in the compact pickup truck segment, the CJ7’s robust framework laid the foundation for more successful models like the roadster-cum-convertible CJ-8 (more popularly known as the Jeep Scrambler). Because of this and other impressive attributes, it is currently recognized as a bonafide classic – with a variety of reputable power mills, manual and semi-automatic transmissions, and an all-new Quadra-Trac 4×4 drivetrain to offer.

1984 Jeep CJ7 Specs & Features

Engine

Jeep CJ7s have either a 2.46-L/150 in3 I4-1V engine or a naturally-aspirated 4.2-L/258 in3 I6-2V AMC OHV engine. Both power mills have electronic ignition and dual-barrel carbs, and the bigger-displacement engine is reputably more hard-wearing than its 2.46-liter counterpart. Both share the same 9.2:1 compression ratio and top-speed rating of at least 75 mph (120.7 km/h).

Bore-stroke ratio for the 2.46-L engine is 98 x 80 mm (3.876 x 3.188 inches) and 95.25 x 98.9 mm (3.75 x 3.895 inches) for the 4.2-L engine. Piston displacement is 2,460 cm3 and 4,200 cm3, respectively. Overall, these configurations spew a horsepower range of 82-110 hp (60 – 80.9 kW) @ 3,200 – 4,000 RPM and a maximum torque output of 169.5 – 261 Nm (125 – 192 ft-lbf) at 2,600 – 3,200 RPM. They also lend to a gas mileage of 17 – 23 MPG (10.2 – 13.8 liters per 100 km, EPA estimate).

Fuel & Lubrication

Recommended fuel is 56 liters (14.8 US gallons, standard) or 75.5 liters (20 US gallons, optional tank) of high-quality unleaded gasoline with a minimum PON 87/RON 91 rating, containing <15% MBTE, <5% methanol, or <10% ethanol. Methanol-containing variants are typically discouraged, as they can lead to fuel-component damage or drivability issues.

Conversely, engine oil capacities are 3.78 liters (4.0 US quarts, 2.46-L AMC I4) or 4.75 – 5.7 liters (5.0 – 6.0 US quarts, 4.2 L AMC I6) of SAE 10W-30 engine oil with a minimum API grade of SJ+ meeting JASO T903 MA standards. Other viscosity grades – such as SAE 5W-30, 10W-40, 20W-40, or 20W-50 – can be used following ambient temperature.

Transmission oil capacities are dependent on the engine transmission pairing. For instance, a Chrysler A-999 Auto with a locking torque converter requires 4.0 liters/8.5 US pints. Both Tremec T-176 and T4 trannies need 1.7 liters/3.5 US pints. Meanwhile, a Borg-Warner T-5 with overdrive has 1.9 liters (4.0 US pints).

Drivetrain

The Borg-Warner T4 and Tremec T-176 transmissions are standard on base 1984 Jeep CJ7s. Meanwhile, the 4.2-liter Chrysler A-999 3-speed automatic, Borg-Warner T-5, and All-Wheel Drive Quadra-Trac system were optional. All engine-transmission pairings go with a Dana 300 transfer case, recirculating ball steering system, and manual-locking front hubs (view on Amazon).

A 2.4-liter Isuzu C240 diesel engine provided by General Motors was made between 1980 and 1982 exclusively for export. This engine-transmission pairing mated to 4.10-ratio narrow-track Dana 20 axles and was also found in Renegade and Laredo trims. AMC V8s launched from 1976 to 1981 were in Golden Eagle trims and used 3.55-ratio axles. Standard 4.2-liter Inline-6 and 2.46-liter Inline-4 engines used 3.73-ratio axles.

Ignition

The ’84 CJ7 has an ignition system consisting of an ECU, trigger wheel, and pick-up coil circuit. Ignition timing with vacuum advance hose is 12° ± 1° @ 1,500 RPM for the 2.46-L OHV and 19° ± 1° @ 1,500 RPM for the 4.2-L OHV engine. A Delco SI alternator with a 2-wire clip (and an internal voltage regulator) serves as its charging system. It works well with a 590-CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) 12V battery powering the vehicle and any electronic accessories. Fuses are as follows:

• 25 Amp (rear window defroster and wiper, blower motor fan, headlamp delay, A/C switch, emission system)
• 20 Amp (turn signals, backup lamps, heated backlight relay, cruise control, rheostat, an overhead console, chime module, dash/instrumentation, etc.)
• 15 Amp (radio/cigar lighter, hazard warning system, cluster, compass, 4WD lamp)
• 10 Amp (dome light, courtesy lamp, glove box, cargo lamp, park lamps, headlamps on warning, ETR radio, power antenna, digital clock)
• 7.5 Amp (gauges, seatbelt warning, hazard flasher)
• 5 Amp (I/P lamps, front wiper)

Tires & Brakes

Stock tires are tubeless, pneumatic P235/75R15 radials like Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT Street Radial Tires (view on Amazon) on 15×7-size rims capable of withstanding top speeds up to 75 mph. Some 1984 Jeep CJ7 releases used P205/75R15 or P215/75R15 tires on 15×5.5 wheels. Manual front discs, single-piston rear drums, and a single-diaphragm power brake unit complete the tire-and-wheel assembly.

Recommended cold-tire pressure for any compatible tire size is between 193 – 241 kPa (1.97 – 2.46 kgf-cm2, 28 – 35 psi), depending on whether sustained driving goes beyond 65 mph (105 km/h) or not. Owners can go for stock-size 28-inch tires or slightly larger ones, provided they get matching rims. Base models have steel wheels, while those with optional add-ons would have either forged aluminum, chrome-plated steel, or wide-rim spoke-type sport rims.

Suspension

Underneath its longer bodywork is a redesigned chassis consisting of distinct 1984 Jeep CJ7 parts, such as parallel longitudinal rails. This new framework aided the 4×4’s stability and allowed the rear suspension to be put out as far as possible. Furthermore, semi-elliptical leaf springs and dual-action hydraulic shocks make for the CJ7’s superb handling and maneuverability off-road.

Dimensions

There are negligible differences in the CJ7’s overall dimensions, depending on whether it was open-bodied or had a soft/hardtop. Length and width remain unchanged at 3,891 mm (153.2 inches) and 1,659 mm (65.3 inches), respectively. Meanwhile, the height is at 1,801 – 1,826 mm (70.9 – 71.9 inches), including a roll bar as a standard. Service manual aside, you may notice a 2-inch difference in these measurements if vehicle specs are sourced elsewhere.

Front tracks measure 1,400 mm (55 inches), with the rear at 1,417 mm (55.8 inches). The front and rear overhang are similar to the Scrambler at 23.5 inches/597 mm and 36.3 inches/922 mm. Step height is 27.1 inches/688 mm, while headroom ranges from 1,006 mm/39.6 inches to 1,031 mm/40.6 inches – making ingress a tad more comfortable for drivers with different builds.

Inside, the CJ7 has almost the same cabin measurements as the CJ-8. Up front, it has a minimum of 39.6 inches (1,006 mm) of head and legroom and 53.8 inches (1,367 mm) of hip and shoulder room. It offers a 16-cubic-foot bed capacity at the back – just the right size for an adventurer’s 4×4. Curb weight is 1,228 Kg/2,707 lbs. GVWR is still impressive at 1,700 Kg/3,750 lbs. (with standard suspension) or 4,150 lbs./1,882 Kg (with H.D. suspension or one-piece hardtop).

Exterior

Rearview mirrors, tilt steering wheel, factory-installed auto-reversing cassette deck, and transfer case skid plates are standard on all 1984 Jeep CJ7 trims. The one-piece injection-molded hardtop and halogen fog lamps (among other things) are optional. Three trims were available to consumers, allowing them to personalize the look of their CJ7s.

Laredo packages came with chrome bumpers, tow hooks, leather seats, a clock, and a tachometer. On the other hand, Renegade models had eye-catching stripes on the sides of their body panels, similar to the Scrambler. The CJ7 Limited offered a padded roll bar, spoked wheels, a chrome front bumper, and a slew of other creature comforts.

1984 Jeep CJ7 Packages

The Jeep CJ7 series has had several trims since its inception in 1976 that catered to riders with different styling preferences. In this section, we will cover standout trims between 1982 and 1984:

Levi’s Package:

This marketing-driven Levi’s Package trim took advantage of the Levi’s® brand’s reputation as a clothing company and was also offered in 1984. As with other year models of the said trim, the CJ7 interior featured denim dash padding, sun visors, padded roof or hardtop, jean-style stitching on the seats, and a Levi’s badge on the cowl above the Jeep lettering.

1984 Jeep CJ7 Renegade:

This sporty package had either a 2.46-liter Inline-4 or 4.2- liter straight-6 engine and Borg-Warner T4 4-speed manual engine-transmission combo. It included air conditioning, rocker panel moldings, spray-lined floors, black door inlay decal appliqués, and a trailer hitch. However, it was best distinguished for its wood-side rails and varied color schemes.

1984 Jeep CJ7 Laredo:

Formerly known as the SR Sport, this package came with high-back leather bucket seats, pinstriped instrument panel, indoor carpeting, under-hood insulation/lighting, and chromed exterior (including the bumpers). These features were on top of a 4.2- liter straight-6 engine and everything else found in the Renegade.

Special Mentions

1982 – 1983 Jeep CJ7 Limited:

This limited-production luxury model boasted sensible features, such as an optional hardtop, noise-reducing upholstery and carpeting, comfortable bucket seats, and Power Assist. The latter, in particular, ensured close-to-effortless driving, while all other features made for an improved, car-like driving experience – even on rough terrain. Goodyear Arriva tires lent to better bump absorption and grip on the pavement. Overall, the 2,500 units released under this package marked the beginning of comfort-oriented changes in the Jeep lineup.

1982 Jamboree Commemorative Edition:

With only 630 units (560 Topaz Gold Metallic, 70 Olympic White), the special-edition package is the rarest CJ7 ever built and the forefather of the standalone Rubicon package. This commemorative trim is the heaviest-optioned Jeep ever made and belongs to the same ranks as the 1971 CJ-5 Renegade-II when it comes to being part of the rarest Jeep creations of all time.

1984 Jeep CJ7 Value

The MSRP of the ’84 Jeep Scrambler ranged from $7,563 to $7,873, depending on if the model was a standard, open-bodied model, or hardtop version. These figures are not representative of special packages produced within the same year, as sources for their list prices are a tad obscure. You may come across pricing details on the ’84 Renegade package in forums to be at $11,260. But this has yet to be established as the actual MSRP for the said trim.

Information on resale values is conversely more accessible and abound in auction and trader sites. Based on 3rd party pricing data, you can expect to pay as low as $2,400 – $6,125 or as high as $33,000 for a 1984 Jeep CJ7 with mid-to-high mileage. Its average retail ranges from $11,495 to $12,750. Anything valued above $20,600 mostly has fewer miles and hours under its belt and is categorized as a high-retail unit. The heftiest price any CJ7 trim had sold for was a ridiculous price tag of $1.3M at a charity event benefiting US military personnel and their families.

1984 Jeep CJ7 – Pros and Cons

Pros

• The CJ7’s 93-inch wheelbase makes it an enjoyable off-pavement ride, even on rough terrain.
• Various engine-transmission combinations make the CJ7 suitable for individual driver preferences.
• Trim packages gave enthusiasts a means to personalize their vehicles and make them stand out.
• The vehicle’s new chassis system and shocks placement gave rise to the custom shocks movement popular among 4×4 fanatics.
• Wide-ratio axles of different transmissions help retain low-end grunt and smooth shifting.

Cons

• Excessive wind noise and air leaks tend to come from trims with hard doors and fiberglass roofs.
• Steering can be overly responsive (if not difficult), making the ride feel jerky.
• The vehicle is difficult to maneuver or control at both high and low speeds.
• Secondhand transmissions have a proclivity to leak fluid unless re-sealed at the point of purchase.
• Despite how it is marketed, the 1984 Jeep CJ7 is cramped and barely provides sufficient room for four passengers, including the driver.
• Although robust, its body can be severely damaged if accidentally crashed or flipped over.
• The vehicle lacks a thoughtfully placed grab handle/overhead grip for the front passenger for added rider safety.

About Stellantis

Stellantis is an automotive manufacturer formerly known as the Italian-American group FCA or Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. This 113-year-old industry giant started in 1908 as Willys–Overland Motors, specializing in military Jeeps and agri-vehicles.

During the ’40s, the firm (then AMC) decided to transition from military-oriented to commercial Jeeps and, along the way, created the 1984 Jeep CJ7. Stellantis is the 6th largest global automobile manufacturer, with a growing plethora of product offerings – including powerhouse brands like Fiat, Maserati, and Chrysler.

Conclusion – 1984 Jeep CJ7 Review 

To inspire off-road beasts like the Rubicon is no small feat – especially for a four-decade-old 4×4. It may have been undermined in the past, but a growing number of adventurers appreciate the value of this ’84 classic. This newfound understanding of the vehicle’s worth, along with continued efforts to restore it to its former glory, can only mean the 1984 Jeep CJ7 will continue to thrive and endure.