Something of an icon in the world of Jeeps, Moses Ludel is probably best known amongst four-wheelers as the author of the Jeep Owner's Bible, a kind of insider's guide to how Jeeps work. Now, drawing on decades of experience, Ludel has produced two new books that delve deeply into the Jeep CJ in all its various incarnations: the MB, M38, M38A1, and the CJ-2A, -3A, -3B, -5, -6, -7, and -8.
Now don't be deceived: These books are not historical overviews. They are precisely what the subhead claims: rebuilder's manuals. Between them, these two volumes cover a combined 40 years ('46-'86) of technical information, including OE specs, mechanical drawings, and extensive photographs of both stock and upgraded parts and systems.
Each of the volumes has been divided into 10 chapters, covering every facet of the CJ:
1.Disassembling Your Jeep2. Engine Rebuilding3. Transmission and Clutch4. Transfer Case and Overdrive5. Axle Rebuilding and Upgrades6. Frame, Suspension, and Body Repair7. Steering and Brake Service8. Electrical and Ignition System Upgrades9. Fuel and Exhaust Systems10. Accessories and Safety Equipment
Using a step-by-step format, complete with photographs of everything he is doing and why, Ludel goes into the minute details of performing simple repairs, tackling full restorations, and installing the kind of aftermarket parts that will enhance the off-road capabilities of the venerable CJ.
Drawing the reader in from the very start, Ludel begins by stripping a vintage CJ down to the bare frame, photographing every step in the process. He then goes on to disassemble and rebuild every subassembly on the vehicle, providing professional insight.
There are no other books currently available for the CJ that provide the kind of detail that Ludel provides in his rebuilder's manuals. Whether you're looking to rebuild your CJ from the ground up or simply do standard repairs, these guides are indispensable. If you own a CJ, you should own these books.
Further FactsJeep CJ Rebuilder's Manual is published by Bentley Publishers, 1734 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138, www.bentleypublishers.com, ISBN 0-8376-1037-0.