Bought a 1970 Mahindra Jeep as my first project car: Some queries

I have been advised to drive this vehicle without any worries for another 10,000 km.

BHPian BABABOT recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

MY NEW JEEP

Dear Esteem Members and Gurus,

I have just bought a 1970 model (as per papers) Mahindra Jeep. I presume it is a CJ 3 B, but I have no Idea. The previous owner has done an engine swap with a MDI diesel engine mated with a 3 speed gear box with suspended pedals. It has a working 4x4. I plan to restore it and use it for my me time with mild off-roading. Actually I was always a jeep fan but realize the dream to own one now. My present plan is to get the mechanical fitness in order first and then go for cosmetic changes later. the jeep is in a working condition with no major repairs as per my mechanic . He has advised the following now.

1. A proper wash.
2. Open up all four wheels and check the brakes for fitness and carryout any changes required.
3. Changing of all oil and lubricants.
4. Checking and taping of all wirings.
5. Changing of Clutch cable ( he feels it is a bit tight)

After the above mentioned initial works ,he has advised me to drive it for 15 days to get used to the feel of the Jeep

Phase I Plan

1. Tinkering of rusted area and thereafter painting of the body.
2. Rubber coating painting of the chassis and tube from below.
3. Installation of two second hand Innova seats ( already procured from Mayapuri)
4. Changing of the canvas. the canvas looks new but it seems the material is not good and it leaks (without any holes)
5. Repairs of any mechanical issues identified after driving
6. Three tyres to be procured.

Advised from Experts needed for the following :-

1. Identification of the Jeep ( paper says 1970 model).
2. Design of the roll cage.
3. What material/brand of canvas to be used.
4. Any other valuable advise and suggestions will be highly appreciated.

Note : I am a total newbie for a jeep . what ever knowledge I have is by reading about it in BHP.

Thank You

The Photos of the jeep for reference and comments please

Other photos are as follows. Requested for advice of Gurus and experts

Today the Jeep was given a wash, all the drums were opened and brake linings serviced. The brake linings and the cylinder were found to be ina good condition. All the electrical connections were checked and any repairs done. The clutch cables was also changed. All the oil and lubricants were checked and changes/topping up carried out. On Monday we will take it out for a final test drive and bring it home. I have been advised to drive this vehicle without any worries for 10000KM. The cosmetic changes like denting and paintings will be done post Diwali.

The following advice needed from experts.

1. The Jeep has no tools. I am buying a Jack and related tools to repair/change wheel. Request for list of minimum tools required
2. There are no side rear view mirrors. which mirrors would be the best for this jeep

I have also bought two Innova seats from Mayapuri. It is being brought here by transport. Should reach me by Monday. We will fix the seat later when we do the body work.

Some photographs of today

Here's what BHPian svsantosh had to say on the matter:

CJ500, not CJ3B. Long wheel base. Engine GB seems original. Vacuum assist Brakes are mod, if working fine just leave it.

It is a project jeep, got lots to do, you can refer to my thread about a similar jeep. TBhp has many such Jeep threads too.

Welcome to the 'Why my wife may hate me' club.

Here's what BHPian that_sedate_guy had to say on the matter:

I used to have a MM540 which had many mechanicals similar to your Jeep.

On the tyres, the NDMS ones are fine and they work really well off road too. As long as your axles are setup right, there should be no turning issues nor will there be any tyre longevity issues. They're quite tough. Also, don't replace three driving tyres. Replace all four or replace the front two only/rear two only and use the odd one out as the spare.

One more thing. Take a look at the alternator and the rectifier. They're common failure points in the old jeeps.

Other than that they're tough basic machines you can have fun with.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.