360-Powered 1978 Jeep CJ-7 Renegade

Description

The Jeep CJ-7 offered improvements over the long-running CJ-5 to meet growing consumer demands for comfort and versatility. Introduced in 1976, the CJ-7 was designed with a longer wheelbase — 93.4 inches compared to the CJ-5’s 84 inches — providing better stability and more interior space. By 1978, it had firmly established itself as a favorite among off-road enthusiasts and recreational drivers.

This 1978 CJ-7 reportedly received a multiyear refurbishment that was completed in 2024 and included replacing the factory inline-six engine with an AMC 360ci V8. The body is finished in Oak Leaf Brown with gold Renegade graphics, and a tan removable hardtop is complemented by color-coordinated upholstery. Power is sent to all four wheels through a rebuilt three-speed automatic transmission mated to a twin-stick Dana 300 transfer case, reinforced AMC 20 axles, and rebuilt wide-track differentials with a locking rear unit. Additional features include disc brakes, dual side-exit exhaust, an AM/FM stereo, and a CB radio.  

This refurbished CJ-7 Renegade is now offered with a clean Texas title in the seller’s name.  

Highlights 

• Refurbishment completed in 2024

• AMC 360ci V8 reportedly sourced from a 1977 Jeep Wagoneer  

• Rebuilt TorqueFlite 999 three-speed automatic transmission with B&M shifter 

• Refinished in shade of Oak Leaf Brown (7E) with gold accents and Renegade graphics

Factory Equipment 

• Steel body 

• Removable tan hardtop 

• Swing-away rear tire carrier 

Modifications 

• Engine 

  • Cylinders bored 0.030” over   

  • Edelbrock cam, intake, and electric choke carburetor 

  • HMI distributor   

  • Billet pulleys   

  • Bulltear oil pump with remote oil filter   

  • Dual side-exit exhaust 

• Drivetrain 

  • Rebuilt Dana 300 transfer case with dual shifters   

  • Reinforced AMC 20 full-floating axles and tubes 

  • Rebuilt wide track differentials with 3:54 gearing 

  • Dana 20 front with Lock-Right 

  • Locking rear   

  • Disc brakes at each corner 

• Exterior 

  • 15” alloy wheels mounted with 33x12.5 Dick Cepek Trail Country EXP tires 

  • Polished bumpers with front grille guard and Hella lights 

  • Receiver hitch 

  • Step plates 

• Interior 

  • Front bucket and rear bench seats upholstered in tan vinyl 

  • Leather-wrapped “Renegade” roll cage 

  • Aftermarket instrumentation   

  • Chrome-finished steering column   

  • Custom Autosound AM/FM stereo linked to aftermarket speakers   

  • CB radio    

Known Imperfections  

• Areas of rust, peeling paint, and other imperfections in the finish can be viewed in the gallery  

• Rust cutouts at the bottom of the door panels 

• Stains and wear on the front seats  

Ownership History 

• This 1978 Jeep CJ-7 reportedly received a multi-year refurbishment that was completed in 2024, and approximately 3k miles are said to have been added since.

• The seller acquired this CJ-7 via auction on Hagerty Marketplace in February 2025.

Included Items 

• Spare tire cover

Additional Notes

From the seller: "I bought this Jeep to tow behind my motorhome. It sits over seven-inches higher than stock. I can climb in, but it's too tall for some. I considered adding an extra step, but I’d have to fabricate one since the side exhaust blocks the frame mounting holes for a nerf bar. Then I started thinking about flat towing something that tall and realized it might be a little risky. We’ve found a better fit for what we wanted, so I no longer need the Jeep—though it’s definitely fun to start and drive!"