Texas Tractor: 1969 Jeep CJ-5 20K Survivor – SOLD!

August 15, 2023, Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing less than one week after posting it, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar. Rust-free vintage Jeeps are hard to come by and when offered at under five large, we were not at all surprised to see this CJ-5 get scooped up so quickly.

The average size of a Texas ranch today is 411 acres.  That’s a lot of ground to cover to maintain and keep your cattle in check.  Before farm equipment manufacturers started offering side-by-side Utility Vehicles (known as “UTVs), many Texas ranches relied on bare-bones Jeep CJs.  Faster than a tractor yet capable of being driven on the “FM” (Farm-to-Market) roads dotting the Texas landscape,  Jeep CJs were often called upon to be a tough yet simple ranch hand you could put away wet.

With only 20K original miles, this white 1969 Jeep CJ-5 survivor for sale, last spotted in August 2023 on Craigslist in Weatherford, Texas (Fort Worth), is a prime example.  This Jeep features its original paint and the name of the ranch it worked on (Mistletoe) hand painted on the tailgate.  While the vintage Ramsey PTO winch likely helped with many tasks on the Mistletoe Ranch, we’re a bit confused about the need for a front tow bar. Perhaps the seller can elaborate on why the original owner needed to tow this CJ-5.

Last offered for only $4,200 or best offer, Classic.com, the analytics and search engine for the collector car market, confirms the ask is well below this guide’s six-month rolling results trend for similar CJ-5s produced between 1955 and 1983.  By clicking on the green dots in the graph below, you can get a sense of what comparable examples sold for recently:

As a second data point, the  Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the seller’s ask is less than this guide’s #4 “Fair” (Daily Driver)  appraisal of $4,425.

The 1969 Jeep CJ-5, also known as the Jeep Universal CJ-5, is a compact, rugged, and versatile utility vehicle that was part of the CJ (Civilian Jeep) series produced by the American automaker Jeep. The CJ-5 was one of the most iconic and enduring vehicles in Jeep’s lineup, known for its off-road capabilities, simple design, and utilitarian nature. Here’s a detailed description of the 1969 Jeep CJ-5:

The CJ-5’s exterior design was characterized by its compact dimensions, boxy shape, and open-top configuration. It featured a sturdy body-on-frame construction with a short wheelbase that contributed to its excellent maneuverability on and off the trails. The exterior had a no-nonsense, functional appearance, embodying the Jeep brand’s commitment to ruggedness and durability.

The CJ-5’s body was constructed with a mix of steel and rugged materials, ensuring it could withstand the rigors of off-road adventures. The removable doors and top allowed for an open-air driving experience, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts. The fold-down windshield added to the vehicle’s versatile design.

The 1969 CJ-5 was available with various engine options, including inline-four and inline-six engines. The most common engine choices were the 2.2-liter “Hurricane” inline-four engine and the 3.7-liter “Dauntless” V6 engine. These engines were known for their simplicity and durability, making them well-suited for off-road applications. Power output varied, but it typically ranged from around 75 to 155 horsepower, depending on the engine configuration.

The CJ-5 featured a manual transmission, often a 3-speed or 4-speed manual gearbox, which allowed drivers to have more control over the vehicle’s power delivery, particularly in off-road situations. The vehicle’s four-wheel-drive (4WD) system, combined with solid axles and rugged suspension components, gave it excellent traction and articulation for tackling challenging terrains.

The interior of the CJ-5 was spartan and functional, consistent with its utilitarian design. It offered basic seating for two passengers up front and a small rear bench seat for additional passengers. The instrument cluster featured minimal gauges to monitor essential vehicle information, and the interior materials were durable and designed to withstand the elements.

The CJ-5’s off-road capabilities were at the heart of its appeal. Its short wheelbase, high ground clearance, and rugged drivetrain components allowed it to navigate through difficult terrain, including mud, rocks, and steep inclines. Its small size made it highly maneuverable, making it an ideal choice for exploring trails and conquering obstacles.

The 1969 Jeep CJ-5, along with its earlier and later iterations, played a significant role in shaping the off-road and SUV market. Its durability, simplicity, and off-road prowess attracted a dedicated following, and the CJ-5 became a symbol of outdoor adventure and exploration. The CJ-5’s legacy continues to influence modern Jeep vehicles, and its impact on off-road culture is still felt today.

Overall, the 1969 Jeep CJ-5 was a rugged and iconic vehicle that embodied the spirit of adventure and off-road exploration. Its straightforward design, capable drivetrain, and open-air experience made it a beloved choice for enthusiasts seeking to traverse the unbeaten path.

The Periscope Films YouTube Channel features this vintage Kaiser film showing how effectively the company marketed the Jeep as a post-World War II civilian tractor alternative:

With only 20K original miles and its original paint featuring “Mistletoe Ranch” hand-lettered on its tailgate, this 1969 Jeep CJ-5 survivor for sale raises an interesting dilemma.  On one hand, a future caretaker could keep this Jeep as-is, and the value would remain inexpensive.  Conversely, if they restore it, this CJ-5 might be worth more, but the story an uniqueness would be lost. We hope the next caretaker simply clearcoats this existing exterior paint and then goes to town rebuilding and refreshing everything else.

If you are serious about buying this CJ-5, you can start the conversation by using the contact information provided by the seller in their Craigslist ad.  When you connect, please mention that you saw their Jeep survivor featured here on GuysWithRides.com. Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

Restore or keep as is: What would you do with this 1969 Jeep CJ-5 survivor for sale?  Please comment below and let us know!