1985 Jeep CJ-7 Renegade

Location: Charleston, SC

Why It's Curated: This 1985 Jeep CJ-7 Renegade is for sale in Charleston, SC. This CJ-7 represents a thoughtfully maintained example of the final year of the iconic CJ series. The current owner has invested significantly in mechanical reliability, including a complete Holley Sniper EFI conversion with matching fuel system, new timing chain, clutch kit, and rear axle replacement. The comprehensive refresh extends to suspension components, braking system, and drivetrain maintenance that ensures dependable performance. Originally a Texas vehicle and garage-kept throughout most of its life, it benefits from a complete repaint and Rhino-lined interior for durability. The front locking differential and 31-inch BFG All-Terrains enhance its off-road capability, while the marine-grade Bluetooth audio system adds modern convenience. As the last of the CJ lineage before the YJ transition, this Renegade combines classic styling with thoughtful upgrades for both collectors and enthusiasts.

Check out the pictures in the gallery & use the contact form to get in touch with us and the seller to ask questions and/or make an offer for this vehicle.

Model History: The 1985 Jeep CJ-7 Renegade represents the culmination of nearly four decades of continuous CJ evolution, marking the final year of America's most iconic off-road lineage before Chrysler's acquisition transformed the brand. Introduced as the stretched-wheelbase successor to the CJ-5 in 1976, the CJ-7's additional ten inches provided crucial stability improvements while maintaining the raw, utilitarian character that defined the series since the civilian CJ-2A emerged from Willys' wartime MB production. The Renegade trim package, distinguished by its bold graphics and upgraded appointments, positioned the CJ-7 as both a capable trail machine and lifestyle vehicle during the height of 1980s outdoor recreation culture. AMC's 258 cubic-inch inline-six became the preferred powerplant for serious enthusiasts, offering superior torque delivery and legendary durability compared to the optional V8 or four-cylinder alternatives. By 1985, the CJ-7 had evolved into a remarkably refined machine while retaining its fundamental go-anywhere capability, featuring improved NVH characteristics and build quality that surpassed earlier iterations. The model's significance extends beyond mere transportation—it bridged the gap between military-derived utility vehicles and the emerging SUV market that would dominate the following decades. With only 83,345 CJ-7s produced in its final year, the 1985 model represents both the end of an era and the perfection of a formula that influenced every subsequent Jeep design. Today, these final-year examples are increasingly recognized as the most desirable CJ-7 variants, combining four decades of evolutionary refinement with the authentic character that modern interpretations struggle to replicate.

Vehicle Details:
Year: 1985
Make: Jeep
Model: CJ-7
Trim: Renegade
Drive: 4 x 4
Miles: 180,287
Mileage Verification: Actual Miles
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Transmission: Manual (3 pedals)
Number of Forward Gears: 5
Engine: 4.2 L 258 straight 6
Exterior Color: Olympic White
Interior Color: Tan
State of Registration: South Carolina
Vehicle Location: Charleston, SC
VIN: Available Upon Request
Title: Clean

Details:

Engine & Transmission:
Holley Sniper Fuel Injection

Drivetrain, Suspension, Tires & Brakes:

Locking Differentials: Front Locking Differential
Wheel Size and Offset: 31 x 10.5 BFG tires with 1 inch spacers
Tire Brand, Model, and Size: 31 x 10.5 BFG All Terrain purchased 10/21

Exterior & Interior:
Previous owner repainted the entire Jeep and rhino lined the interior. The driver side front fender was also replaced.

Vinyl interior
The front seats were replace, Linwood marine Bluetooth unit and 6 x 9 speakers with box were added.
Working Heat: Yes
Working Air Conditioning: No

Other Notable Features or Functions:
I purchased this in 2021. This was a Texas Jeep for most of its life and has been Garage kept the majority of the time Holley sniper fuel injection was added in 2023 along with a new Holly fuel tank and in tank fuel pump. Since ownership the master cylinder was replaced for the brakes, new shocks, Power steering repaired, new timing chain, clutch kit, rear main seal, flywheel, new Flowmaster muffler, new catalytic converter, distributor, upgraded alternator, valve cover, and new rear axle. The front rotor brakes were repaired and new brake pads.

Recent Maintenance:
See above

Mechanical, Rust, Cosmetic Known Flaws:
The door handles do not lock, and the passenger side door handle is slightly loose. The windshield wipers work intermittently. I have a new wiper motor which will be included in the sale.