'66 CJ-5 Finally got it! Stubborn Seller

by Tony Kembro
(St. Augustine, Fl)

Hello Classic Jeepers,

Here is my 1966 Jeep CJ-5. I have admired this Jeep for 3 years, after I became friends with its owner. He has owned this Jeep from the dealer that was purchased by his father for him as a teenager. I made outrageous offers to buy it, but all I ever got was "not for sale".

I was deployed back to Iraq, and upon each return I would go visit my friend and continue my badgering for him to sell it to me. He and I both have other Jeeps ('92 Wrangler YJ) and CJ-7 we have been restoring over the years.

I returned from Afghanistan from this tour, and as it has become our joke, I offered to buy the "worn out ole piece of junk", and he said OK make me an offer. We came to a figure. I had to add conditions like I would not "ruin" (his words) it like I did my YJ...(6" lift, 35" tires and $7000 worth of trimmings).

I agreed to keep it original, and I aim to keep that vow. It has 51,640 original miles on it. He touted that he was a "rock crawler" before it was cool. I doubted it until I saw the custom roll cage (attached to the frame). His Dad had mandated the cage be installed before he let him drive it on his own.

I look forward to getting this CJ5 back to its former glory. I am in Afghanistan right now, but I am excited to get started on that restoration. I have garnered tons of tips and ideas from your members, and thanks to your classic Jeep site.

I look forward to many years of viewing. Most folks see it as an "old Jeep" but you guys understand as goes the saying...."It's a Jeep thing...You wouldn't understand".

Respectfully,

Tony Kembro


Larry's Comment: Tony...first, let me thank you for your service to our country.

That fine '66 CJ-5 looks to have been worth the long wait. Nice to have good Jeep friends. I hope more Jeep Lovers will send their stories and photos to ( Your Jeep Page ) so that we all can share the fun and joy they bring.

Thanks again Tony...God Bless and come home safe.