Custom builds take many forms, and the finished product typically reflects the creator’s taste. Some builders follow a conventional path, while others choose what I will call a more eclectic approach. Such is the case with this 1986 Jeep CJ-7. It would be easy to mistake its exterior for a wrap job, but it is covered in expired state-issued plates. The seller’s approach is admirable because they bent and attached each plate by hand. I hate to imagine how long the process took. They’ve had fun and decided the time is right for a new owner to experience the same pleasure. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Chris W for spotting a classic that is undoubtedly unique.

The seller is this Jeep’s second owner. They located it hidden away from the light of day in a location it had occupied for over a decade. They don’t elaborate on the storage environment, but it seems the Jeep was begging for TLC when they brought it home. They decided to repair a couple of small holes utilizing expired license plates, which is quite common in the ratrod scene. However, the work took on a life of its own, and the entire exterior received the treatment. They christened the Jeep “Patches,” a cute name that seems appropriate. I admire their attention to detail because they bent every plate to accommodate the Jeep’s original shape and then hand-riveted each plate into place. That wouldn’t have taken five minutes because there are 300 plates and over 3,000 rivets. They chose the patriotic approach because there is at least one plate from every state cloaking its exterior. My only qualm is that there is a chance that moisture could become trapped between the plates and the original steel, causing hidden rust problems. The rest of the exterior is genuine Jeep, from its side steps to the fender flares and Rally wheels. The seller doesn’t mention any existing rust problems, and the trim and glass are in good order.

This Jeep’s exterior might be unconventional, but its drivetrain is as it left the factory. The 258ci six-cylinder engine sends 112hp and 210 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a five-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The figures don’t sound impressive, but the low-end delivery explains why the CJ-7 developed a reputation for climbing deep into the wilderness. The seller claims the vehicle has 81,000 genuine miles on the clock, and it appears they may hold verifying evidence. They splashed some cash on the revival, replacing the battery, radiator, brake lines, master cylinder, alternator, hoses, belts, power steering hydraulic lines, plugs, wires, ignition box, fuel pump, and other parts. “Patches” is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives well. Everything works as it should, ready for adventure with a new owner behind the wheel.

The first owner stripped the Jeep’s interior before placing it into storage, leaving the seller to pick up the pieces and put them back together. They did so with many new parts, including seatcovers, a console, and other items as required. It presents pretty well, with slight pad deterioration the only flaw worth noting. The seats look good, and the sturdy rollbar is a wise investment for occupant protection. The first owner ordered the CJ-7 with air conditioning. The system is intact but doesn’t blow cold. The buyer may choose to investigate this, although enjoying what Mother Nature provides for free would be tempting.

I am under no illusions because I know that “Patches” won’t appeal to everyone. However, there is something enticing about owning an off-roader where the typical blemishes accumulated while delving into the wilderness can be addressed by riveting on a new license plate. The seller has listed the Jeep here on Craigslist in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. They set their price at $23,500, although they may consider reasonable offers. Recent sales results suggest that the figure is consistent with a spotless and unmolested example. However, this Jeep rewrites the rules and is worth what someone is willing to pay. Do you find yourself drawn to “Patches?” If so, would you be willing to pay the seller’s price for this genuinely unique vehicle?