More Legroom in a CJ-3B

Lengthen the Seat Arms

by Ed Wilson

Due to a disabling back problem and my size, I decided to move the driver's seat back about four inches in order to enjoy my 1954 3B again. (See No Spring Chicken on CJ3B.info.)

The first issue was the rear wheel well which was recessed as shown. We used the existing front of the wheel well to complete this.

The front seat frame arms have to be lengthened.

Or the inboard arm can be bent as we did.

To complete the accommodations for my needs, I added aftermarket side steps and I now remove the steering wheel to enter or exit, as suggested by Copperswilly when he picked up his part I sold him.

I can enjoy the Jeep again!

Both Sides at Once

by Gary Stanley Gustafson

This is how I cut the wheelhouses on my '53 CJ-3B to move the seats back. I merely measured and cut the front surface of each, then flipped them upside down and installed on opposite side. This is my own original design and was done in 2014. I used masking tape to show the panel shape and cut lines.

This is the driver's side. The measurement is 6-3/8" at the cut.

This shows the passenger side with the cut out piece; it will fit on the driver's side when flipped over. BTW, this Jeep had stock suspension and I installed LT235/75R-15 mud tires and used 1" pads between tub and frame.

I didn't eliminate or add any metal. The two pieces have the same size and profile, just flipped upside down and swapped sides, so cutting must be precise!

I gained about 6" on the floor where the seats mount. I installed newer style CJ seats and I'm 6'2" -- it fits me good. This plan should work on any flatfender or early CJ-5 but the dimensions may be different.

Thanks to Ed and Gary for the photos of their projects. -- Derek Redmond