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Turbocharged 1974 DJ5 Postal Jeep: A One-of-a-Kind Build

Explore Joey 'GotBars' Bars' journey in transforming a 1974 DJ5 Postal Jeep into a unique, turbocharged showstopper.

Mr2mivin

Turbocharged 1974 DJ5 Postal Jeep

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Joey Bars

1974 DJ5 POSTAL JEEP

Instagram: @gotbars510

Photographer: Marvin Recinos

Instagram: @mr2mivin

Introduction

Hey there! I'm Joey, but most folks know me as "GotBars" or just "Bars." I'm a kid from Alameda, CA—zip code 94501, right in the heart of the Bay Area. Back in 2013 or 2014, my business partner, Terp, and I started a brand called "BrokeBoyz." It's more than just a name; it's a lifestyle. We've got our hands in everything: clothing, cannabis, drifting, a car club, a BMX team—you name it. We're always pushing to expand and evolve.

Turbocharged 1974 DJ5 Postal Jeep

The Spark That Ignited My Passion for Cars

My deep dive into the car world began with Terp. He's a true car enthusiast, owning over 20 custom-built vehicles. Watching him work his magic on these cars was nothing short of inspiring. One day, we thought, "Why not build something totally out of the box?" That's when we decided to take on a project that no one else would dare attempt—a mail truck transformation.

Why a Postal Jeep?

We chose the 1974 DJ5 Postal Jeep because we knew it was a challenge that few would take on. It's not every day you see a turbocharged postal jeep cruising down the street. We wanted to create something unique, something that would turn heads and spark conversations.

Turbocharged 1974 DJ5 Postal Jeep

The Build: A Labor of Love

Every inch of this Jeep has been customized. Here's what we've done:

Engine: Original 232CI Inline 6 Cylinder AMC engine, now turbocharged for that extra kick.
Transmission: Floor shifter automatic transmission for smooth gear changes.
Suspension: Mustang II independent front suspension and a triangular 4-link rear suspension setup.
Steering: Manual rack & pinion for precise control.
Frame: Body dropped with a C-notched frame to achieve that low stance.
Rear End: 10-bolt rear end with a factory limited-slip differential.
Brakes: Front disc brakes for improved stopping power.
Drive: Right-hand drive, staying true to its postal roots.
Interior: Custom metal flooring with alligator skin seats and Auto Meter dash gauges.
Unique Touches: Custom “Envelope” brake pedal, Airlift Performance airbags, custom front & rear bumpers, HornBlasters train horn, and LED headlights

Driving this Jeep feels like piloting a luxury go-kart. It's wild on the freeway—people constantly stop to take videos and pictures. The attention it garners is unreal, and I absolutely love it.

Turbocharged 1974 DJ5 Postal Jeep

Who Brought This Vision to Life?

The transformation wouldn't have been possible without the incredible team at Illegal Speed Shop in Sparks, Nevada. Their expertise and dedication turned our wild idea into a reality.