My Willys 3A and 3B Community
Your Projects => Your CJ-3A Project => Topic started by: athawk11 on January 08, 2020, 10:05:14 AM
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This is generally a quiet time for the 3A/3B/DJ Page. No trail runs, gatherings or Willys Picnics this time of year. There are also less 'winter' Willys projects. Speaking for myself, I've grown far less tolerant of cold weather and cold garages.
Since it's quiet, I thought I would share the story of my first Willys Refurbishment. We didn't have a "Projects" page years ago, so I never really got a chance to tell the story.
It all started for me in 1991. My neighbor had an old jeep sitting in his yard when I moved into the neighborhood. He used it for hunting mostly, but as the years passed, I noticed that it never moved. He wasn't hunting anymore. He was getting older. I asked him a half dozen times to sell it to me. I really wanted that Jeep, but he couldn't let it go.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/07/CJ5Mohan.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvzb6)
The years moved on. I eventually moved away. He passed away a few years ago. I don't know what happened to this Jeep, but since then, I've wanted one.
In 2010, my wife Rachel started getting a hankering for some kind of convertible. She was fixated on a Karmann Ghia. I threw up a ton of "red flags". The most common concerns were "We aren't rolling in cash." "I don't know how to fix/maintain a vehicle like that." Honestly, I had no idea how to fix or maintain any kind of vehicle. I could do the regular stuff like oil changes, filters, new batteries, etc., but that was it.
I needed to find a compromise with Rachel. Perhaps I could talk her into a Jeep? It's the ultimate convertible. It's 4 wheel drive, and I've wanted one since 1991. I suggested it, and to my surprise, she didn't scoff at the idea. In fact, she (not me) started to scan Craigslist for a Jeep. I didn't know she was looking for one. A few months had passed and I figured she had gotten beyond the desire for a convertible, but she hadn't. She showed me this...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/07/Willys3July2010.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvJhg)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/07/Willys27_3_20103-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvDly)
So, the story begins...
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So I guess we have Rachel to thank for OD. Very nice! Will we ever see her yellow jeep on the trails? And how about Blackie? Still waiting, Tim...
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Yes, I give Rachel full credit for ODie. She set me on a different path that I have thoroughly enjoyed over the past 10 years. I would have never met so many terrific people if it weren't for her.
I haven't brought the yellow 3A (Whitey) to any trail events because I don't have a top for it. You know how dicey the weather has been on some of the trail rides lately. Jpet is going to start making tops for 3As. I'm thinking about getting on his docket.
I changed the name on the black 2A to "Smokey". :( I'll eventually have time to open that one up. I have to keep some promises to Rachel first. (bathroom remodels)
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The details:
1949 Willys CJ-3A
Serial: 36662
G P W L-134 engine with no serial number
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/10/2010-11-21-017.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvIlc)
The known history is a pretty short story. For the 35 years prior to my purchase, the owner used it to plow the snow from his small car dealership lot in Lakewood, Colorado. He was a shade tree mechanic and did a decent job of maintaining it. Once the car dealership closed, he kept it, but it sat for a few years until he decided to sell it. By the time I showed up, it was running again, and he had done a light rebuild on the T-90 transmission and TC. We haggled a bit on price, ($1,500.00) then I drove it home.
That trip home was one of the more harrowing rides of my life. It ran fine, but it didn't stop. The brakes were horrible. I kept to the back streets and planned well ahead of time when I needed to stop.
Like many of us, I wish I knew more of the history. At the time of purchase, I just wasn't concerned about it. As the first few weeks went by, I wanted to know more, but I didn't want to bother the seller. I tried to find him a few years later, but was not successful. I lost the original bill of sale.
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That's a good price for a runner. But now I'm confused, are we still talking about OD? 'Cause OD has a lower ser. #. This must be the 3A that became Rachel's jeep (the yellow one). Am I right? Smokey is the 2A, right? Have you made any progress on the motor rebuild for Smokey? Or are you still up to your elbows in home remodeling?
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Hi Tom,
You might have missed my post...before this last post. I answered a couple of your questions.
This thread is basically a look-back at ODie. I have a ton of pictures, and thought some might find it fun to see the successes and failures through the process.
The yellow 3A (Whitey) is the fairly early 1949 3A - #13655. ODie is a late 1949 3A -#36662 .
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Got it! I always thought OD was the early 3A but see now that Whitey is the early 3A. As I recall, we found that you, me, and Tumbleweed all have early 3A's that were likely mfg. the same month - maybe Jan. '49 as I recall. Bruce L. (Calnderman?) has one of the last 2A's built - maybe Dec. '48 or Jan. '49. Pretty cool!
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Tom,
Do you happen to know Bruce L’s serial #? Dave R (Realdeal) has a very late CJ2-A too. BW
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Tom,
Do you happen to know Bruce L’s serial #? Dave R (Realdeal) has a very late CJ2-A too. BW
I don't know the #, BW. He did tell me once but, well...
As I recall, it even had some original equipment that you would normally see on a 3A. In fact, if my memory serves, it is on a 3A frame. I'm not 100% on that, but something like that. It has to be one of the last 2A's and may have come off the line just before mine (14768). He restored it about 25 years ago and it was an "all original" jeep at that time. And he's tried to keep it that way. He rebuilds everything! But I know he did have to break down and put on a new volts reg. this fall. Tried to fix the OE unit but just couldn't get it to run right.
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I really didn't know what to do with it once I got it home. I parked it and stared at it for a few days. I knew I needed to fix the brakes, then get the title and license plates taken care of.
Looked to the internet and started to read. I discovered the 2A, 3A, G503 Forums among other resources. I learned why I couldn't down shift into 1st gear while moving and how to tackle the brake issues. I got the title transferred and the license plates.
I drove it (with very little confidence) over to visit a body shop guy I know. In modern shops, they default to replacing every single panel that isn't perfect. By the time I left, my head was spinning. He suggested replacing every piece of sheet metal except the windshield. I certainly wasn't going to do that.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/14/willys-repro-tub.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvteL)
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I mulled around for a while trying to decide what to do with this. I liked the military feel, so I bought some camo green spray paint and went to town on it. This could have been the end of the story. It ran okay. It now stopped when I pushed the pedal. What more could I want?
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/14/Willysgreen1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvbuo)
Well, through multiple internet searches, I fell hard for the M38. When I learned that the M38 was the little brother of the 3A I owned, I decided to make mine in that image. I did not want to misrepresent, I just wanted to hang tools on the exterior surface. I mean, how cool is that? 8)
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The Snowball Effect...
Many of you have experienced what happened next. My initial intentions were to clean it up, add a nicer paint job, add some M38 features, then have some fun. The next thing I knew, this 3A was in a thousand separate parts spread all over my garage. One repair led to the next repair, which led to another...and so on. I couldn't stop myself. This was the first time in my life that I realized I was a bit obsessive.
Remember too that this was in 2010. The economy was in shambles. I couldn't justify hiring anything out. If this was going to happen, I was going to have to learn to do it myself.
The progression to the point-of-no-return happened slowly at first. I knew I wanted a decent paint job, so I started to scrape, strip and sand the sheet metal. This process exposed the first real challenge. Rust, pitted panels, dents, disintegrated metal.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/16/2010-12-31-012.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jv5Au)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/16/2010-12-31-011.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvx8Q)
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Can't wait to see what happened next......could probably make a pretty good guess though.....keep the pictures coming!
Randy
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Hi Randy,
You're right, it does work out in the end. ;)
My main reason for doing this is to add content to our site during a traditionally slow time of the year. I have a bunch of old photos taken during the project and figure some folks might enjoy watching my failures and successes. :)
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The sheet metal condition wasn't too bad when compared to some of the other Jeeps on this site. (Check out: "Too Rusty to Save?") That said, I wasn't going to be able to leave it this way.
I needed a welder and to learn how to weld sheet metal. Remember your first time? Wow. I was bad at this. I learned to stick weld years ago but this was a whole different animal. I burned through. I didn't get good penetration. I didn't clean the surface well enough. This was a brutal lesson, and one that frustrated me beyond belief.
Eventually, things started to click. I replaced the smaller rusted and damage spots, and slowly worked up the courage to do larger repairs. You can see my patch panels in this photo. Seems like there is always damage in the tire carrier location. There was a rusty hole at the side wall support in front of the wheel well. Also, the toolbox area side wall was replaced. All pretty normal spots to fail after 70 years.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/17/2010-12-31-014.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvKwe)
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It seems to be shaping up nicely. I too went to the school of "Burn to Learn", and found even the weather made a difference for me. Of course, "after" I was done, someone suggested placing aluminum behind the surface, if possible, to take out some of the heat, but I've never tried it yet. Has anyone else heard of and/or tried that tip? Thanks for keeping the story going. It goes well with my coffee every morning.
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...someone suggested placing aluminum behind the surface, if possible, to take out some of the heat, but I've never tried it yet. Has anyone else heard of and/or tried that tip?
Use copper or bronze or brass as a backing material. I use brass strip clamped in behind the joint. It doesn't stick to steel and the melting temperature is much higher than aluminum so it will not melt as easily if you set your welder too high.
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I flattened 1" hard copper tubing and bent a right angle on it. The copper works good to keep from burning through if the heat is too high. Trial and error welding.
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Excellent suggestions Gentlemen. I too learned that backing up my welds with copper really helped. Particularly while filling in the multiple drilled holes we all come across.
The patchwork welding on the side walls was going well. I did have to learn how to 'shrink' metal...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/21/2011-03-27-004.jpg)
There were glaring problems with the floors and the hat channels. I just didn't think I was going to be able to make the thing look nice without addressing them. I couldn't figure out how to fix them without removing the tub. I thought about it for a while, then came up with this...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/21/2010-12-31-023.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvZr5)
After pulling the tub, I got a good look at the damage. I purchased the front floor pans and hat channel kits from one of the vendors and started hacking away at them...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/21/2010-12-31-038.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvUmq)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/21/2010-12-31-001.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jvNt0)
On to the cargo area.
The metal was pretty pitted and sagged horribly. I couldn't afford a new cargo floor, so I removed the damaged cargo hat channels, made a dolly that fit the ribs and started 'working' them back in to shape. It had clearly lost some strength, so I installed extra hat channels and supports on the underside. It turned out nice. This took hours and hours of effort. It saved me some cash and was a good learning experience.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/21/2011-01-31-001.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jveuJ)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/21/2011-01-31-008.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jv11V)
I did have to fix my toolbox walls and a bunch of repairs to the fenders, but I didn't take photos. With regard to welding, I was pretty close to finished. There was just one more thing...
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I wanted to add tool indents. With the help of a drawing created by Jpet (Jeff Petrovich) at the 2A Page, I started to hack away at the tub. I made the indents first, then cut the matching dimensions from the side of my tub. I was fighting the natural tendency of sheet metal to warp when it's welded. I got it all back together but not without a fight. My mistake was cutting both slots out of the tub before welding the indents in place.
If you ever want try this, I recommend you cut just one of the indent slots at a time.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/22/Indents1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFozk)
This is my wife Rachel. She was showing me some tricks.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/23/2011-01-25-003.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFCm6)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/23/2011-01-25-004.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFHfy)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2017/10/04/Toolindentsfitday.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/VA98)
I wasn't confident enough in my skills to do this stuff, so I got into the good habit of test fitting everything I modified. You'll notice the seats are also in place. These are 2A seats that came with this 3A. Many of you know the complication that creates. More on that later.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/23/2011-03-27-005.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFSuM)
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Hawky, when you get into it, you go all the way. Love your style. You also can do just about anything you put your mind to. I appreciate that. Oilly
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Thanks Oily!
It's not too bad for my first attempt, but it pales in comparison to your stuff. :)
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I had pretty much wrapped up the repair patches and welding. There would be some additional things that needed these types of repairs and mods. There were even some additional mods to consider, like a glovebox or removeable gauge cluster mounting plate.
Pulling the tub exposed just how filthy the frame and drivetrain were. I had that "Lipstick on a Pig"/ "Uh-Oh, better get Maco" paint job moment. Just cleaning up the top side wasn't going work for me...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/29/2010-12-31-016.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jF2Va)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/29/2010-12-31-017.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFiED)
Initially I was terrified to take this apart and then not being able to put it back together. I started to clean and scrub away the crud...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/29/2011-04-20-005.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFPzA)
Not too far into this effort, I realized I would never be able to get it clean enough to do a simple paint job without pulling off some of the pieces. I pulled a few, then a few more. I bagged and marked the nuts, bolts and screws. I took lots of pictures along the way, in hope that I could refer to them when the time came to put it back together.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/29/2011-05-02-021.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFOMo)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/29/2011-05-02-025.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFyoH)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/29/2011-05-02-012.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFf4F)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/01/29/2011-04-20-008.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFRfc)
I didn't work in any obvious way... because nothing was obvious to me. This was all new. It was some kind of nightmare I couldn't wake up from.
I eventually pushed passed my fears and started getting stuff done.
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Ahhhhhh,
A "fixin' up a Jeep" fix.
I have tool indent envy.
Thanks Hawk
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The disassembly continued. Because of my lack of knowledge, I would occasionally pull stuff apart, then immediately put it back together. I wanted to make sure I learned how to do it.
This was the first engine I ever pulled. That was a big day.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/05/2011-05-22-047.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFhn5)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/05/2011-05-22-058.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFI9t)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/05/2011-05-22-068.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFn4N)
It's a G.P.W. version of the L-134. At the time, I didn't understand why, but there were a few folks that wanted this engine.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/05/2011-05-22-006.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFgPV)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/05/2011-05-22-005.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFuNz)
All in all, there is nothing particularly interesting about it. The only stamping is shown below and it didn't mean anything to the experts.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/05/2010-10-14-005.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jF6Yp)
After a little research I figured that it was probably just a surplus engine sold off by Ford following the end of WWII. It likely sat on a shelf at an auto supply house for quite some time before ending up in this 3A. I found out later that it still has the standard size pistons and crankshaft journals, so it's probably not been through a rebuild.
It ran pretty nice (though I had nothing to compare it to) so my plan was to clean it, replace gaskets and paint it.
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I bought a cheap sand blaster from Harbor Freight that worked surprisingly well removing rust on lots of parts, the frame and axles. After sandblasting and some welding repairs on the frame, I set the tub, grille, fenders and axles one last time before painting.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-08-023.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFc6y)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-08-026.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFxMM)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-08-030.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFEO6)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-08-032.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFLck)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-08-028.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwQZF)
I decided to use the MasterSeries Silver anti-rust primer as my base. It has several desirable qualities. After this layer, I primed the parts with Red Oxide, then finally Gilespie's 23070 Semi-Gloss OD paint.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-08-011.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwVXe)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-08-001.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwpaQ)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-09-003.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwYk0)
I continued to clean and paint the bits and pieces...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-05-22-009.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwHxi)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-05-02-007.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwCDu)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-06-30-013.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwoTf)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-05-22-003.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFZ6c)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-06-04-001.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwm0L)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-05-22-076.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jF1XD)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-25-006.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFTY8)
Time to reassemble the chassis...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-25-016.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFUDa)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/10/2011-07-25-003.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jFWcA)
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There was one engine modification I needed to address before the chassis could be put back together. This engine was equipped with this special part that allowed the 2A/MB/G.P.W. style engine to be installed on a 3A frame.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2017/10/04/20151227_110041.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/mNhf)
I didn't want to re-use it, so I decided to change the front engine plate to a 3A style. There is no option for a 3A style front plate that is compatible with a chain drive motor. This created a small problem...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2017/10/04/Frontengineplate.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/HPcA)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2017/10/04/Frontengineplatecloseup.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/HykH)
I simply welded the gap shut on this 3A plate. There were other minor changes required to the plate, but nothing a grinder couldn't solve.
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Just some detailed chassis shots...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/13/2011-08-06-007.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwRxt)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/13/2011-08-06-015.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwsaz)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/13/2011-08-06-017.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwriJ)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/13/2011-08-06-018.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwdZN)
Cleaned, flushed and painted the bottom mount radiator.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/13/2011-08-06-027.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwPT5)
Kind of a unique radiator cap. It looks like an original cap but with an added lever pin. Unfortunately, the seal gave out on this only months later. I couldn't find a replacement seal.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/13/2012-06-30-003.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwaIq)
Got the 7.00 x 15" NDCCs mounted, balanced, installed.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/13/2011-08-06-001.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwOpk)
Chassis start up day. Added fluids and basic ignition circuit wiring only. The engine fired right up.
I didn't do it on this project, but at this stage I generally recommend running the chassis around the neighborhood for a few trips before installing the tub.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/13/2011-09-16-034.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jw2BV)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/13/2011-10-23-003.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwyGp)
Overall, the chassis assembly was a success. I learned a lot. I cursed a lot. I bled a lot.
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Beautiful detailing. It looks "factory fresh".
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Thanks Steve. And thanks for looking in. :)
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If you've been following along, you may have spotted a number of 'modifications' from original in my photos. Every single change made by prior owners would eventually come back and bite me in some way. I also personally created one issue by purchasing a fuel pump that was not the original style. It was cheaper. Sometimes "cheap" works out okay. Other times...not so much.
Other modified items include a Solex Carb, a really weird PCV valve, a distributor that is not the original design, a strange heater hose setup and 2A seat frames in a CJ3A. There might be more, but this is what came to mind today.
So anyway, the work shifted back to the tub.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/17/2011-09-16-007.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jwDU2)
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Looking at all your dolly work in between the floor hat channels is giving me pain. :'( Oilly
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Oh, by the way Hawky, I know where there is a red mud hill I can take you to---------------------AGAIN! 8)
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Leaker,
I would join you on any muddy hill you can find. And it doesn't even need to be red!
It's now September of 2011. It's been just over a year since I purchased this 3A.
I had never done body work, filler work etc. I could go on for paragraphs about this part of the refurbishment, but I won't. Let's just say I got pretty good at it, but I hated it.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2017/10/04/Rearviewofseatsduringmockup.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/VvVQ)
I coated the tub with the same combination of finishes that were used on the chassis. Master Series Silver, Red Oxide then the Olive Drab. I did this in three stages. Bottom, interior surfaces, then exterior surfaces. I had never painted a vehicle before. If I had more faith in my skills, I might have tried a different approach, but I was worried I would get that dry over-spray on the finished surfaces, or accidentally brushing up against it while painting.
I started with the underside because if I did a horrible job, it would be less noticeable.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-09-20-003.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDVpa)
When I got to the topside, I built a makeshift paint booth in my garage.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-10-21-029.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDYkA)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-10-21-023.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDaID)
I masked off areas that had already been painted. When all said and done, it turned out nice. Either I was a natural at painting cars or the paint I used was very forgiving.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-10-21-009.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDqQH)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-10-21-013.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDHx8)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-10-23-030.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDoTg)
In the last photo you see the extra seat perches I needed to make the 2A seats work with the 3A tube.
I finally got to set the tub. I didn't get any photos of my process. I was too focused on not scratching the paint.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-10-23-006.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j9ZIl)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-10-23-010.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDQZ6)
I set up the gas tank and seats, then drove it around my neighborhood a half dozen times.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-11-20-017.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j91Xt)
I got the fenders, hood and grille painted.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-11-26-009.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j9Mkk)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-11-20-006.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDliy)
I started installing some of the M38 features.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/20/2011-11-26-011.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j9UDz)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/21/2011-11-26-016.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDric)
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It's looking great! I'm jealous - its going to be a good while before I'm ready to remove my top.
I like the paint booth too.
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Thank you Squishy!! :) I appreciate it.
Things started to come together quickly. At this stage of bolting it all together, everything was fun.
I stained, painted and mounted the tools.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/25/2011-11-26-012.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDvIe)
I found these really cool taillights that are similar in design to the M38 blackout stuff, but these have the full lenz for better vision. They are originally from a Gamma-Goat. I replaced the 24 volt bulbs with the 12v equivalent.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/25/2011-12-09-001-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDkvi)
I fought the glass into the windshield and got it mounted, along with the fender mounted blackout light and hood blocks.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/25/2011-12-18-006.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDyGf)
The rest of the engine bay and dash went well. Walck's wire harnesses are terrific.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/25/2011-12-31-010-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDR5Q)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/25/2012-01-21-008-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDOpu)
My wife got me the canvas top for Christmas. I made the rope (loop eyes) for the front bumper.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/25/2012-01-21-001-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDsaL)
It is now January of 2012.
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One thing that was initially a little inexplicable...
I bought the seat covers and cushions for Beachwood Canvas. The bottom cushion for M38 is 6" thick. I'm not tall, (5'8") but this size cushion elevated me to a point where I had to scrunch down to see out the windshield. I didn't know this at the time, but 2A seat frame crossmembers sit up higher than 3A and M38 seat frame crossmembers.
The Beachwood folks were great. They were perfectly willing to swap out the taller cushions for some 3" versions at no cost.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/26/2011-12-31-019.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jD9BN)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/26/2012-06-26-022.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDzsq)
I found a brand new, never issued set of 1949 Colorado license plates on Ebay. Like many states, Colorado allows you to run with DOM plates as long as you have it licensed with real plates. You just need to have the real plate and registration with you.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/26/2012-02-13-004.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jD3G5)
I didn't really have the room to mount them in the traditional places, so I made some custom brackets...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/26/2012-02-29-045.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDJdV)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/02/26/2012-02-13-007-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jDDUJ)
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After driving it around a bit I found the steering to be a little sloppy. I took it apart and rebuilt the steering components...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/03/2012-02-29-005.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJS4D)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/03/2012-02-29-017.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJdnF)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/03/2012-02-29-004.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJCoa)
I got some traditional stencils and added them to the Jeep. I did a little research and found that the first military unit to arrive in Korea at the beginning of the war was the 24th Infantry Division, 11th Field Artillery Battalion, so I chose that group for my bumper lettering.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/03/2012-03-06-002.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJa2c)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/03/2012-03-11-004.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJjKg)
I wasn't satisfied with the 3A headlight bezels. They didn't look right. I found NOS M38 bezels and headlight buckets. I installed them on the 3A grill. It required some minor trimming on the grill. This was well worth the effort. The M38 bezels make the front look a little more mean and nasty...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/03/2012-02-29-054-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJXE8)
Before and After front end comparison. . .
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/03/2012-01-21-007-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJVMH)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/03/2012-03-09-007.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJHfA)
I had an old canvas tarp laying around, so I made bags to store my new canvas top.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/03/2012-03-21-004-1.md.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJQ8M)
The first short trip we took was to the Golden Super Cruise in Golden Colorado. We met up with some other Flat Fender enthusiasts. This was in early May, 2012.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/03/2012-05-06-018-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJmV2)
This was a fun night, but it did expose one flaw that I have never quite resolved. More to come on that later.
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I forgot to mention the tailgate modifications. To support the weight of the spare tire, I bolted vertical oak blocks to the interior. The gas can supports are old garage door opener rails. I welded these on. I also drove a solid steel shaft into the top tube portion of the tailgate. I shaped it with a grinder to fit the tube profile. I initially did this to push out the dents in the top edge of the tailgate. I drove it in with a sledgehammer. It worked perfectly to eliminate the dents but I was having trouble getting the shaft back out, so I cut it to length and left it in place. This is now one badass tailgate.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2017/10/04/Tailgateinsideview.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/V0K5)
We spent most of the summer driving around town. Ice Cream, grocery store, etc. This is when I learned about the "Jeep Wave".
I found this Bridge Plate and bolted it on. I think it added a "Cool" factor. It's the muted version. Most of these are yellow.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2017/10/04/IMG_1277.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/STeJ)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/09-28-13-019.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJEka)
These tie-down brackets are another M38 feature. There are two on the front frame horns and another set about mid frame.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/05/2012-10-13-003.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJP9f)
I bought this original MB rear seat. It needed some modifications to make it work in my 3A.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/2012-06-26-016.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJLcU)
I mounted an ammo can to function as a wallet and cup holder.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2017/10/04/dbef1c810e6efc1e2d8d61efd45e5f8e_zpsdf48003d.jpg)[/url]
These ammo cans and old tin tool box were added to store tools and extra parts.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/05/2012-06-26-025.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJqNo)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/2012-06-26-024.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJ3Xp)
Driving It around town was fun, but I needed a little more adventure. The Fall Color Tour is held here in Colorado. It looked like the fun I was hoping for.
My wife and I decided to attend. We wanted to bring our dog friends, so I ditched the rear seat and made a padded box.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/2012-09-18-002-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJn6k)
I added some shade for them. Some may recognize the fellow captured in this photo.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/2012-09-23-028.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJ8Ot)
Some FCT 2012 photos.
I(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/2012-09-23-040-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJgP6)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/2012-09-23-009.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJh0y)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/2012-09-23-008-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJ0Zl)
A terrific time was had by all. The FCT was dry and warm. No mud, but plenty of dust.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/2012-10-13-010.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJuNM)
I found some M38 door frames and ordered the side curtains and doors to have a full enclosure.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/2012-08-06-004-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJ6Yg)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/10/2012-11-17-013.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jJID2)
2012 was coming to an end. At this point, I had mixed feelings about my 3A. More on that in the next entry.
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The guy in the red shirt looks like trouble.
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The guy in the red shirt looks like trouble.
Yeah, you watch him. I’ve known him for a long time, and he’s gotten me into trouble more than once. BW
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The FCT exposed a weakness. This was the first time I really got to see how my engine performed when compared to other Willys Flat Fender Jeeps. To get to the trails, we were occasionally on paved roads and traveling 40-45MPH.
My Willys 3A was a DOG compared to the others in the group. It was hard to keep up on even the slightest inclines. I was frankly embarrassed to the point where I didn't want to go to this event ever again.
Once home, I started in on figuring out if my engine was warn out or if there were things I could do to maximize the engine power.
The PO included a box of parts when I bought this. Inside was a Carter WO. Time to learn how to rebuild a carburetor. It was a little scary, but if I screwed it up, I could always reinstall the Solex. The Carter ran really nice, but it didn't improve my engine performance.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/2012-10-30-001.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3aIt)
Don't ask me why I polished the float. I have a slight OCD issue.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/2012-11-12-001-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3Vpz)
I added a fuel filter and replaced the goofy PCV valve with the traditional version. Still no power increase.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/2012-11-24-003-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3Yvp)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/2013-02-17-002-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3mBq)
The Chain drive engine had a noisy sloppy chain. I upgraded to the Richard Sanders timing chain system. Nice and quiet, but it didn't improve my power performance.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/2013-01-23-004.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3paJ)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/2013-01-23-007-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3CGV)
I did some reading and learned how to check and adjust the timing. Turns out, the distributor was not the original style. It has an adjustment slot that didn't allow me to advance the timing enough. Add on to tha, the prior owner didn't index the oil pump correctly.
Once the oil pump and timing were corrected, my 3A felt like a little speed racer. I couldn't wait to go to the next Fall Color tour.
In the meantime, my Wife found this cool 'Fire Gun' extinguisher. I cleaned it up and bolted it on.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/2013-01-01-018-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3oTN)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/2013-01-01-011-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3li0)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/2013-04-05-001.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3rsl)
I added a reinforcing plate on the back side of the fender.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/2013-04-05-003.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3QZe)
We joined the local Memorial Day parade where I was lucky enough to ride with a Korean War Veteran and a WWII Veteran.
https://youtu.be/9xig3mMIasI
https://youtu.be/5N7OToBmxyg
The performance at the 2013 Fall Color Tour was like night and day. We had a great time that year.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/17/IMG_1115-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3qQk)
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;) I kept telling Tim that the Ford engine just was not happy in the Willys chassis, and that he should let me have it, but I was unable to convince him before he found the actual problem. :'( BW
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;) I kept telling Tim that the Ford engine just was not happy in the Willys chassis, and that he should let me have it, but I was unable to convince him before he found the actual problem. :'( BW
I remember years back when you got on me for sending a newb with a "For Sale" G.P.W. to the G503. :o Never did that again. Now I just give them your email. :)
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In 2014, my focus switched to another 3A project, but there were some things I did with this one.
It had a pretty good leak from the rear main seal. I had a hard time accepting that a Willys Jeep inherently leaks. I replaced the seal 4 times with both the rubber version and the rope version. All attempts were failures with this engine. I bought a lot of oil pan gaskets that year. None of my attempts were successful. It just seemed to get worse with every try.
The weirdest event from 2014 came in one of the most unlikely ways. Just before the 2014 Fall Colors Tour, I was prepping the 3A for the trip. Quite suddenly, the engine developed a knock. I didn't want to cancel my trip, so I scrambled into action. Day after day for a week, I worked toward figuring out what was happening. I eliminated most simple possibilities, but I couldn't solve the issue. It didn't knock on the lower side of the engine. It was up high, so maybe a chunk of piston broke off or something.
I finally built up the courage to pull the head.
This is what I found. . .
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/20/09-05-14-005.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3PUy)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/20/09-05-14-006-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3saM)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/20/09-05-14-011.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j32B6)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/20/09-05-14-009.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3yGg)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/20/09-05-14-010.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3R52)
A little brass screw. Where the %$&# did this come from?
This little brass screw was from the throttle plate on my Carter WO. When you do a rebuild you are supposed to smash the treads on these screws so they don't back out. I didn't know this. Mine came loose then got sucked in through the intake and landed in combustion chamber number one. Every up cycle of the piston would cause the thing to knock.
I removed it, cleaned up the top, checked the valve for damage, reset the head and all was back to normal.
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Had the same thing happen to a '74 GMC 3/4t pickup with a 292 inline 6cyl..
That screw hammered so hard we thought the engine was shot. Had a time getting the screw out of the piston, it was really stuck. That was many years ago. It was a good ranch truck for many more years after we put the head back on.
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Tom, good to know I didn't start some crazy trend. Ya live, ya learn.
As time moved forward, there would be several mini projects performed between trail rides and parades.
I was always a little disappointed in the wheels on this 3A. I finally found a complete set of original 15" Kelsey Hayes wheels. I blasted, painted then mounted them up. . .
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150309_120406-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j30Cf)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1154-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j33Jo)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1158-2.jpg)[/url
[url=http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3JdF](http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1196-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j385L)
In my never ending pursuit to slow the leaks and improve performance, I installed a sealed bearing on the T-90 transmission and sealed the leak points on the shift tower. . .
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1168-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j36g0)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1170-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3tJJ)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1178-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3bdN)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1176-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3IWq)
While I had it all apart, I replaced the intermediate shaft in the Dana 18 transfer case. You can see the side-by-side new and old parts comparison. . .
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1160-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j34se)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1172-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3gLu)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1171-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3uji)
The stained handles on the tools weren't holding up very well so I ended up painting them green. . .
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150411_192403-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3BFQ)
Another Memorial Day just before the parade. . .
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1222-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j35Fz)
Our first trip to the Black Hills area of South Dakota. . .
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/IMG_1250.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3Kjt)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150624_113524.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j37bp)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150626_130814.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3xC5)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150624_132354.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3E7V)
Following that trip, I pulled the engine and got serious about the rear main seal leak. While out, I also cleaned up the top and replaced the broken piston rings. I pulled the crank shaft this time and tried a whole new technique. I got it to seal pretty good, but it still leaks a bit after really pushing the engine. Such is life with an old engine and a rope style rear main seal...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150712_105748-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3Thl)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150712_110951-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3Nyk)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150725_145656-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j31JM)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150725_172108-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3UW6)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150725_172119-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3eqy)
2015 Fall Colors Tour...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150923_100100-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8ola)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150923_114154.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j3M7g)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150926_133912-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8jFU)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/24/20150923_100931.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8lb8)
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Tim, You not only do good work on your Jeep's you take really good pictures.
Thanks for sharing.
Tom
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During the winter I got a little bored. The projects moved indoors. I rebuilt an original style fuel pump and a few Carter WO carburetors...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/IMG_1393.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8frq)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160110_164929-2.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8ye0)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160131_112911.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8iRi)
As springtime arrived, I was pretty busy on another Willys project, but still found time for this one. Here it is tucked away in my temporary paint booth.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160530_152345-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8Plu)
Another trip up north to the Black Hills Run...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160623_125045.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8qwf)
Some very interesting conversations arise with this group of passionate Flat Fender folk.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160623_125129-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8rtQ)
Time to upgrade the old Leaf springs after finding a couple broken leafs...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160822_155323_001.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8O3N)
2016 Fall Colors Tour. The mountains were on fire this year.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160922_131349.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8V3F)
Our FCT host, M38Mike.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160922_131135.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8dHL)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/IMG_1316-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8she)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160921_133557.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8Sqc)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160922_113509.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8YAo)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160923_133849.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8CeH)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160923_134152-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8phD)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/03/31/20160923_130627.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8kAJ)
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Oh the pain. I miss it real bad. Now we got this new threat. I hope we all come out the other side---------ready to Jeep. Oilly
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I miss the rides too, Oilly. And I miss the Peeps just as much.
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By early 2017, I had wrapped up another project and started fiddling with other stuff. This is the 3A I fixed up for my wife.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/04/28/20160828_105857.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jnmVJ)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/04/28/20171123_121952.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jnVMk)
My 46 CJ2A also started to get some attention. I've had it for a while, but I didn't do much more than getting it started and getting it to stop...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/04/28/IMG_1984.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jnS4t)
Another Fall Colors Tour. You get to see some amazing things at this event...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/04/28/20170920_174708.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jnqNy)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/04/28/20170920_113522-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jndn6)
In 2018, I found a 1-1/4" intermediate shaft Dana 18 and rebuilt it to replace my existing whiny TC. This was a fun project.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/04/28/20180313_055437-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jnXE5)
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/04/28/20180314_181314-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jnCoz)
2019 I added an overdrive.
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/04/28/20190519_152309-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jnaPl)
The ultimate millennial Anti-Theft device...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/04/28/20190529_201951.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j8Z20)
I continue to enjoy trail rides. I brought home quite a bit of mud from this trip...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/04/28/20190619_141810-1.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/jno9V)
I hope you enjoyed this timeline. I had fun putting it together. It brought back lots of memories.
This little 3A changed the course of my life. Because of it, I have met some incredible people that never cease to amaze me. There is true kindness throughout the Willys community. The kind of folk that truly restore my faith in humanity.
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Tim,
Thanks for sharing, great reading up
Kirk
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Thanks Kirk. It's been a fun ride.
From a recent trip...
(http://www.mywillyspics.com/images/2020/07/02/20200623_135201.jpg) (http://www.mywillyspics.com/image/j085M)
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Beautiful Jeep and the scenery is amazing. My wife and I hope to make a color tour sometime, won't be this year because of previous travel commitments but the plan is for 2021. Provided there is still a safe America to travel in... weird times.
Any, I also hope to be on here more often, now that family life has settled... not too much going on with my build, just driving her around, get loads of attention, which I am sure you do as well. Enjoy!