My Willys 3A and 3B Community
TECH FAQ SECTIONS => Chassis, brakes and suspension. => Topic started by: Bayou53 on February 12, 2024, 04:28:24 PM
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Hey all,
So just a quick question for those more knowledgeable than I. My 1953 3B needs repair or replacement of the front crossmember. Rust has had it way on the passenger side where the crossmember sits under the battery tray. I've seen those online websites selling crossmembers for the MB's and early CJ2's, but nothing for the 3B's. My question is this:
With minor modifications, could this replacement crossmember work for my 3B, or is it possible that the tube would be the same diameter so a graft of the old and new crossmembers be a good solution?
Unless someone has a spare 3B front crossmember sitting around, I'm not sure what the best option would be. Any input is welcomed. Thanks.
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If it helps and I read this correctly, the front cross-member on the CJ2A, CJ3A, and CJ3B are interchangeable.
https://cj3b.info/Dating/DatingFrames.html
https://cj3b.info/Tech.html
Like you found, at least one vendor seems to agree: https://www.dlbensinger.com/shop/front-frame-cross-member-mb/
Good luck!
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One difference, on the MB/early CJ2A, the steering bellcrank is mounted to the front axle. All others, the bellcrank is mounted to the front crossmember. If all you need is the right end of the crossmember, you should be able to graft the end onto your original crossmember with no problem. (measure 10 times, cut once!)
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I found this one (appears to be the same) at KW and it appears to match the mil vendor but don't be sipping your beverage when looking at the price:
https://www.kaiserwillys.com/products/replacement-front-crossmember-fits-41-46-mb-cj-2a/
What I found interesting is the Q/A where they state it may not fit the frame rails. It also pointed out Chuck's comment about needing bellcrank alteration.
I think I'd want to verify the diameter. Or, another option would be to contact used parts vendor like Harry Sheets:
http://www.midwestwillys.com/
He collects parts and may already have one ready to ship. Or he may be able to supply a partial or full frame. You state your crossmember has rust. It may also be eaten into the boxed area of the frame. I'd check that carefully.
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Thank you all for your input. Ron, I had looked at the information you provided prior to posting my question, but figured I would ask anyway. Chuck, The bellcrank location would be my biggest worry if I completely replace the crossmember. I would have to remove everything the new one comes with, and weld a new bellcrank mounting brack to it. Grafting may be the way to go, but you're correct with your measuring comment. Rus, you aren't kidding about the pricing on a new part from KW! At that price the thing should weld itself in place while handing me a frosty beverage! As far as rusting other component in that area is concerned, the crossmember and the battery support took the brunt of the damage. A wooden structue was attached by a PO to serve as a battery support, and I beleive that acid wicked into the wood, causing the damage to the crossmember. But thank you for your advice. I will look VERY closely to the entire area. The last thing I would want is to have a frame rail buckle on me.
~Charlie
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I will second the idea Russ had about calling Harry Sheets. If he does have a good, original crossmember, you will be ahead of the game.
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Yeah, I checked with Harry and Jo. They do not have the part. I'll have to figure this out. Thanks again.
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If you look around, you may be able to find a complete frame for not much more that what that repop crossmember costs. Check the Buy, Sell, Trade on here, facebook marketplace, craigslist, ebay, etc.
Here's one for $200:
https://cj3apage.com/Forum/index.php?topic=5417.0 (https://cj3apage.com/Forum/index.php?topic=5417.0)