New 1964 CJ3B project

[reises58]

I just purchased this 1964 CJ3B. I would like to put it back to as original as possible. Wondering about dash, no script tailgate, Lack of tool box?
Engine color. Missing defroster. Missing air cleaner. Seats.

[Rus Curtis]

reises58,
First off, welcome!  Looks like you've got a good project to work on!

I see a lot from the images you've posted.   Many of your questions about what is right (or wrong) can be seen on the CJ3B Page (link is the 3B image on top of this page).  I'd start with the Tech section and look at, "Dating By Interior Details."  Also read what's posted in the Paint section (will give you colors on nearly everything attached to your jeep) and then scroll down to find the "Tailgate Construction, " article under BODY.  Then head over to "Owners Photos" and really scan through the 1964 section studying the images that show detail.  I've spent hours looking at all the information posted and still haven't read everything (yeah, it keeps growing too!).

Based on what you've posted so far, I'd say the Previous Owner (PO), had a little fun with some of the items you pointed out.  An aftermarket toolbox can be bought.  An original used (take-off) tool box can be bought - complete with some degree of wear/tear (this will hold true on most components, incl seats and breather, depending on your pocket book and patience).  The instrument panel will need a lot of work and I see (at least one) cut-out in your fire wall too. 

Initially, I'd ask is it drivable?  I can't see a radiator but what did the seller reveal to you?  Are you wanting to drive right away or disassemble to rebuild?

[reises58]

The motor runs. it was supposed to have been rebuilt but think it has to be gone thought. There is an aftermarket radiator, but it does come with the original.
I bought the Jeep as a project for my grandsons. The plan is to get it drivable and the start to restore it to original.
The hole it the dash behind the steering wheel is for a hose that comes from heater to defroster that is missing.

Thank for your help,

[Rus Curtis]

Okay!  Then, hooking up the parts for a crank, sounds like a good plan.  If the aftermarket radiator fits (with the shroud), you could then run it and have the original checked to see if it's usable or repairable.

The defroster attachment is available (one place is Herm: http://www.hermtheoverdriveguy.com/).  I believe others have sourced (or repurposed) hoses but the tricky part is the elbow that fits into the defroster.  Some have retrofitted PVC or other plumbing, there was an attempt to mold a replacement, and some just ignore it and run the hose directly into the defroster.  So far, I don't know of a vendor offering it.  Not much here yet, but searching the old Tapatalk 3B forum for "defroster elbow" gives some information:

https://www.tapatalk.com/groups/cj3b_bulletin_board/search.php


Chuck did a nice article on his "fresh air heater" rebuild here:  http://www.cj3b.info/Tech/FreshAirHeater.html

[oldtime]

Yes has a modified dash panel.
Willys Motors changed their name to Kaiser Jeep Corporation in 1963.
All Willys scripting went away as soon as the old stock was used up.
Yes it definitely should have a tool box unless it was special ordered from factory.
Engine color should be black.
Heater and defroster were an option yet the defroster hole will still be in the dash.

[Spacecrab]

Nice Jeep!

Seems to have the military clutch inspection cover, I think all the civilian ones had slots

I like American Bosch wiper motors, the plastic cover modern ones don't seem to last me much

Good luck getting it how you want it 

[derekredmond]

Great project.  It would be good to know what the starting point was.  Did you find a '64 serial number on the firewall or on the top right frame rail?  The combination of the fresh air heater and the early-type parking brake would suggest the dash is between '59 and '61. If you find a SN, please send it to me for the survivors list at https://cj3b.info/SerialNos/SerialNosEngine.html -- thanks!

[reises58]

There is no data plate on the firewall. I however I did fine a number on the frame. It is 53502. I believe that would make it a 1959. My plane is to title it as a 1959 and try to restore it as such. will in the future have to decide on paint and trim colors.

[Chuck W.]

Just to follow up on the defroster elbow, I was able to make a working elbow from from PVC pipe and an O-ring. It fits and works fine in the Herm reproduction windshield defroster manifold, but I just haven't been able to make myself drill the two mounting holes in the windshield frame!

[Rus Curtis]

Chuck,
I like that mod!  a detailed assembly with all the parts and tooling needed would be, IMHO, a great thing to have for others.  Also, I feel your pain on drilling.  I've thought of alternatives also when mounting is needed - so as not to add holes not already there.  What about several strips (or a whole bracket) bent and drilled to mount between the w/s seal and w/s frame (using the screws that attach the seal) to mount to and support the manifold?  Might need a smear of RTV to ensure no leakage past the seal and w/s.

[Chuck W.]

I'll have to find it......I put it somewhere safe and now I can't remember where!