Original Chassis Color

[JimVillers]

I have Bob Westerman's Model CJ-3A book and it lists the color of almost everything as "black". 

Was the frame "gloss black", "satin black" or "chassis black" (POR-15 color)? 

Is this black shade also used on the axles, steering etc?

He also lists the engine as being black.  My 1950 engine looks like it was originally red.  Was there a change in the engine color?

Likewise, my steering tube has original body color paint, was that original?

[athawk11]

Jim,
I believe the original frame, axles, and engine block were all semi gloss black.  I have no way to prove this.  Here is some information  gathered by many CJ2A owners over a period of years and using a number of "survivor" CJ2As...and old photos.  It may be helpful...

http://www.thecj2apage.com/forums/the-parts-paint-color-list_topic5742.html


I don't want to speak for him, but what I find from Bob Westerman is he will report what he knows he can substantiate.  If his documentation simply says "black", that's what he will report.  He won't assume anything.

I've personally learned the hard way that it's unwise to do so when dealing with the 3A.

I chose to use satin black on my current project.  I think it looks good on a 66 year old Willys.

The "red" engine is sometimes reported to be a factory supplied rebuild.  My understanding is this may not necessarily be true.

Tim   

[JimVillers]

Tim .... The CJ-2A post was exactly what I was looking for.  I really felt that many items were probably semi-gloss but that some details would be gloss.

The CJ-2A thread also talked about "red engine color". I'll stay with black to be the "most correct".

Thanks.

[Bob W]

That CJ-2A list of colors is an excellent reference. I have no proof but I often wonder if "semi-gloss" paint is actually just gloss paint after it's been around for 65-70 years?

The other item I question is the "factory rebuilt" engine color of red. As far as I can determine the "Willys" factory did not rebuild engines. Everyone else that did rebuild engines could paint it any color they desired. I think Jasper used green.

Willys did seal their new engine blocks with a red colored sealer. Then the black paint was applied over the sealer. In time the black paint peels away, leaving what seems like original red paint.

Willys did offer new replacement engines. These were supplied unpainted, in the red sealer.