This is my first Willys Jeep. I attended the 2018 Toledo Jeep Fest and wow, what an event! I was hooked. I went out and bought one. It is a 1950 Willys CJ-3A that was used as a farm tractor in Michigan. This saved the frame from the rust generated in the rust belt. It did not save the body. The body was barely there so, I started the project by just getting all of the rust and plastic repair out off the way and ordered a tub kit. Surprisingly, a lot of original stuff is still here. Most of my work looks like it will be repairing the “hacking” that occurred.
I am officially the second owner of this Willys. Someone before me was very fond of their welder. The repairs to the frame will include rebuilding the left front frame horn where cutting took place. The frame spring mounts were removed and, a piece of channel iron was welded in place to attempt a prehistoric lift. Really bad work there. Grinding and getting those off and the new mounts back on will be tough. The body was welded on in the back and, I had to grind out the chopped up rear cross member/bumper that was welded to the body.
In the engine bay I think I have a truck motor. It is the right casting numbers (641087-L-W5A on the Block / 640161 on the Head). The motor however is stamped 4T10443 A. I have read that it still could be the original motor as some engines were used from various locations in the Willys plant when inventory went low. The welding/chopping in the motor house continued. Angle iron welded in, battery box chopped up. Fenders welded on the oil filter is severely hacked up and relocated. The most unbelievable thing… the radiator was welded in! Much more to fix but, I am sure you all know that is coming!
Willys Jeep Life Story – Robert Morgillo
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I like the color, it reminds me of a glossy early Marine Corps green. Can you share the name of the color and supplier of the paint? Thanks.
Very nice build. She looks great.
Some people who do repair work should try repairing children’s toys before they start on a vehicle. They would show less ignorance.
Dave
Nice job, I have a 1950 CJ3 very similar story to the farm vehicle story. I am now working on my 1950 Jeepster hope to get the Jeep going one day through the old cut up tub on it have fun and maybe later finish a restore.
Hi Really nice pics of a great build.
Love the paint color choice! What color did you decide on?
Lynda
1947 cj2a owner
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Great job,,always like to see these old boy brought back to life, have many and like how so many parts fit all the truck, jeepsters, 2A’s and all the others,,,,Did you find the s/n tag on the left front main frame,,right behind the bumper channel,,should match of give you a idea of the engine info,,,but who cares.
Sony
Bravo! What a nice restoration! I’m working on a 42 Gpw and a 52 M38A1 and hope I have half
the success of restoring them as you have with this Beautiful CJ3a! It looks like you’ve left no
stone left unturned! A Job WELL DONE!
You bought into quite a mess. Nice restoration though.