1943 WILLYS JEEP WITH TRAILER
Chassis no. 288563
134ci L-head Willys "Go-Devil" inline four-cylinder engine
Single Carter WO-596S one barrel downdraft carburetor
60bhp at 4,000rpm
Three speed manual transmission
Four-wheel telescopic hydraulic suspension with semi-elliptical leaf springs
Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes
* Iconic Utility vehicle
* Comprehensively restored
* With radio and many period correct accessories
* Ready for summer fun
THE JEEP
Although forever associated with Willys-Overland, the original Jeep military vehicle was developed by American Bantam. It was designed to meet the US Army's requirement for a rugged, go-anywhere, four-wheel-drive vehicle capable of surviving on the barest minimum of unskilled maintenance. The Pentagon doubted Bantam's ability to meet the military's post-Pearl Harbor demands so the major contracts went to Willys - the only other firm that had submitted a tender - and the Ford Motor Company, which would be responsible for the Jeep's trademark slotted radiator grille.
Willys made various modifications to take advantage of a revised maximum weight requirement, which meant it was able to use its relatively heavy but adequately powerful 'Go Devil' engine. It was in this revised form that the Jeep would enter volume production. Today the Jeep remains highly sought after by discerning military vehicle enthusiasts.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
The story of the Willys Jeep had always resonated with the current owner, and he had always promised himself that his car collection should include one of these cars. In the late 2000s, he decided to fulfill that 'obligation' and commissioned Willys Acres Inc. of Ontario, Canada to restore one for him, with all the 'bells and whistles'.
Taking a good stock 1943 example, this well known company comprehensively restored the car, to make it as good as new. The finished article is equipped with rear seat frame, shovel and axe, windshield rifle rack, a capstan winch (for decoration), ammunition box, radio set-up, jerry cans, the whole caboodle... Not content with just this, a 1944 Trailer was also sourced and fully restored to match.
Completed in 2010, as can be seen from the photos, this is as fine a Jeep as one could find. However, its use since has been relatively modest and so reluctantly its owner has decided to pass it on to the next enthusiast.
Saleroom notices
- Please note that the trailer is offered on a Bill of Sale.