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Welcome to eWillys.com, a website for vintage jeep enthusiasts. I update this website nearly every day with jeep deals, jeep history, interesting reader projects, jeep related info, and more.
These quick searches can help you find things on eBay. People list in the wrong categories all the time, so don't be surprised to see brochures in the parts area for example.
The links to posts below show jeeps grouped by models, condition, and other ways. Some of these jeeps are for sale and others have been sold. If you are unsure whether a vehicle is still for sale or not, email me at d [at] ewillys.com for more info.
There are plenty of interesting, unusual, historic and surprising stories related to Jeeps and their owners. In addition, some of these features have nothing to do with jeeps. This link will display all featured stories starting from the latest.
Looking for parts and not sure where to go? There are a variety of large and small new and used parts sellers both online and offline.
Importantly, the allure of buying a project jeep can be romantic. The reality of restoring a jeep can be quite different, expensive and overwhelming without the right tools and resources. So, tread carefully when purchasing a "project". If you have any concerns about buying a vintage jeep, or run across a scam, feel free to contact me for help, comments or concerns .
eWillys is live on the new server. Now that I’m on the new server, I can finally complete the changes and updates to the site, as well as add some new features. I have also set up a twitter feed which I’ll use to send out updates or announce problems or more.
I will re run a few posts tomorrow. New posts will start Monday. Enjoy your weekend!
Ann’s family is arriving this weekend to celebrate Oolie Christmas. Yes, it is Christmas in February. Why Christmas in February? Because her family (large family) was too busy to gather at Christmas. What’s an oolie Christmas? It’s a family celebration of Christmas started by Ann’s grandmother, who suffered a brain injury in a car wreck. After the wreck, she couldn’t do a lot, but one thing she could do was go to thrift stores. So, she’d go to thrift stores all year around until she had a huge collection of pretty bizarre presents (they’d fill half a bedroom). The presents weren’t addressed to anyone; instead, they were passed out until everybody had one. Then, everyone shouted OOLIE and opened the presents all at once. Then they would hand out another round of presents, yelling ‘oolie’ together again and unwrapping commenced once more. The goal is to have ten rounds.
After Ann’s grandmother passed away the tradition died. However, last year the family decided to restart it. Everyone bought ten thrift store items or made presents from scratch. We all have so much fun, we thought we’d repeat it. This year, as I mentioned, we put it off until February. In fact, we still have the christmas lights on the house, the tree still stands, and decorations still line the banisters. I admit it is strange having christmas decorations up so long you have to dust them. 🙂
Because of all the activity, I’ll be rerunning some old posts and maybe a couple new ones during some down time.
Happy OOLIE Christmas!
UPDATE: This was first published Jan 23, 2011.
About a year and a half ago I posted a story about Ben Carlin and his famous SEEP “Half Safe”. What I didn’t realize at the time was there were a few other nuts crazy enough to modifiy a GPA and travel the world. One of those explorers was a Canadian named Lionel Forge.
I learned about Lionel’s adventure through a website operated by Colin Stevens, who eventually purchased Lionel’s GPA and began the restoration back to its original condition (he then sold the GPA to a USA collector in 2004). Thanks to Colin, we have a record of both Lionel’s transformation of the surplus GPA #4545 into “Amphib” and along with a summary of his story.
On his site, Colin writes, “[Lionel] had the book HALF SAFE which is about a GPA that was modified for world travel and which was travelling around the world. Lionel decided to modify his GPA and travel as well. One key difference is that he did not plan to sail across oceans with his.”
According to this newspaper article, Lionel planned to drive down through Central and South America, ship the car to Africa and then travel through Eastern Europe. One of the places he really wanted to visit was Montevideo, Uruguay, a country about which I posted yesterday.
According to Colin, Lionel made it to Central America, but then discovered the cargo ship he planned to use to make it to Africa was longer in service. So, he shipped ‘Amphib’ to a friend’s house in Florida and continued some additional traveling, though whether he made it to Montevideo is unclear.
Lionel eventually brought Amphib back to Canada, where it sat for at least 11 years on blocks (most likely much more) until Lionel’s death in 2001. Lionel’s family later sold the GPA to Colin, who photographed it extensively, recording all kinds of information about it. Colin then sold it in 2004 to an American collector.
You can read the entire story here at Colin’s website
Colin also wrote a 2 part article in Convoy Magazine in 2002 about the entire adventure, which he pieced together from Lionel’s images, passports and other information. Unfortunately, the magazine is no longer published and I can’t locate any back issues online.
Here are a few images from Colin’s website:
This is GPA#4545 at the salvage yard:
This shows Amphib after the 1949 Dodge Station Wagon top was added:
This is a newspaper article about his upcoming trip:
Amphib with the tent on top:
Lionel in Guatemala (Pyramid #1 at Tikal) in 1967
I also thought it appropriate to include an image of Colin Stevens with his 1944 MB. The photo was taken in 2000. You can see more images here.
This was first published July 2, 2010.
A reader named Sam called me today. He told me he had a great story to share. Hopefully, I’ve remembered most of it correctly.
For a little background, Sam is retired after a lifetime of building hotrods, drag racing and owning a shop in Sacramento, but now operates a small flattie-oriented shop in Arvada, Colorado, where he fixes, modifies and maintains Willys (and probably a few other vehicles) for fun. I’ll be explaining more about Sam (and some of his great suggestions) in a future post, but for now you have enough information to understand why a Jeep owner, in some distress, had his Jeep towed to Sam’s shop to investigate a problem.
And now to Sam’s story … The owner of this willys had tried to drive his jeep to work, but the jeep stopped working while driving down the road. So, the owner pulled to the side of the road, waited a moment, and started it up again. Sure enough, it fired up and the owner drove onwards.
Another few miles down the road the jeep shutoff again. So, the owner repeated the process: pull over, restart, and continue onwards.
At some point, this re-occuring process became too much for the owner to bare, so he called a towing company and had his jeep towed to Sam’s.
So, Sam looks the jeep over. He starts it up and, sure enough, after a little while it shuts down. He knows it has an electric fuel pump and suspects that could be causing a problem, so he unhooks the hose from the carb and points it into a gas can. Then, he turns on the fuel pump. Sure enough, after a little while, the fuel dribbles to a stop, yet he can hear pump still pumping ….. hmmmm, Sam thinks to himself.
He decides to try an experiment. He knows the owner only fills the tank to half full, because if the tank gets too full gas leaches out of somewhere (I can’t remember where Sam said it leaked).
Sam decides to fill up the tank all the way, because he suspects there might be something in the tank. Sure enough, he fills up the tank and out pops not one, not two, but three ping pong balls.
As Sam explains it, the sucking power of the fuel pump was pulling the ping pong balls to the outlet area of the tank(where the fuel line connects), stopping the fuel from exiting the tank, which shut down the jeep.
How’d the ping pong balls get there? Well, that still remains a mystery ….
So, the moral of this story is that even the mightiest jeep can be humbled by an even mightier ping pong ball. And, a side moral, is that buying a locking gas cap is a pretty good idea.
This is an older post first published April 13, 2010:
I was surfing the net looking for a jeep drawing and, instead, came across an interesting 1963 hunting wagon on a blog hosted by Local Motors. I had not heard of Local Motors, but this company describes itself (in the about section) as a ‘New American Car’ company that builds cars in regional Micro-Factories.
The blog contained both a video about 1963 Willys Wagon and a still picture (see the video below). If you like those Texas hunting vehicles, go to this link and check out some of the crazy non-jeep hunters down the right side of the page, such as the suburban hunter.
UPDATE:**Status Unknown** Was $3200
(09/15/2013) I like this old modded flattie. It even has a rare 198 Buick V6. The old top is great, too. Includes an overdrive.
“1950 CJ3A Willys Jeep, Willy’s Flat Fender Jeep
Buick 198 cu in (3.2 L) odd fire V6,
12 Volt System w/ alternator.
Willys Jeep runs, current registration,
Clean title.
Full roll cage, padded,
seat belts,
20 gallon custom gas tank plus stock tank under the seat.
Warren overdrive,
Warn lock out hubs,
Original black license plates,
spare tire rack,
built in CB Radio.
Tow bar.
Extra heavy duty bumpers.
5th wheel trailer dolly on front bumper is removable. Also trail hitches at both ends of the Jeep.
No rust. Detailed record book going back to 1969.”
Ann spotted this funny image. She thought we could relate to it. I don’t know where it originated.
If you are in Hungary, drop by and check this out. Learn more on Facebook.
The Bantam Jeep Festival folks announced their online store is now open.
http://www.bantamjeepfestival.com/store/
I don’t know what it’s worth, but this model of the Russian Gaz is pretty cool. You can learn more about Team America here.
“This is the actual prop Jeep used in the cult classic comedy Team America: World Police (2004) by Trey Parker and Matt Stone (the creators of South Park and Book of Mormon). The vehicle is made mainly of metal, has a wood floorboard, and rubber tires. It measures approx 54″ long x 24″ wide x 18″ high and weighs about 90 lbs. The bloody windshield has a crack on the driver’s side (presumably from filming). This great conversation piece comes with a COA (Certificate of Authenticity) from Premiere Props.”
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/clt/3632760028.html
Mr. Nabholtz passed away in Dec. 2005. This book has been out of print since 1996. One of these went for $88 last summer. I’m reusing the pic below from a previous post.
“The Military Jeep Model MB – GPW by Lawrence Nabholtz.
This is number 555 of 1000 of the original classic by Mr. Nabholtz, first edition.
The book is in new condition and has been sitting in a warehouse since it was originally published in 1996.”
View all the information on eBay
UPDATE: **SOLD** Was on eBay.
The Farm Journals have a variety of interesting Willys/Jeep stories and ads like this, but finding a free or cheap source of them has been difficult.
“This magazine advertisement features the Forwad Control Jeep FC-170 manufactured by Willys Motors, Toledo, OH. The copy boasts that The Newest addition to the 4-wheel-drive ‘Jeep’ family!”. The piece is 8 1/4″ x 11 1/2″ and is in good condition (see photo).”
UPDATE: Both are **SOLD** Were on eBay
1) THE COMPRESSOR:
“You are bidding on an ORIGINAL WESTINGHOUSE T1 COMPRESSOR This compressor was an extremely rare accessory for FORD GPW or WILLYS MB Jeep and some 1 1/2 ton and 2 1/2 ton WW2 trucks.
These were used in the field for inflating and deflating tires to cross rough terrain including snow and sand. The compressor mounts to the vehicle engine and ran from an alternate fan belt A hose is then ran from under the hood to the tires. (see my other auction)
The Compressor appears to be in NOS condition and turns by hand creating compression.There is a little shelf wear here and there but it’s in good shape with no chips in the castings.”
2) THE HOSE:
“You are bidding on an ORIGINAL NOS AIR HOSE FOR A WESTINGHOUSE T1 COMPRESSOR the for FORD GPW or WILLYS MB Jeep and some 1 1/2 ton and 2 1/2 ton WW2 trucks. The hose is in NOS condition and in great shape. It is still soft, flexible, and I can’t find any cracks hairline or otherwise.”
The buy-it-now price is $2500. It appears to run. Looks like a great price.
“All original running gear, new steering box and gear, idler arm, front hubs, roll bar, bikini top, winch”
View all the information on eBay
UPDATE: **SOLD** Was on eBay
“This 1952 Willys Jeep has benefitted from a complete restoration back to its factory specs including Army issue green paint and even the appropriate white lettering. It is powered by a torquey four cylinder engine, 4 speed transmission, full transfer case pushing the power to the robust 4X4 Willys axles.”
UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $2400
This runs and drives.
“CJ2A first civilian jeep original running motor, rims, and does drive, should be restored! Just dont have time..”
UPDATE: **SOLD** Was on eBay.
Only one pic shown so far.
“1953 Willys CJ3A partially restored recent engine that runs very good, I do not know the exact millage on this recent engine so I just put what was on the odometer, but this engine runs like a top and holds good oil pressure. I will have pictures as soon I can get them on there.”
This is a project or parts vehicle.
“Up for auction 1962 willys jeep fc 170 six cly, manual transmission, lock out hubs, 4×4 hi-lo…truck has been not started for three plus years, i had a mechanic to check and the engine does turns freely. It ran excellent when parked. the truck is being sold to restore or parts. the glass is all there the passenger window has a crack. Three of four the cab corners are solid one has a hole in it. The cab has some rust and bondo, the frame is soild, the floors are rusted through as you can see in the picture…. the tires are all up. The bed not sure if homemade or not but it looks real good. The truck seems to be complete and the only item is missing as i know of is the igntion key. the radiator was remove to be repaired and i do have the originnal, it but its not installed. Truck is being sold as is where is with no refund no warranty impleid, . Has clear kentucky title.”
View all the information on eBay
This appears pretty good, but someone has cut the edge of the entry to the driver’s side.
“1956 Willys Jeep > This is a fun jeep to have …It can be an everyday driver at the Lake Cabin, Ranch or Mountain Retreat. I can’t go anywhere, without people taking pictures of this jeep.
I put more into this Jeep than I’m asking. My next thing is to re-do my seats…but its a ruff N tuff Jeep …not you’re pretty restored parade jeep. I drove it on the Ranch everyday….but now I’m not at the Ranch and need to sell it.
Straight strong 4 Cylinder
Brand New Solex Carb. (performs great)
Good Clutch
Good Manual Trasmission (3) Speed
4-wheel Drive
Good Brakes (refurbished)
Good Tires w/ Spare
New Shocks
New Stablizer Bar
New Steering Wheel
New Front End Assembly
New Speedometer / Gas Gauge/ Oil Pressure Gauge
New Battery – Converted over from original 6 volt to 12 Volt with altenator (great starting power…and starts everytime, and even faster in the winter with snow on the ground)
Front Lights / Rear Lights / Brake Lights all work
Asking $4000
Text – Email – Call
Thanks for looking…
214-290-5422”
http://dallas.craigslist.org/ndf/cto/3633665734.html
UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $2000.
“Jeep is mostly original. motor and transmission is original . cranks and drives perfect. body is rough with rust around windshield mount and rear part of floor board. perfect start point for a restoration or off road!”
UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $2000
Dan spotted this former Shriner’s wagon.
“1957 willys station wagon, 2wd, 26000 original miles. It does not currently run. This is from the Shriner’s burn institute, it was used to pull floats in parades. My uncle gave this to me, it has been kept in the garage for many years. I had planned on restoring it, just never had the time or money. I am asking 2000 OBO (serious offers only) ”
This looks good, but apparently needs work of some kind.
“1950 willies jeepster all mechaniclly restored body needs some work but in good shape. the convertable top needs to be replaced but is cheap. car has been garaged. car is insured and register and will demo runs excellent. i will also include the garage which is 10 x20 brand new wood construction but not on a foundation. it can be moved on land scape trailer asking $7000 call Bob 631-924-2204 0r 631 521-5276”
http://longisland.craigslist.org/cto/3634569416.html
There might be value here, but the pics were small.
“This Willys was just recently saved and is ready to be restored. It ran when it was parked last year. Includes engine and complete drive train. Engine turns freely and is not locked up. Oil level is still good. It is missing the starter and air cleaner. Floor board is there but rusting out pretty good. Drive shaft to rear is there but broke and will need repair. Will need some seats, a previous owner just threw some seats in it at some point just to be able to use it. Flip down windshield is solid. 2 piece windshield glass cracked. Body of course rusting but is still solid. Has original rims, will need a few tires. She’s rough right now but has great potential! No title. Vin plate reads CJ-3A 57720. From what I’ve seen this makes it a 1950. Take care! Email or TEXT ONLY to nine3one three34 sevenone9eight.
Possibly will trade, pretty much cars or trucks only. I’m a gearhead. 900.00 OBO”
http://columbia.craigslist.org/cto/3634310234.html
UPDATE: **Status Unknown** Was on eBay
I’m pretty sure the truck bed has been recently painted from black to green, which helps this look better. It’s too bad the color doesn’t match the rest exactly (given the price).
“Jeep is the original American 4×4, and even decades ago, you can see that Willys was serious about going off-road. This ultra-nice 1961 Willys Jeep pickup an awesome do-anything machine, the Swiss Army knife of off-roaders, and a darned good-looking truck to boot!
Go ahead and try to find another one of these, let alone one this nice. Wait, let me make it easy for you—you won’t. Someone spent the long dollar to bring this one up to show standards, then filled it with comfort and convenience items to create a kind of resto-mod Jeep pickup. The angular sheetmetal, complete with that instantly-recognizable Jeep front end, is completely stock. Whatever this truck’s previous life might have been, it’s now in near show condition with panels that fit together better than new, paint that sparkles like the stuff you find on a new Lexus, and still carrying a big dose of practicality. The medium green paint works especially well with the reproduction Sinclair Gasoline decals on the doors (go ask your grandfather about it), and adds a sense of functionality. The surprisingly big bed has been covered in color-matched bedliner material, so it’s still up for the rough stuff, there are tubular bumpers fore and aft, and just enough chrome to remind you that this truck was built for civilians.
Originally, the interior in a Jeep like this was little more than a lightly upholstered bench and some basic controls, but during the restoration it got a full makeover. Today it offers a trick pleated look that’s totally custom but still looks right in the upright cab. Matching door panels were added to soften the interior a bit, and there are now carpets on the floor, not rubber mats. The original dash is painted to match the body, and the factory-issue gauges are still in the center, but they’re now flanked by a set of Auto Meter Phantom gauges, including a clock, and surprisingly, they look exactly right. There’s also an AM/FM/CD stereo hidden in the glove box with speakers neatly hidden, so you won’t even know it’s there until you hear it.
The engine is still a correct 226 inline-six, the powerplant of choice when reliability matters. Rebuilt and neatly detailed in original olive green, it starts quickly with a pleasant grumble, and idles smoother than you’d expect from a workhorse. Underneath, the chassis was completely restored and with only 98 miles on the restoration, it’s as clean as it’ll ever be. The transmission, transfer case, and both axles have been freshened, and all the lines and hoses are new, so you won’t have to worry about heading off the pavement. And simply nothing looks better on one of these old rigs than the original steel wheels with skinny 7.00-16 off-road tires.”
UPDATE: **SOLD**Was $1000
(02/14/2012) This starts and runs.
“1968 Willys CJ6 would make a great restoration project it will start and run have the seats to go in it.. This jeep is a 4 cylinder ”
