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The Jeep Guy Resotrations from Scranton Pa

• CATEGORIES: Features • TAGS: This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

For a while I’ve run across Craigslist Ads for “The Jeep Guy Restorations” out of Scranton, Pa.  Well, before I had a chance to contact him to learn more, the owner Bob Foster contacted me.  He shares his history and provided some pictures.  You can learn more about his restoration ship on Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Jeep-Guy-Restorations/273113772733381?sk=info  Thanks for sharing your story.  If you want to contact Bob, call him at 570 347-8998.

Bob wrote, “I inherited the business from my dad. He started the business in 1957. At first, we only did general repair work, but in 1963, my dad added bodywork and painting to our services. I helped him at a young age. Soon, I learned the fabrication of metal panels from my grandfather, who was a blacksmith that worked on the Erie locomotive shops here in Scranton, the anthracite capitol of the world. As a blacksmith, my grandfather even made his own tools. He passed down to me his knowledge of metalworking.

I started to help with the bodywork in earnest around 1969, eventually taking over the painting and bodywork. Most of the work was rust repair and full paints. Also, over time, I started to modify vehicles by cutting and shortening truck frames, adding dump bodies, making wreckers, and adding winches. I bought my first 4-wheel drive Ford in 1974 for $4,800 brand new. I still have it—I turned it into a wrecker. At my dad’s garage, we worked on Jeeps over the years, but not in large volumes. Not too many people in Scranton owned them in the 60s or 70s. To add to that, my dad did not like Jeeps: he had the impression that they did not hold up well.

In 1979, we bought a gas station, and my brother Ronnie joined us in running it. However, I had to oversee it and run the other shop, too. We later sold the station and bought 1 acre of commercial land, where I built a 40x30x16 garage for truck repairs. I still run out of the garage today. I added state inspections to the garage’s services in 1990. For most of the 90s and 2000s; truck repairs, vehicle inspections, bodywork, restorations, and modifications took up the bulk of my time.

However, in 2006, my wife and I were looking at projects that the boys at our church would enjoy, so I got the idea to find an old Jeep and work with them on it, getting it to run. So I advertised on Craiglist for an MB or CJ2A, and a young guy named Michael called in response. He lived about 20 miles away from Scranton, so we took our trailer and the boys along and bought one of his 40s civilian Jeeps. Michael is a WW2 reenacter, so he had his other Jeep painted OD green. It gave me the idea to do the same with ours.

Over time, WW2 and Korean War veterans that were my customers would come to the shop and tell stories about the Jeeps they drove in the War. As they grew older, I started to lose them as customers. However, because of their stories, I found a passion in restoring the Jeeps to remember the GIs that drove them. So after that, I bought two more Jeeps—they are like potato chips. This is the story of how I discovered my passion for army MBs and civilian Jeeps. They are a tribute to the men who drove them and worked on them.

As we were working on the Jeeps, getting them in running condition, people learned about my project. A worker at a local auto supply shop, an army veteran, told customers that had Jeep problems, “Go to that Jeep Guy over there. He’ll be able to help.” And the name stuck. For 40 years, I’ve worked on all types of vehicles, but now I’m looking to focus on Jeeps, both the old and the new.”

Here’s a project:

Here is another finished project:

Continue reading

 
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Wooden Jeep in Chateau in Europe (France I think)

• CATEGORIES: Features, Museums, Unusual, Wood bodies This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

I spotted this on Flickr.  I thought it was the same wooden jeep that was spotted in France here, but I think this is a different one (the jeep below only had 8 slots, while the one in the link above has 9 slots).

http://www.flickr.com/photos/7430965@N05/4961130135/#DiscussPhoto

According to the photographer Spottedlaurel, “There was a ruined Chateau just outside the village near where we stayed, and in one of the beautifully refurbished buildings there was a museum full of life-size things made from wood. F1 car, tractor, motorbikes, all sorts of things. The bonnet lifted up on this to show a wooden engine inside.”

 
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1947 CJ-2A Wichita, KS **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: CJ-2A • TAGS: This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $6000

This looks good.

“Great trail jeep. Buick V-6, 3 speed with OD and Hi & Low gears. Dana axles, rear locker. Full and half soft tops. New winch. New wheels and tires. Power brakes. Power steering. Tilt steering wheel.”

 
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1947 Parts CJ-2A Central City, Ne **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: CJ-2A This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $500

I’m not sure there is much value here.

“i have a 47 willys jeep project or parts rig for sale, missing hood, no title, has trans and transfer, floor had been fixed at one time… comes with f head engine.”

 

 
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1948 CJ-2A Las Vegas, Nv **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: CJ-2A • TAGS: This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** was $2000.

This looks good for the price.

“I have a 1948 Cj2A willys jeep for sale
, 4 cylinders, 4×4, power steering, new alternator, new tail-lights, and it runs (4 extra ORIGINAL rims, and an extra ORIGINAL seat on the side, the extra rims and seat comes with it too) NO ROLL-BARS (sorry) SERIOUS BUYERS ONLY, NEEDED OUT BY THE END OF THE WEEK!!!”

 
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Year CJ-2A Kansas City, Ks **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: CJ-2A • TAGS: , This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $2100.

This includes an overdrive.  I’m surprised this didn’t sell for $2500.

“I listed this Jeep a number of weeks ago for $2500, a very reasonable price, I thought. Several people looked at it but it didn’t sell. I have too many cars and even too many Jeeps. I need to find a new home for this post WWII Jeep. It has original four cylinder motor that was rebuilt at some point, new tires, an after market overdrive. ( previous owner used it as daily driver). the engine driven winch has a piece of metal broken off of it so doesn’t work. There had been quite a lot of rust on it. This was repaired with 18 gauge steel welded in. It has new paint. This Jeep will make a fun and inexpensive (compared to a all terrain vehicle) toy or a good working vehicle. I think the carb may need to be replaced or rebuilt because I have to keep choke out or it stalls”

 
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1948 CJ-2A Albuquerque, Nm $2000

• CATEGORIES: CJ-2A This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

This looks pretty good for the price based on this picture.

“This willys is 90% complete does run everything works it is very much restorable.Might consider trades,motorcycles,atv,quads,old trucks???????$3.000 if interested email or call 505- 286-2107 thank you”

http://albuquerque.craigslist.org/cto/2826805582.html

 
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1950 Wagon Bulverede, Tx **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: Willys Wagons This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $1200.

The passenger side front tire looks nice.

“PLEASE ONLY SERIOUS BUYERS !!!!!!!!  1950 STATION WAGON WILLYS JEEP , SOLID BODY, HAS MOTOR, (NOT RUNNING) $1200.”

 
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Willys Collection Oklahoma City, Ok $2500

• CATEGORIES: CJ-2A, CJ-3A This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

No pics provided.

“1950 cj3a needs engine and trans installed have both ! 1953 cj3a project , 2 1947 cj2 tubs in rough shape ,, i have frames transmissions transfercases axles a couple of engines i have acomplete TRW engine rebuild parts rods,pistons,valves oil pump fuel pump stil in the box. I have ametal hard top with doors ,also apickup cab top that will fit the cjs,fenders hoods a rollcage radiators,grills and alot of misc. parts. Would like to sell as package contact me if interested call or txt 405 509 4847 thanks!”

http://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/cto/2826974844.html

 
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1967 Nissan Patrol Riverside, Ca **Status Unknown**

• CATEGORIES: Other 4x4s This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: Was listed at $450. Status Unknown.

I don’t see these very often.

“Here is a solid rust free california nissan patrol 4×4 for parts or restore. Missing the engine, yes it has the transmission and transfer case etc etc $450 have clean lien sale papers 951 965 8428……………….toyota tacoma jeep Jeep willys Willys Land Cruiser patrol 4×4 diesel Nissan Nismo TRD ford chevy”

 
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Welder with Willys Engine Allen, NE **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: Industrial-Welder-Generator This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $100.

This will probably need work.

“willys 4 cylinder flathead welder. Ran and worked when last used and could again. Needs radiator repaired and exhaust. Asking $100/obo.”

 
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CJ-5 and Flattie Kansas City, Mo **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: CJ-3A, CJ5 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $1250.

There appears to be value in both of these.

“Body RUSTY and rusted out, Sitting for a few years-Suppose to run but I’ve never messed with it,
6-cyl motor, Hardtop, After market aluminum wheels, More WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET-!!!—COME LOAD IT ON YOUR TRAILER-!!!–Good title-!!!Also have a late 40’s- early 50’s willys jeep 4-sale All there except motor–$1250.00

 
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Year CJ-2A Coos Bay, Or $700

• CATEGORIES: CJ-2A This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Maybe there are some useful parts.

“Rusty parts jeep 1947 mosty complete engine is seized NO TITLE 700 obo call or text 541-290-3853”

http://oregoncoast.craigslist.org/pts/2826856586.html

 
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1953 Wagon “Parkway Conversion” Erie, Pa $2800

• CATEGORIES: Willys Wagons • TAGS: , This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Bob spotted this one.  Get it while it lasts.

“v6 2 wheel drive four wheel drive axle still in it, runs and drives call for more info 814-882-8631”

http://erie.craigslist.org/cto/2791237510.html

 
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2 1948 CJ-2A Central Washington $1500/each

• CATEGORIES: CJ-2A This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE:  Still Available

(12/09/2011) “Here are 2 1948 Jeep Willy’s. Your choice $1500 each, as is. We do have the motors and transmission for an extra $500 each. One trans has over drive and the other has a PTO. We have clear titles for both. If you are looking for a great project this is it! You get to customize the jeep the way you want! Call Adam for more information. (509) 833-5800”

http://www.carsforsale.com/used_cars_for_sale/1948_Jeep_Willys_144784552

 
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The Malt Jeeps: #1, 2, 3 & 4

• CATEGORIES: Features • TAGS: This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

A couple of us commented on that Hotchkiss jeep that is for sale (view here).  I mentioned that Hotchkiss didn’t start building jeeps in 1942, so I doubted the year.  Alex noted that a variety of early jeep parts were recycled through the E.R.G.M. works at La Maltournee.  Since it had been a while since I had checked out the Hotchkiss related m201.com website, I went there to learn more about the Maltournee  jeeps, which are sometimes called “Malt” Jeeps.

Well, it turns out that the name “Malt” actually refers to four specific jeeps:  Malt 1, 2, 3 & 4.  According to m201’s website:

Jeeps re-manufactured from WW2 parts at La Maltournée are often referred to as ‘Malt jeeps’. However, the term more correctly applies to four specially prepared jeeps, Malt 1, 2, 3 & 4. These were used at shows where they would be driven into the arena by a team of four men who proceeded to dismantle the jeep. The parts were then passed through a small opening before being reassembled on the other side and finally driven back out of the arena – all in less than ten minutes! Various special modifications made this possible, e.g. the bodywork being divided into two parts.”

I searched and searched, but could only find one picture of a “Malt” Jeep, which is at the m201 site.  Note there appears to be a seam in the body at the rear wheel well so it can be disassembled (SEE PIC UPPER LEFT).  The bigger question is, what happened to those special jeeps?

I suppose it is similar to competitions like this back in 2009: http://www.ewillys.com/?p=39373

Or the more widely seen parade jeep that is quickly disassembled and re-assembled.

Or like this competition captured in Olyslager Organization’s book “The Jeep“.

 
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Sam’s Jeep Trailer

• CATEGORIES: trailer • TAGS: This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Flatfender Willys owner Sam Thomas scaled back his projects for a while, but  plans on creating a little busier shop.  After doing some research, he believes he is the only flatfender-specific rebuilder and restorer left along the eastern slope of colorado now that Mile-Hi Jeep has closed.  So, he is looking to hire a couple mechanics who are experts with older jeeps. If you are interested, call Sam at 720-841-0614.

If you have been reading eWillys for a while, you might have remembered Sam was working on a simple conversion process for adding a rack and pinion steering system to an older jeep.  I will detail that tomorrow.

In the meantime, I wanted to share Sam’s recent project, a trailer designed specifically for carrying a jeep.  Here are the specifics.

“TILT TRAILER SPECS

1. Two 5500 lb. Axels with brakes
2. Constructed of 190 seamless square tubing throughout.
3. All wiring runs inside tubing
4. All electrical is armored core electrical cable.
5. Tall lights enclosed in 3/8 channel
6. 20,000 lb. hydraulic Ram
7. Deck is redwood stained and sealed.
8. Square jeep fenders
9. Spring assist rear ramps
10. Bed is 14 X 8 Feet.
11. Front Aluminum utility box
12. Bulldog front hitch
13. Brake Away Brake system
14. All LED lights.
15. LoJack equipped
16. Powder coated
17. Wheel Bolt Pattern 5 on 5 1/2…Jeep
18. Side Pockets all the way around.”

If you want Sam to build you one, call him to learn more.  What isn’t shown in the pictures is the canvas top and the kayak side racks (added specific for the owner of this trailer).

 
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Jeep on Fire

• CATEGORIES: CJ-3B, Features, Fire/Police/Industry Vehicles This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Steve spotted this former police jeep in India on fire.  Nothing safer for kids to do than beat on a burning vehicle.  I’m sure the toxic fumes aren’t too bad . . .

http://www.latimes.com/search/la-0804-pin01,0,67270.photo

 
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Early Wagon Heber, Az Make Offer

• CATEGORIES: Willys Wagons This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

This shell might clean up ok … maybe for a fun project.  It just looks pretty lonely out there.

“Some parts are good—-no motor or transmission. Call James at 928-240-4020.”

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/pts/2826700166.html

 
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4 Turbine Rims Auburn, Wa **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: Tires and Rims This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE **SOLD** Was $300

“Nice set of 4 – 10″ aluminum wheels! with lug nuts
10″ fits wide 5 lug Ford truck or Jeep Willys and others wheels old school western spoke rims with old 31 10.5 15 usable mud tires one tire leaks
300 cash takes”

 
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1943 GPW Long Island, NY $20,000

• CATEGORIES: GPW (Ford MB) This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

No pics provided.

“1943 GPW all matching #’s, original body, fenders, & hood. It has original tires & combat rims. It is a radio jeep with radio all mounted. The only thing it is missing right now is a windshield & canvas top.
asking $20,000.00 for it which is a great deal.”

http://longisland.craigslist.org/cto/2825393610.html

 
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1949 CJ-3A Tampa, Fl **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: CJ-3A This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $1500

It runs and drives, but needs more work.

“Nice willys project needs some tlc to make perfect motor runs excellent drives great,brakes work good
clear title, nice body, I have a bunch of parts for these models
the steering column is completly rebuilt
rebuilt flat head motor, these are getting hard to find in good shape”

 
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1953 M-38A1 Citrus Park, Fl **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 • TAGS: This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $1500.

This looks like a good price.

“nice willys, great body, motor,and drivetrain spring over lift roll bar
rebuilt motor overhead valve 4 cyl great project 4×4 clear title”

 
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1954 M-170 Charleston, WV **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: M-170 • TAGS: This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $9500.

This is a nicely rebuilt M-170.

“For sale is a completly restored 1954 Willys m-170. With only 1,400 miles on resotration. Rebuilt engine and transmission. Brakes have been completly rebuilt including new drums, shoes, wheel cylinders and backing plates. Body includes new floor pans and body has been completly redone. New CJ6 top. New wheels and new 31X10.50R15 Dunlop Radial Mud Rovers. Drives good and rides very well. Asking price is 9,500.00. Must really see to appreciate.”

 
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1944 MB/GPW? Pacific Grove, Ca $2000

• CATEGORIES: GPW (Ford MB), MB This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

No pics provided.

“1944 Willys Flat Fender, V6 , 4 Speed Overdrive , 12 inc Possy Rear End , Power Stearing , 6 Point Roll Cage . This is Not Driveable at this time! 831)601-8316”

http://monterey.craigslist.org/cto/2826198648.html