I bought a Willys CJ3a

[abebehrmann]

Hey guys, been a while since I’ve been on here, site was moving too slow to use but now seems to be a bit better using Tapatalk.

Just wanted to share my new toy. I bought this 1949 Willys CJ3a a couple days ago. It runs, drives, and stops. Body is a bit rough, but not too bad for a 71 year old Jeep.

The plan right now is to get some new tires along with some new bushings and other odds and ends to get her driving a bit safer and then just enjoy her as she is. Eventually will do a bit of bodywork to take care of the worst parts, but nothing too intensive. I kinda like the “used” look on it and it might look funny with too many straight parts on the body.

[abebehrmann]

More pics



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[abebehrmann]

Still has the original Go-devil engine, T90 trans, and Dana 18 transfer case.


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[abebehrmann]

First “mod” was to remove the mesh grill guard so I can admire that nice looking grill



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[4.3LXJ]

Very cool Abe. I have owned two 1942 MBs. Loved them both. You have the advantage of having a D44 rear end and a windshield you can put with an aftermarket top

[Pookapotamus]

Sweet Abe!


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[abebehrmann]

Few updates: put some new old-style skinny bias ply mud tires on it. These are Power King Extra Traction 7.00-15. They were super cheap (85/tire plus shipping and install. I love the look of them on it.

[4.3LXJ]

Fun stuff. FYI. That tread pattern came originally from Armstrong Tire and Rubber CO. I think they were sold off piecemeal to among others Micky Thompson

[abebehrmann]

Replaced some tie rod ends that were well past their prime. Also drained and refilled the trans and tc. TC leaks like a sieve, definitely will be pulling that and replacing all the gaskets and seals next.

[abebehrmann]

Fun stuff. FYI. That tread pattern came originally from Armstrong Tire and Rubber CO. I think they were sold off piecemeal to among others Micky Thompson

I didn’t know that, good info Steve.

You have experience with the Dana 18 TC, right? Have any recommendations on a seal pulling tool for the output seals?


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[abebehrmann]

And today, I flat-towed it over to the Fort Worth impound yard with the XJ to have a police officer inspect it for the bonded title. The little guy did pretty good behind the XJ.

[4.3LXJ]

I didn’t know that, good info Steve.

You have experience with the Dana 18 TC, right? Have any recommendations on a seal pulling tool for the output seals?


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I use a Craftsman seal pulling tool. It is a T bar with hooked ends. Hook one end under and pull sideways. Also make sure needle bearings are tight on the bell crank. Otherwide up and down motion can produce death wobble. Yup, you could get it starting in 1942

[CJ-3XJ]

Nice buy, pretty good shape for an old timer. Being an old timer myself, my very first vehicle was a '46 CJ3 that I bought in '56. Had a lot of memorable times in it until I wore out the motor. Mine had a PTO unit and a tail gate. Wish I had it back today...

[downsy]

Ohhh man I've got CJ fever something fierce. I'm off loading a motorcycle or two to purchase a CJ or YJ project.