052: John Sleppy’s 1950 CJ-3A
This old jeep was used as a tractor by my uncle Ben on his 85 acre farm near Gainesville, Florida. He taught me how to drive a stick in the Florida back trails in 4 low…not too easy when you’re 12 years old and have only driven go-karts and 4 wheelers.
A few years later my uncle Ben and I made plans to restore an old car or truck as a fun hobby, but we never got a chance to when he suddenly passed away. In remembrance of him I bought the Jeep from my widowed Aunt for 100 dollars and decided to live out the idea of restoring an old piece of history.
It has the original 134L-head, axles, dana 18 transfer case, new T90 3 speed, new body and paint. I bought the Jeep at the age of 17 and have been restoring it for four years. The body was unrestorable, in fact I fell through the back floor board when I brought it home.
I’m currently in college earning a degree in Emergency Medical Services, which takes up most of my time, but I still continue to tinker with the project and keep it running. I’m an EMT lifeguard for Pinellas County Beach Patrol and drive the Jeep to work as many times as I can.
Sincerely,
John Sleppy
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Good job on the jeep. I am proud of your work and the way you chose to remember Uncle Ben. Well done.
Uncle Ken
Proud to see a young man keep the love of old jeeps alive.I bought my 1st cj2a when I was 15,I’m now 50 and own 6 and love them just as much as I did then.
Go go it. You are very blessed to notice the important little details of this life. I have talked to many people who regret their pathway because they somehow missed the work and mix of family values involving driving the first time, knowing that kinfolk that left them blessed, and enjoying reviving an old vehicle. I don’t know how many people that would give anything to go back and search for the small simple experience like the one you have shared with us. Thanks fp.
Sorry about Misspelled ..
DR JOHN SLEPPY MD
John:
Fantastic job on the Jeep just remember your Uncle in everything you do to it.
Keep it Ol School as much as possible. And yes he is up there looking down thinking John is doing it right.
Your EMS Tarining keep at it I see maybe a Young Dr in your future.
“DR JOHN SLEEPY MD” Sorta looks good already.