I acquired a “family heirloom” CJ-3A last month and have jumped head first into a rehab project. This Willys was purchased brand new by my great grandfather and used on his farm/summer cottages in Maine. He sold the farm in the late 70’s and the Willys stayed with it. The new owners used it around the property primarily to drag a gang-reel mower around the fields right up until October 2011 when it was replaced by a shiny new Kubota.
I bought it from them, dragged it home, and immediately stripped it right down to the frame. I have never tackled anything like this before. Each time I work on any component the first step is pouring through the forum archives to figure out what the hell I’m supposed to be doing. With the exception of the body, I am doing all the work myself. I am on a limited budget so I’ve had to pass over some things that I would liked to have done otherwise. My skill level is basic at best so mistakes have undoubtedly been made along the way…but I’m OK with that… at least for now.
This is not a “restoration” but more like a “refurbishment”. The goal is to get it roadworthy again by spring and tinker with the details as time and money permit.
Kaiser Willys Jeep Blog Story – Ryan Murdock
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I am agree with you Jim…A Old Willy Is always Better Than A New Kubota.
Jim put it best. Can’t top the Willys!! That is one awesome story of the jeep returning to its family. Best of luck with your restoration. I too am restoring a 3a from my wife’s grandfather. Getting powdercoating done next month!!
Enjoy that 3a when your done and please keep us informed with your process!!
-Brian
Right on. Good to see another Willys getting new life. I have done many restorations over the last 30 years and I would like to give you encouragement and two basic bits of wisdom. (1) restore components as you REMOVE them and store them away, this will avoid a big pile of broken/worn out stuff in your way. And (2). do something every day to the rig, even if it is to go out in the shop for 10 minutes and brain storm. These two basic tricks will keep you motivated and on track. The truth is that half of the best jeeps I have restored have been unfinished projects I bought from folks who have lost interest and moved on to something else. Have fun with your project.
Hallo Ryan Murdock,
I done the same thing with my Willys, but no history to the tuck. I had no idea about working on cars. But I am very handy. All the work myself, body repair, welding painting and so, renewed all the electrics , but not the engine and trans. I waited til I had the money to get engine and trans (250 ford, C4 trans, adapter-plate and original transfer-case) first quality reconditioned by a friend. Cost thousands. And for 20 years and lots of driving not flogging I never had any problems. Til now it needs new paint. Ryan, don’t waste money on repairing running gear. Reconditioning ore new is my thing. In the long run it is better, cheaper and more fun.
Good luck and lots of funn in working on your Car.
Regars
Peter
Queensland
Ray– This Octomber I purchased 1962 CJ-5. The body is pretty good, considering. Inatalled new brakes & cylinders,Etc, had to recore the radiator, rebuilt the carb,—etc.etc.etc. I’m wondering where it will end. Seems like i’m funding our local auto parts store retirement fund. My wife calls it our CLOWN CAR, but I names it the money pit. Still, it’s great fun for my son & I to work on. Don.
Good job on the refurb so far. I think they are better when refurb’d rough. There is a little more soul to it that way not to mention they are jeeps.. It’s good that you have the history to go with it that solidifies the heirloom status.. I have a 74 cj5 that I learned to drive in and have many fond memories when my dad owned it years ago.. I also have a 64 Tux Park that I am in the process of TLCing.. Good luck!!! it’s worth it!!
Vann in Alabama
Thanks for the tips Jim. Every component of the brake system has been replaced with new parts. The motor ran well when I drove it into the garage and was rebuilt not that long ago so I didn’t see any reason to tear it apart. I rebuilt the transmission and have rehabbed/replaced a lot of other parts. So far so good.
Hey Ryan sure a good thing since you know the history of the Wiilys and can prove who owned it.
You need to take your time doing the Refurb as you called it. Remember good brakes a #1. Engine is #2.
Since this is your first Refurb learn as you go. And you are so right in using the Forum here. These guys have BEEN there and DONE that and will not steer you wrong.
You might want to ask your family if any of them have the Old Paperwork! Make a Album and hang on to it.
Also pictures are always good.
Oh one more thing …. “A Old Willys Is Better Than A New Kubota Anyday”
Keep us all posted as to how things go.
Jim In WV