This Willys is a 1953 CJ-3B that required a frame up rebuild. I knew when I bought it three years ago that it was going to be a long project. The body was too far gone to bother with so I bought a new body kit from Kaiser Willys. The frame was not much better so I spent two weeks straightening, untwisting, and welding it. I kept the Buick 225 V6 with the TH350 auto trans but rebuilt it all with a hotter cam and new valve train. Engine now has hardened exhaust valve seats and Chevy dual valve springs. As a note to the uninformed, the valve guides have to be cut down in order to run a high lift cam in these engines. I installed a HEI distributor which made a very noticeable difference.
I rebuilt the transfer case with new gears and a kit from KW. I had to fabricate many sheet metal parts to make everything fit. I fabricated all the pedals, mounts, etc. I even made my own emergency brake system to make it street legal. I finally got done painting it so I’m done with it for now. Next year I might install an overdrive unit. I’m welding up an aluminum tool box for it now. As all car guys know, these projects never really gets done. Thanks to Kaiser Willys for the parts and I’m sure I’ll be needing more parts later.
Willys Jeep Life Story – Robert Kudamatsu
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Nice jeep! I am jealous of your bikini top. Where did you find that? Looks great!
Jason
Mike, the tires are 33×9.5×15. They were on the Willys when I bought it. They don’t stick out too much since they are only 9.5. It looks like 2″ lift springs. They were on there too and it says “Made in Columbia”. I kept the 5.38 gears so the engine turns 3700 RPM at 60 mph, about as fast as I want to go. That’s why I might put in a OD unit next year. The acceleration is great with this set-up so I’m hoping it will run well in the sand dunes with sand tires.
Like the look a lot. What size tires are those and how high is lift kit?
It’s a real beauty. Great paint job. Looks like nothing was skipped. Even has a lift. Now you can have fun with it. Mike M.
I have a 53 cj3b all original and in real good shape. Just love that old Jeep!
Nice restoration job. I never was a fan of automatic transmissions because of the size vs vehicle length and lack of compression braking for real steep off road use. Just remember one thing, you are still driving a jeep not a street rod. Many people have forgotten that and wound up in an accident. they are made for off road, and as such extra ground clearance. Wider tires only stabalize so much. enjoy the fruits of our labors. Dave
I just competed a frame up on my 53 willy. I purchase this jeep in 1970 and had it ever since. I have re done it twice and this is the last time. Runs like a sewing machine.
Thanks for sharing yours. I am trying to send pics now.
Ron