As some of you likely know, I am helping to clear out a large collection of salvage and project vehicles from a private owner. You can read more about the collection here. As we move ahead with the process, I’ll be listing some of the more interesting cars individually, which will also help readers see more info about specific vehicles they may be interested in. We’ll start with this 1949 Willys Jeep, which is a largely complete project that has an original interior and will fire up with some coaxing.
What Makes it Special? These older Jeeps are far more connected to the ones that served our country in WWII than anything made in the last 30 years. And while they are small and slow compared to modern examples, many enthusiasts still carve these Jeeps up for off-road duty. This example is essentially untouched, never having been modified in any way.
Body Condition: The body is not perfect, as you would expect for a truck that has been off the road for many years. I did note the presence of rust beneath the doors in the body and surface rust in multiple places. While I can’t confirm the paint is original, I have no reason to believe it isn’t, either. It should have the bodywork addressed and be repainted if you’re looking for a show truck; otherwise, I think you can safely use it as-is and address the body in phases.
Mechanical Condition: The engine does run; however, current driving is limited to simply moving it around the property. Towing will be necessary to get the Willys to its next location. It does roll freely. The engine is believed to be original and the seller does have a title for the vehicle. One of the best attributes, as seen below, is the interior.
Overall, this Willys Jeep strikes me as one of the better buys in the collection. It is highly original and I rarely see an interior in a vintage Jeep that still has the original seats installed. The body is not perfect but there’s a vast aftermarket and enthusiast community that can supply any needed metal panels. In the meantime, this is a usable project that could be restored mechanically and then enjoyed while the cosmetics are improved.
- Asking Price: $4,000
- Location: Northwest Georgia
- Mileage: Unknown
- Title Status: Clean
Do you have a low mileage survivor parked in your garage, shed or barn? Does it need a new home? Please consider listing it here on Barn Finds!
Such a cool rig. I still miss my ’51. Thankfully it’s living a good life in Rick Pewe’s backyard now.
What year did Jeep go to 1piece windshield ? Dad had a ’48 and as I remember it was 2 piece.
1949 with the 3a model. The 2 piece would be correct for your Dad’s 48 CJ2a.
We have a ’48 here at the shop, and its a 2 piece…and with the original “Go Devil” L134. Runs better than most of the modern vehicles here… sorry for it being on its side, we had a bad windstorm here in Denver yesterday…
It was ‘48 or ‘49 when the switch from the 2A to the 3A happened. But there was a little overlap between those two models so I’m not exactly sure. I’m sure one of the Jeep experts can chime in and tell us.
1949 was the year they produced the CJ2a and also introduced the new and improved CJ3a. All 2a’s originally had the 2 piece glass that pops open and the 3a’s had the one piece glass (the frames are interchangeable). Also the top and windshield height is several inches taller on 3a’s vs.the 2a’s, the rear wheel tubs are shorter overall for more legroom up front and they have a C-channel frame with each side stamped in one piece.
If I were in the market for a jeep, I would be a definite buyer! Would be a awesome jeep to own! This is a real jeep!
Does the sale price include the camper shell precariously placed on top?🤔
Just there to prevent sun damage to the soft top…I thought it was smart. But if you want it, I’m sure we can work out a deal for the camper top.
CJ3A’s were produced in lower quantities than the earlier CJ2A — making this 1949 model a somewhat rarer find even though newer. Parts and upgrades are plentiful. This one is in a decent place/state for a restoration — not too far gone (too $ to restore), and not too “nice” either (too $ to obtain).
Jeeps are fun! (photo: 1946 cj2a)
I agree. He actually got it cleaned up and running today!
Gosh darn good looking jeep!