1960 Willys Utility Wagon
The mystique and facination with the Willys Overland / Jeep
series of vehicles never seems to wane. For over 60 years it has been America's
"Go Anywhere" vehicle. Produced by the hundreds of thousands in
various configurations, there are probably few places in the world that
these rugged vehicles have not gone, road or no road. While most of the
vehicle that flowed from the famous lineage have been open-topped vehicles,
several hard-topped and wagon models were produced to appeal to the everyday
family consumer.
Helping to restore this one to driveable condition was a real
pleasure, but it was not restored to stock/original condition... a few modification
have been made. The owner wanted a vehicle that would be more driver and
freeway friendly than the original. So the first thing that was changed
was the old 4wd drivetrain. It is now a 2wd with a chevy small-block under
the hood and a 4-speed automatic trans. A TCI front end was installed to
improve handling, and the suspension upgraded all around as well.
Its days of rock-hopping and trail exploration may be over,
but the classic styling of this original SUV will live on as it cruises
down the interstate in its new life as a rolling piece of history.
Hot Rods & Custom Stuff, 2324 Auto Park Way, Escondido, CA.,
1-800-HOT-ROD-5.
Hot Rods & Custom Stuff - builds, restores, paints, services and sells
parts for classic autos, cars, trucks and street rods.