1948 Willys Overland Utility Jeep Station Wagon
If you're going to own something as cool as this 1948 Willys station wagon, you may as well get it right. Stylish yet built to work hard, these tough little wagons provide the kind of nostalgia that drives the hobby, yet still make sense in today's world, something that can't be said of many hobby vehicles. It's impossible to ignore the Jeep DNA running through this wagon's veins, although it was the upscale, suburbanized alternative to WWII's favorite 4x4. The light-colored ''frames'' were perhaps meant to recall wood wagons of the past, although this one is 100% steel, so no worries about maintenance. Flat-top front fenders, lending this wagon a tough but stylish attitude that remains appealing even more than half a century later. The restoration is just beautifully done about 12yes ago but still shows well. However, if you want one that you can use on a regular basis but that will also be competitive at any show you attend, this is a fantastic choice. The handsome burgundy paint shines up nicely, the bodywork is in good order, and the chrome is far nicer than you'd expect for a commercial vehicle like this. Has some minor flaws but nothing that distracts from this awesome overland. You can fit six inside on the split bench seats, which are neatly divided to allow good access to the rear areas. The burgundy vinyl upholstery is tough enough for everyday use and has a simple, flat pattern that works well in this late 40s hauler. There are carpets up front, which were a real luxury in something like this, while the rear area has beautifully finished wooden rub strips for durability, although I'd never put anything in there again, it's just too pretty! The oversized steering wheel makes the unassisted steering feel light and agile around town and all the gauges are clustered in the center of the dash, Jeep-style. It's basic, yes, but basic is good when you need uncompromising reliability. Three-on-the-tree shifting frees up room for a center passenger and this was a bare-bones machine, although has a radio ( needs repair ) but it does include a heater and the turn signals where optional. But surely all of that adds to this Willys' appeal; it's all about getting the job done. The engine is the standard 134 cubic inch inline-four, called the ''Hurricane'' for reasons that aren't altogether apparent. What it is, is durable, reliable, and torquey, perfect for the Willys all-purpose mission. It's rebuilt and nicely detailed, an oversized air cleaner designed for harsh environments, and easy service access. Parts are still plentiful and if you can't keep this thing running well, then you probably shouldn't be playing with old cars. A big radiator keeps it cool even in the hottest weather and there are correct fittings and details throughout. The 3-speed manual transmission shifts easily and it includes an overdrive that makes it a genuine 60 MPH cruiser on the highway. Rigid axles, leaf springs, and a grumbling single exhaust are ties to its military roots, but this one is so clean that it's hard to believe that it ever worked for a living. Steel wheels with Willys hubcaps, trim rings, and great-looking 6.70-15 wide whitewall tires complete the suburban look. This is an easy machine to like. Practical, attractive, and there's probably nothing more American than a Jeep-based station wagon, and this is one of a great driver quality and reasonably priced. Financing Available, Call today! South Jersey Classics 52 Rt 40 Upper Pittsgrove TWP NJ 08318 Office 856-521-0832 Cell 856-200-6121 Financing Available SJClassics.net
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