1947 Willys CJ2A (update)

UPDATE (12/22/22): While Paul was test driving the Jeep the steering shaft broke. Which means new steering box and column. As well as a radiator cap and a carburetor (It runs but it won’t even attempt to idle). Nice to find these issues now. Suspect there will be more.

Paul is moving fast. New wheels and tires a big improvement. And a few rattle-cans of camouflage paint took care of the hideous camo. I love this flat green. Perfect.


Seats are in good shape so I’ll live with the camo there. Look close to see the 3-speed shifter, the 4WD lever, and the high/low lever. I’ll probably lose the old Igloo cooler/cubby. Looking forward to figuring out all of the dash gauges.

The hideous camo top will be the first to go. I’m planning on this being a spring/summer/fall ride. I’ll adios the flood lights, too.

I’m very excited about adding this old (there’s some question about whether ’46 art ’47) Jeep to what I guess I have to start calling my collection. Might have it by the first of the year. Late xmas present, or early birthday.

Jessie: 10 weeks

1947 Willys CJ2A

I’ve always been fond of Jeeps. Not the current models, the “original” Jeep. I’ve spotted several around town in recent years but the owners would sooner give you a leg than their Jeep. I get that. Feel the same about my Land Rover. So when Paul Bandelier mentioned he had a 1946 1947 Willys CJ2A, I raced out for a look.


Paul says the engine is as simple as a lawn mower and anybody can work on them. That’s what they told me about the Land Rover and it’s sort of true.

What would I do with three vehicles? Drive each one for two days every week? I guess this would make me a collector.