These are basically the mechanical equivalent to a good pair of flip-flops. Our goal with designing this project was to return to the roots of 4x4’s: a super simple, highly capable, utilitarian beast. Now of course we still engineered modern coil-over suspension, modern engine, transmission, transfer case, axles, brakes, steering, electrical etc… but we kept it a no-frills experience. The original Willys design embodied three key values sorely forgotten in modern automotive design and manufacture: Utility, Longevity and Durability.
We chose The CJ38 because the high hood line allows us to fit a wider range of interesting engines. It was affectionately referred to as “The Dog”, or “Dog Face” during and after the war. We call it The Dog”.
Aluminum bodied, CAD designed. We initially launched this as a new standard ICON model, but we never saw the volume of interest and sales we see with the other models, so we discontinued it. As soon as we did that, many peole reached out and asked why we did so. We did because without the sales volume, we could not exploit the efficiencies needed to offer it at the original target price point, lower than that of the FJ. We also discovered, as we designed and built them, that the smaller size, despite the reduced content, actually was very complex to engineer. To make all the elements work well together in such a small space, is difficult.
So we reintroduced it on a time & materials basis, as part of our Reformer line of projects. Here you see a few different ones we have built.
Sand Tan CJ3B. This one was built with a full cage, with laser cut and Chilewich upholstered removable shade canpoy. 33" M/T's on ProComp wheels. GM Ecotec power, five speed, coil suspension etc...
Tons of fun. Freeway capable, but where they really shine is in town and on the trail. They are so small that they can fit places other 4x4 trucks can not!
This soft top was crafted from the original WWII Blueprints, using marine canvas. The size of the windows was increased, and secondary window panels were added to the front doors.
Here you can see some of the engineering complexity involved. Modern Dana axles, four wheel disc brakes. LED aux lights, Warn winch with synthetic cable.
Here it all is deceptively simple. Full function gauges, switches for the locking differentials, Lights, Heater, Wipers, power port and LED indicators for high beam, signals, 4x4, parking brake and check engine light. CNC'ed, knurled and enameled knobs.
The seating is super simple, yet quite comfortable. Front buckets are aircraft inspired, crafted in aluminum, then powder coated. Seat pads are in marine foam, wraped in Chilewich, removable. Removable rear seat is inspired by the original.
This shot shows the hidden mechanical beauty in the CJ3B, our chassis all done and ready for the body. Here you see the four link rear suspension and rear axle.
