Wakefield Willys Update 4.10

FOUND!  1 Willys CJ5 Windshield, and in record time!

I spent several years looking for a tailgate, the windshield was found in less than a few weeks.

This is off of a 1965 CJ5, solid except for the top portion of the windshield that will require some serious welding and steel replacement.  Not that much work, but work nonetheless.

We cleaned it up, with the help of my assistant and will set it aside for the winter. 

This Willys Jeep is a real suvivor, and a true Northeast Jeep.  Parts have come from MA, CT, PA, NY and of course NH to build this CJ5.  Very cool.

Wakefield Willys Update 4.9

We are in the midst of Small Fall Projects.  Already have a few knocked off which feels good.

The windshield was removed from the 1957 Willys, and unfortunately it does not look salvageable.  It  looks fine inside and out, but the hinge corners where completely rotten out.  This is a setback, and hopefully we can find a replacement.

The aluminum top of the 1957 is also completely unbolted.  I cut the last bolt and it is ready to be removed.  That will make way for some more salvage work.

Other than that, we are golden.  Painting for the most part has come to a complete stop.  The overnight temps are not helpful.  Hence the focus on salvage work.

Fall / Winter Projects 2011

I mentioned in the previous post, I am changing gears with the weather and focusing on smaller projects.  Projects that take one day, maybe two.  Painting is optional, depending on temps.

So here is the list: (in order of priority)

windshield removal & evaluation
tailgate hinges restored
rear panel replacement found
rear valence replacement found
rear driver side corner prepped
spare tire restoration
dashboard removal
rear frame restoration
air cleaner replacement
secure battery

Wakefield Willys Update 4.8

Well, as the cold weather approaches, it is time to find small projects that are simple and will help when Spring comes.

In the picture are 2 tailgate hinges.  One with the bolts cut off, the other in process.  Also in the picture are the common tools to cut bolts.

An Angle Grinder with a cut off wheel.  A punch, hammer, and a set of pliers.  I can't count the times I have used these tools to cut bolts.  Very necessary when working with rusty jeeps.

From now until the snow flies, I will be doing simple projects like this to set the stage for further body work.  Small, but necessary and helpful.