Compare & Contrast : Rear of the Willys

Annual Fall Wrap Up

Every Autumn I wind things down with the Willys as Winter approaches.  To cold to work on the Jeep, and most of the work is body work which does not get done when the temps are under 50F.  So winter brings a break.

So here is where we are, Fall 2012

Rear Valance Installed!

Great stuff.

The Rear Valance is the last piece to be installed.  The Rear Valance is what holds the Tailgate and the rear floor.  It attaches to the rear bumper and is welded to the sides of the Willys.  The welding part has not happened yet as it is being held on by clamps.  But we are close.

The clamps are straightening it out.  It came from the 1957 Willys and it is a bit out of shape.  I had to fix it up when I took it off.  So it was not perfect. 

Once I get some welding in, I think the clamps could be removed.  Can't wait to attach the Tailgate! 

Wakefield Willys Update 5.12

Progress, and new challenges.

The frame is painted, the rear of the willys is painted.  It is time to assemble the 3 remaining pieces of the jeep.  2 rear panels, and the rear valence with the tailgate.  I wish it was as easy as bolting them to the rear bumper, but it is not.

If you look closely at the rear panel attached and the rear corner they don't match up.  Not surprising considering the age of the tub and it has probably been sagging for decades.

So what to do?  See the engine crane lying there in the background.  I think it maybe time to reassemble it and use it to lift of the rear corner.  I might have to do it on both corners, I am fairly certain both sides will need some help.

So I am going to attach the other rear panel and see how bad it is, and then probably decide to erect the engine crane.  Exciting times, glad the tools are here to work with.

Replacement Tailgate Assembly!

To steal a line from the A-Team, I love it when a plan comes together!

If you have seen the rear of the 1960 Willys, it is rotted out and the worst of the body work.  This summer I hope to finally fix it.  The Replacement Tailgate Assembly is pictured and it looks great.  Fits together and is completed.  Once I get the new rear panels, I will paint them and begin tearing out the old rear portion of the Jeep.  Progress!

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.

They have returned

So I finally picked up the fenders and tailgate at RMR Restorations. I spent way more $$$$ than I was planning, which was discouraging. But they are done, and ready for the next step, prep for painting.

Here are 2 of the body parts, previously sand blasted, and now polished by the wirebush attachment and the grinder.