1944' Ford

Ford GPW 'Jeep'
1944 | Soft Top | 2. 3 Petrol | 3 Speed Manual | Older 'Civilianised' Restoration
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Specification:
September 1944 model, first registered in UK in February 2005. 2, 199cc 4cyl Willys 'Go-Devil' sidevalve petrol engine, coupled to a 3spd manual transmission with low/ high range and selectable 4wd. 5 x steel wheels with 6. 00R16 ?Bar Grip? tyres. Ball-type tow hitch. Drop down hood. Restored in early 2000s in Pakistan.
Description:
Probably the most famous four-wheel drive vehicle of them all, the 'Jeep' (derived from the designation 'GP', General Purpose) was arguably the vehicle that won the 2nd World War after the US military set out requirements for a low-profile, lightweight, go-anywhere vehicle. Developed by Willys-Overland, Bantam and Ford, production was shared by Ford and Willys. The vehicles from both manufacturers were almost identical, the Willys designed 2. 2 litre 'Go-Devil' flathead engine used in all models. The Jeep was the first truly practical four-wheel drive vehicle, equipped with a three-speed synchromesh gearbox and two-speed transfer box. Hydraulic brakes were standard, and a top speed of 65mph was on tap. Over 630, 200 were made from late 1941 to the end of the war. Hugely popular with all ranks, the Jeep was treated like a go-anywhere sports car which spurred on its success post-war and sparked the development of the original Land Rover, Land Cruiser and many other 4x4 and SUV vehicles.
This particular Jeep's chassis number is 'GPW 221***', suggesting it was constructed by Ford in September 1944, however there are a few Willys MB/ CJ/ Manhindra parts on the vehicle which we think may be from a donor. We know that the previous owner found the vehicle in a field in Pakistan during his time there, and had it restored by a mechanic during the early 2000s, who did an excellent job of putting it all together whilst 'civilianising' it to an extent for more practical usability. It came back to the UK with its owner in early 2005, being registered with the DVLA in February that year.
Climbing into the padded driver's seat (which doesn't leave much room behind the wheel for the 'larger' driver!), the Go-Devil flathead fires right up from cold, and is very willing on the road with that characteristic 'Jeep' exhaust note. It will get up to a cruising speed of about 45-50mph pretty swiftly, or crawl along off road in low range. The compliant road springs make for a comfortable ride, whilst direct steering makes it great fun to dart about around twisty lanes and strong drum brakes bringing it to a halt when required.
The body/ tub is in great order with only the small bit of rust on the bottom edges of the windscreen frame and front lip of the bonnet/ hood, and a bit of rippling in the panel at the back of the front wheel arch on the driver's side. The paintwork is in good order overall, and would polish up very well indeed - We think it's a more modern metallic take on the beige/ light green colour, possibly from a later CJ model but we aren't sure. The wheels could ideally do with repainting/ powder coating as the paint is starting to flake off in places. The vinyl fold-down hood is in very good order, and has large rear and side windows for good visibility, plus removable side doors which come with the vehicle.
Inside, the seats have been replaced with vinyl-covered padded items for a bit more comfort, and the floor has been lined with some sort of rubber/ vinyl matting for a bit of sound-deadening and under-foot grip. The gauges and switchgear are modern replacements that all work apart from the temperature gauge. There are vacuum powered wiper motor units, which could be piped up if you wished to, however there is a manual handle to operate each wiper arm.
Underneath, the chassis, axles and suspension are in equally good condition, there is the odd small oil leak here and there as to be expected for this era of vehicle but everything in is in excellent working order. We have recently given the vehicle a full service with fluids changed/ topped up where required, and the many Zerk fittings greased up.
This little vehicle would make a great investment that's easy to keep, great fun to use, and is something a bit different from the usual Series Land Rovers and olive-drab Jeeps. It comes with a few spare parts including the original jaw-hitch, plus it will have a fresh MoT prior to sale. There is also the registration book from Lahore, Pakistan. If you are interested in this vehicle, please get in touch!
Conditions:
We have described the vehicle as accurately as we can, but please take your time looking through the photos. Viewing is most welcome, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us. All funds must be cleared before the vehicle can be taken away. We are happy to take deposits to reserve vehicles, however this is non-refundable fee agreed on point of sale, and is valid for 7 days at which point the full balance must be settled and collection or delivery arranged.
Our full terms and conditions are available on our website.
This vehicle is for sale on behalf of a client, therefore we are unable to offer a warranty on this vehicle.
The vehicle must be collected from our premises near Church Stretton, Shrewsbury. We can also arrange UK delivery by trailer if you so require.