Author Topic: Willys MB build  (Read 77421 times)

Wingman

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Willys MB build
« on: March 01, 2014, 11:29:04 PM »
The secret build revealed!

Some know that I've been shopping for "random" parts and asking unusual questions that would lead one to believe that a super-secret project was afoot.  Those who had to be made privy were sworn to secrecy.  A heavy burden...

After much reading, image reviewing, and deliberation, I think I've finally come to the conclusion that my next project will be a ground-up custom Willys MB build, for "wreck" and road only.  I've always loved the reputation and appearance of the WW2 Willys Jeep.  Not quite buggy status (I'll probably regret this later) but a build that will only use the grille and hood from the real thing.  The body dimensions will remain intact with a slight front clip extension to make room for the drivetrain.  The goal is to remain small and as lightweight as possible and keep all of the look of an American classic.  While not a thorough-bred, a tribute none the less.  May have to add some real bullet holes, err, I mean, speed holes.

Couple of inspirational pics:




Starting points:
D44 front w/RCVs
Ford 9' HP rear
D300 t-case
5.3 aluminum LS
4L60E
4-link rear?
3-link front?
coilovers?
flat belly ~20"
2x4 box frame
integrated full cage
tin body panels
36-37" tire/wheel combo
full hydro steering
~86-87" wheel base
dropped seating
lower windshield and cage height
low COG
road legal

Think "big kid's go-cart" (borrowed phrase)

Always open to words of encouragement, criticism, tech wisdom, and heckling.

So, there it is.  Now to collect some more parts, tools, material, and ambition...
« Last Edit: March 02, 2014, 08:47:05 AM by Wingman »
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jaysenodell

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #1 on: March 02, 2014, 07:56:50 AM »
Nice. Willies were a big part life when I was younger. I'm in for labor help if you need any.
Mid Life Crisis in the making -- '02 TJ i4 manual, Aussie Locker magic pulling from the front

cracker

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #2 on: March 02, 2014, 08:06:04 AM »
good luck sounds awesome

rejeep

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #3 on: March 02, 2014, 08:35:58 AM »
Everybody loves a flat fender....

I never wanted a red car.. always thought they were tacky and common...
I now have 4 very not common cars and they are all red.. :o

SlvrJK

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #4 on: March 02, 2014, 08:48:41 AM »
This is gonna be sick, I'll be watching this one for sure.  I would like to build a willies at some point as well. 
2008 JK X 2-door, 37" Nittos, 3.5" Clayton LA, Prorock 44, Rock Jock 60, and lots of armor...

Ryan

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #5 on: March 02, 2014, 09:42:48 AM »
Sounds like a good plan.

Couple suggestions from someone who has some experience with the D44. Dont do it. Go right to the 60. And a 60 in the back too. You caould get away with stock 60 front shafts as well, but I would do the 35 spline with the Yukon lock outs. Or removeable drive slugs.  Seems the money you would spend making a D44 stron enough would be better spent elsewhere?

The d44 will not be up to the task, not with a LS motor in there.

The D300 is also questionable, but I guess it could work...... But with a V8? An Atlas would be a better choice, get the low gearing and strength.

mr.mindless

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #6 on: March 02, 2014, 10:16:18 AM »

Couple suggestions from someone who has some experience with the D44. Dont do it. Go right to the 60.
... Seems the money you would spend making a D44 stron enough would be better spent elsewhere


I see what you're after with the lighter axles and case but for the price of a RCV'd 44 you could probably be close to a 9" front running stock or cromo 60 shafts. Lighter and stronger than the 44.


Nobody should ever use a 44 in something it isn't already under :)


Tapatalking in traffic
Quote from: etk300ex
oh lord!

gif

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #7 on: March 02, 2014, 10:49:17 AM »
Love it!


I vote D60 front.

Loco jeep is a great example .

350tbi / NV4500/ D300    Eaton rear (old school 14B)   
He tried for years to keep a D44 under the front of his jeep.    Spent mad money swapping on "better" parts.
After breaking two shafts in one trip, he was done.

I sold him D60.  He put in 35 spline shafts and slugs.   Done.      Now he has a Built D44 he cant give away...

Next weak link was the D300,  popped the rear output.      Loco has a heavy foot   ;D



Is this a list of parts you have?   or a wish list

rejeep

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #8 on: March 02, 2014, 10:52:35 AM »
44's are fine
D300 is fine
LS motor is wrong... 8)

spare me and don't destroy a MB...
dont be another Jeep built tough with chevy stuff....

I never wanted a red car.. always thought they were tacky and common...
I now have 4 very not common cars and they are all red.. :o

Nick

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #9 on: March 02, 2014, 12:09:16 PM »
The wet Willie!!!!

rejeep

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #10 on: March 02, 2014, 02:06:20 PM »
one eyed willy

I never wanted a red car.. always thought they were tacky and common...
I now have 4 very not common cars and they are all red.. :o

Wingman

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #11 on: March 02, 2014, 04:32:33 PM »
I won't be destroying an MB because it's all custom.  That was part of my decision to go this route and not mess with a real chassis.

And most of you know how I drive.  Keeping a D44 alive shouldn't be that difficult.  Had considered the front 9" route.  That may become a future option.

Of that list, I have the axles less RCVs and HP third, a couple of D300s, and the LS on the way.  Plan to pick up some steel this week.
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gif

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #12 on: March 02, 2014, 07:01:54 PM »
 

And most of you know how I drive.  Keeping a D44 alive shouldn't be that difficult.

V8 power will change that   8)

M4wdFab

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #13 on: March 02, 2014, 07:31:53 PM »
My right foot loves a tuned 5.3

Amazing how it feels like a tbi 350 when you pack the air cleaner with sand though:)

gif

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Re: Willys MB build
« Reply #14 on: March 02, 2014, 07:37:02 PM »
My right foot loves a tuned 5.3

Amazing how it feels like a tbi 350 when you pack the air cleaner with sand though:)


screw you !!    my TBI does just fine   ;D