Top 10 Body Swaps

[flashman]

As I perview a fine complete Willys body on a rusty drivetrain-less chassis and wonder, my mind goes to a dark place, a complete body swap. No engine/trans./TC mount issues, modern brakes & bearings, many suspension options....it's a thought. The body was cut for a v8 so I wouldn't be hacking into history here.

Which frame would pose the least issues on the conversion? What are the main problems to deal with? If you won one free pick at the wrecker yard for the project what vehicle would you pick?

Some noteables I've seen on the web:

Chevy blazer/S10
Camaro (Jeepster)
Older Waggoneer

What say you?

 

[hogi]

http://www.oldwillysforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=923

 

[Pivnic]

Hello Flashman. Are you considering a Willys Wagon, or a Willys Pickup? I have a 63 Wagon and I'm currently working on a 57 Willys Pickup. The wagon is running a small block Chevy V-8 with the original Willys Running Gear. My 57 Willys Pickup is getting a total face lift. I'm converting the Willys body onto a Chevy 4X4 Pickup chassis. This combination will give me the whole "factory Package" with the chassis. motor, driveline, suspension, etc. It will have all the current technology and reliability and still maintain the great Original Willys Pickup Look. The best of both worlds. Check out my Build Log at: http://www.cardomain.com/ride/3805815/1 ... lys-pickup Good luck with your project.

 

[62 OlllO]

Hello Flashman, welcome to the forum. I would box the original frame, change out the axles with Dana 44's and perhaps look at a diesel power-train...just to be different I guess. Whatever direction you go, make your project safe and reliable! Good Luck.... :thumbupleft:

 

[willysworker]

abcd

 

[white52]

Hey WW, where did you get those rear fender flares? Did you make them? I've been searching for something like them. Mine are these hideously big things that the PO put on. I'd just take them off, but then I have the holes in the body to deal with and I'm not ready for more paint at the moment.

 

[willysworker]

Hey WW, where did you get those rear fender flares? Did you make them? I've been searching for something like them. Mine are these hideously big things that the PO put on. I'd just take them off, but then I have the holes in the body to deal with and I'm not ready for more paint at the moment.

willys truck rear fenders, narrowed them to 3-1/2". clear my 10.5's when stuffed to the axle stops. They bolt on so I can redo if needed :shock:

 

[Loorider]

Hey Willysworker,
I like your rear fenders too, they solve my problem as I have rotten wheelwells and want larger tires. Are those normal track dana 44's or wide track? I planned to regear the rearaxle, bur the wagoneer axle seems a better option.
kind regards,
Gerrie van der Loo

 

[roundss]

As I perview a fine complete Willys body on a rusty drivetrain-less chassis and wonder, my mind goes to a dark place, a complete body swap.

What part of the world do you call home? I'd make you a good deal on a wagon frame and axles. It's less a few body mounts but otherwise in good shape and those are easy to fab up. Shoot me a PM if interested.