350-Powered 1952 Willys CJ-3A

Description

The 1949–53 Willys CJ-3A was part of the “Universal Jeep” series, a civilian adaptation of the military Willys MB used during World War II. It retained Jeep’s classic boxy silhouette, flat fenders, upright grille, and round headlights, but it was enhanced with thicker seat cushions, increased legroom, and better top weatherproofing for more comfortable daily use. 

The CJ-3A was powered by the reliable L-134 “Go-Devil” four-cylinder engine, producing 60 horsepower. The drivetrain featured a strong transmission, transfer case, and axles for reliability at work and off-road.

Despite its relatively short production span, the CJ-3A played a crucial role in transitioning the Jeep brand from military to civilian life, cementing its reputation as a durable and versatile vehicle for work and recreation. Popular Mechanics concluded, “The new Willys Jeep CJ-3A is a go-anywhere, do-anything vehicle that’s as much at home on the farm as it is on the trail. With its four-wheel drive and power take-off options, it’s a mechanical mule for the modern man.”

And this customized 1952 Willys CJ-3A is even more capable. It features a small-block V8 with a beefy Turbo 400 and Dana drivetrain, a Rancho suspension with off-road tires, and a long list of professionally installed, off-road-ready modifications.

Highlights 

• Unique CJ-3A optimized for on- and off-road fun 

• Chevrolet 350 cu-in V8 engine 

• Three-speed Turbo 400 automatic transmission 

• Finished in red with a red and black interior 

• Tilt steering column with Saginaw power steering 

• Four-wheel disc brakes 

• WFO Concepts-built roll cage 

Features 

• Modifications include: 

  • Performance 350 cu-in V8 with a lopey cam 

  • Rams Horn manifolds to Morse mufflers (great rumble tone but not too loud) 

  • Rebuilt and tuned carburetor 

  • Electric fan (doesn’t overheat even in 100-degree temperatures) 

  • Rebuilt Turbo 400 transmission with gentle shift and Lokar tall gear shifter 

  • Jeep model 20 standard transfer case 

  • Single Stick Dana 18 transfer case 

  • Custom driveshaft 

  • Rear end offset Dana 44, 30-spline, one-piece flange axles with disc brakes 

  • Rancho 2.5-inch spring under, 1.75-inch wide leaf springs 

  • Front disc brakes from a CJ 30 

  • 15-inch Centerline wheels wearing 33x10.5R15 LT BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/A tires 

  • Front-mounted tow hitch points and all electrical fitted for towing behind motorhome with Blue Ox hitch   

  • Rear tow 2-inch hitch receiver with electrical socket 

  • Grant steering wheel 

  • Center console with Uniden CB radio 

  • High-end stereo with Pioneer deck in fold-down panel 

  • JL Audio marine 6.5-inch speakers in custom pods with hidden wiring 

  • JL Audio marine 500w 5-channel amp 

  • Bazooka 250w 8-inch subwoofer under the rear seat 

  • Passenger side floor heater 

  • Brand new AGM Platinum 12V battery under rear seat with new cables and under hood shut off 

  • 100-amp alternator 

  • HEI ignition 

  • Classic KC spotlights 

  • Factory 10-gallon gas tank under driver seat with transfer pump to WFO-built 18-gallon tank behind rear axle, bottom 1/4-inch skid plate, in-tank fuel pump and sender, under-hood fuel pressure reduction valve 

  • Warn winch with through from bumper cable 

  • Original-spec, through-floor brake pedals, clever vacuum assist dual diaphragm mounted behind passenger seat on frame rail 

  • VDO 120-mph speedometer and gauges for oil pressure, coolant temp, voltage, and fuel level 

  • Ravelco Anti-theft immobilizer 

Known Imperfections 

• If over 6 feet tall, the driving position can be cramped 

• A few minor body cracks around fenders etc 

• Tires will need replaced within a year 

• The spare deflates slowly 

Included 

• Keys 

• Custom made triple thick California Deluxe Cover (see photos) 

• Custom made high current charge cable with terminals in front passenger wheel well 

• Spare Ravelco Immobilizer plug in 

Ownership History

This 1952 Willys CJ-3A wears an Assigned Identification Number from the state of California.

The consignor states, “This is a hot rod 1952 Willys CJ3A Jeep. Apart from the original body, almost everything else has been rebuilt and upgraded. It's a classic restomod with all quality parts and is professionally built. Period-correct stance, look, and feel. And it drives very well with a lot of power.”

“When I saw the Jeep was for sale in 2022, I bought it right away. Trevor from WFO Concepts in Auburn, California, and his team did a significant rear end rebuild and general clean up in 2020. I bought it from Tim, the owner, introduced by Trevor. I have owned this Willys for three years and have really dialed it in. The Jeep has been towed 4 wheels down (with the driveshaft disconnected) for about 3,000 miles total. It is light and easy to manage. This is not my daily driver, it has been stored under cover and has only been used occasionally. Extremely light use, and not taken off road apart from a few easy trails.”

“While total mileage is unknown, the mileage is correct for the engine and transmission now in the vehicle.”