1946 Willys CJ-2A

Description

Offered here is a beautifully restored 1946 Willys CJ-2A, the first civilian model to follow the legendary WWII-era Willys MB. Produced by Willys-Overland Motors, the CJ-2A marked a turning point in American automotive history, bringing the Jeep's rugged, go-anywhere capability to the public for the first time. Designed primarily for agricultural and rural use, these early civilian Jeeps helped shape what would eventually become the modern off-road utility vehicle segment.

This example underwent a comprehensive multi-year, frame-off restoration that was finished in 2006 and still presents extremely well today. The tub was replaced with a new unit and that body is finished in a glossy blue and retains key hallmarks of the CJ-2A's iconic design, including flat front fenders, a split windshield, and the familiar 7-slot grille. Attention to detail throughout the restoration process was meticulous, resulting in a Jeep that honors its original purpose while remaining fully usable today.

Under the hood is a correct 2.2-liter “Go-Devil” inline-four engine, producing approximately 60 horsepower. It's mated to a 3-speed manual transmission and a part-time four-wheel-drive system via a Dana 18 transfer case. The drivetrain has been fully restored and remains in excellent running condition. The front axle is a Dana 25, while the rear is a Dana 41, both true to original spec. Braking is handled by drum brakes at all four corners, and the suspension uses traditional leaf springs, giving the Jeep its characteristic utilitarian ride. Rolling on 16-inch steel wheels painted gray with red pinstriping, this CJ-2A sits on period-style Firestone truck tread tires, including a matching full-size spare mounted on the rear quarter panel.

The interior stays correct to the CJ-2A's utilitarian roots, offering a no-nonsense layout that reflects the vehicle's original role as a working tool. Both the driver and passenger seats have been carefully restored and reupholstered in period-correct materials, providing a surprisingly comfortable perch behind the iconic spartan dash. Simple, clearly labeled gauges sit in a steel dash panel finished to match the body, and the floorboards are clean and solid, offering a bare-metal aesthetic that's both functional and honest to the era. A manually operated windshield vent, exposed shift levers, and minimalist switchgear reinforce the hands-on, analog nature of early Jeep engineering.

Included with the sale is a binder documenting the restoration timeline in detail, featuring photographs, invoices, and a written summary of the work completed. The vehicle remains in excellent condition, having been well cared for since, and is fully driver-ready today.

This CJ-2A is a rolling reminder of America's transition from wartime production to postwar innovation. Restored with care and respect for its origins, it embodies the spirit of a generation that valued durability, simplicity, and utility. It's ready for the next chapter, whether that's in a collection or continuing its life on the trail.

Key Highlights

• Multi-year, ground-up restoration
• Period-correct restoration
• 2.2L "Go-Devil" I4
• Borg-Warner T90 3-speed manual transmission
• Part-time 4WD
• Classic Firestone truck tread tires
• Dana 25 front axle
• Dana 41 rear axle
• Dana 18 transfer case
• Binder containing timeline of work description, invoices, and photos