Character Galore

I have two other Jeeps: a 1966 Wagoneer, my daily transport, and a small J200 truck from the 60s, but the 1967 model is my favourite.

It needed a lot of work done and since I didn’t rely on it for transport, I was prepared to put in time and effort to restore it.

In the first three years I owned it, there was always something to fix after every trip, so I decided to give it a complete overhaul. Now, after much sweat and lots of borrowed tools, I have at last overhauled everything – from the engine through to the axles. It was well worth the trouble. Would I do it again? Sure.

As with any car that’s been around for 40 years, the bodywork is not in the best condition. My next step is to panel beat and respray the Jeep to make it look as good as new.

I also want to make sure it’s still the Jeep everyone loves as it has become quite a legend among 4x4 groups. It’s had to tow many 4x4s, just as others have had to tow mine at times. That’s life when you have a soft spot for old vehicles.

Once Jeeps get in your blood, they can consume you, or you can choose to make them part of the good times. It’s a pity that they are so scarce in South Africa.

Old military types often have tales to tell about the Wagoneer, though few were imported for the use of the military, because they are left-hand-drive. (The first Wagoneer was built in 1962 and the last one rolled off the production line in 1991.)

WHY BUY AN OLD VEHICLE?
When I bought mine, money was the main consideration, but looking back now, I doubt if I
wanted to buy anything else – there is some-thing compelling about a Jeep.
I’ve never felt worried about taking it into the bush, because every scratch and
dent simply adds character. Perhaps that is the best reason for choosing a Jeep:
it just has so much character.

ANY MODIFICATIONS?
I built in a 327 Chevy V8-engine with four barrel manifolds and Holley carbs. I’m mad about the roaring sound of the American V8 – there are few engines that sound so great. With the help of the manual you can just about do all the work on the engine yourself. I fitted Dana 53 axles at the back and Dana 44 axles in the front. They’re extremely strong and won’t let you down. I also fitted 33-inch BFG Muds tyres and want to install an electric locker in front.

IF YOU COULD CHANGE ANYTHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I would install aircon and door rubbers that seal properly. No other changes; I enjoy it just the way it is.

WHAT ABOUT MAINTENANCE COSTS?
When everything is in working order, costs are minimal, but to get the Jeep
to that point probably cost me between R60 000 and R70 000. It was worth
every cent. After that, the V8 cost me on average R300 to service, and that is it.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT IT?
I love the size and space. I can remove the back seat and fit in a double-bed mattress. When I go on weekend trips, I don’t have to pack much, because I sleep in the Jeep. Then there’s the overall character of the lad – it warms my heart just thinking of it.

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE?
When it breaks down, it does so in a big way, but now that everything’s been fixed, that’s (hopefully) something of the past.

WHAT IS A COMFORTABLE TRAVELLING SPEED?
Between 100-120 km/h.

FUEL CONSUMPTION?
It varies, but on the open road it’s about 6-8km/litre.

WHAT TERRAIN CAN YOU COVER?
Wherever you like. That’s what so great about a Jeep.

WHERE HAVE YOU TRAVELLED?
So far we’ve only used this Jeep for trips in South Africa, but we have big plans for going up into Africa next year. We never stay on the main roads when travelling.

Our last trip was through the KwaZulu-Natal countryside, visiting all the monuments of the Boer War and little villages on the way. We’ve also done just about all the 4x4 routes that are within three hours of Johannesburg.

ANY SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS BEFORE A LONG TRIP?
Check all the joints, grease them and have a normal service.

HOW MUCH WILL ONE COST ME?
One that’s seen better days will set you back about R20 000, but those that have been rebuilt can cost from R30 000 to R50 000. It depends on what work’s been done.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR WHEN BUYING?
You need to know about cars. Don’t go buy something for R40 000, which then ends up costing you an extra R60 000 to repair, unless that’s what you want. You must be prepared to spend some money on it and to sacrifice your free time. It’s best to see it as an ongoing hobby.

WHO SHOULD BUY ONE?
Anyone who loves old cars with lots of character. If you look past the character of these old vehicles and see only the problems, there’s no point in owning one.