Restoring a vintage Jeep is an uncommon pastime, but it’s a rewarding one. Whether you’re a history buff, military re-enactor, vintage car show participant, or someone who wants a tough and durable vehicle to drive on- and off-road, vintage Jeep renovation is a fun and endlessly fascinating hobby. Naturally, it also comes with its challenges.
While reliable, Jeeps are quirky and puzzling beasts. It’s easy to make a few errors during the renovation process, but don’t let that discourage you! Here are nine common mistakes to avoid when restoring vintage Jeeps. Keep them in mind while you work, and you’ll enjoy restoring your Jeep with less blood, sweat, and tears!
Underestimating How Long It Will Take
There are no quick fixes where vintage Jeeps are concerned! While they were designed to be tough and easy to repair under combat conditions, vintage Jeeps are old. If they saw heavy use in their time, that means they have more than enough mileage. They will need much more than a quick oil change and a paint job, so plan the restoration thoroughly!
Establish the Jeep’s current condition, which parts require repair or replacement, and how much time, money, and effort are at your disposal. Then, set a timeline for restoration, but be flexible to avoid frustration and disappointment.
Not Hitting the Books
You don’t want to restore the Jeep without doing research first. Even if you are mechanically inclined and familiar with the workings of more modern vehicles, only some of that knowledge will come in handy with a vintage Jeep. Familiarize yourself with your vehicle, its personal history, and the history of the model. Seek out books (yes, actual books!) about the model’s specs and common issues. Online research, especially on vintage Jeep forums, is a good source of information, as well, but nothing beats hard facts in book form. You’ll learn how the Jeep works, what each part does, typical flaws, and so much more! Listen to older hands in the vintage Jeep restoring field. They know from whence they speak.
Not Busting Rust
Rust is the eternal enemy of vintage vehicles. Wage war on it! Ignoring corrosion leads to structural problems, safety issues, and potential engine and other parts failure. Worry about getting your vintage Jeep up and running before fretting about appearances. Inspect the vehicle for rust from top to bottom, never overlooking the chassis and undercarriage. Treat rust spots, replace rusted-out parts, and invest in quality rust inhibitors and treatments to stave off future rust damage.
Skimping on Quality
We all want to save money. While it is possible to cut corners here and there, buying better (and likely pricier) parts is always smarter than skimping. Purchasing cheap replacements that will break down and risk damage to your Jeep and danger to you and your passengers is a bad idea. Your Jeep requires specific, special, and sometimes custom-made parts. Always opt for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or better-quality aftermarket alternatives. They will be costlier than whatever aftermarket “deals” you come across online, but they will be reliable and ensure your Jeep runs perfectly and retains its value.
Forgetting the Paper trail
Every vehicle has a history in the form of a paper trail. When you purchase a vintage Jeep, insist on copies of these records from the seller. If they cannot provide papers, find another Jeep to avoid unpleasant surprises. Papers confirm authenticity, maintenance schedules, accidents, repairs, and replacements.
Continue to document your Jeep’s story by keeping a folder or digital record of all the above, as well as before and after photographs or repairs, store receipts, progress notes, letters, and similar documentation. If you ever sell your Jeep, this information should make the process smoother, and the next owner will appreciate it as you did.
Never Testing
Never assume all is well under the hood and around the rest of the vehicle. Before, during, and after restoration, subject your Jeep to testing. Check mechanical systems, test the electrical system, take it for a test drive (if you’re at that stage), and explore the vehicle’s functionality. Testing helps you catch errors and problems when they’re still small, manageable, and affordable to fix. Your vintage Jeep might be trying to tell you something—listen!
Failing To Seek Help
There’s pride in being the person who brought a Jeep back to life, but there’s no shame in asking for help while doing so. Changing the oil or tires or replacing a headlight may be no big deal, but when it comes to rebuilding the engine, rewiring the vehicle, or doing detailed paint work, call in a pro with the proper tools and skills for the gig. Yes, it will cost a bit more than doing it yourself, but it will also save you time and possibly your life in the future.
Neglecting To Put Safety First
Restoration is fun, but don’t forget to keep safety at the forefront. Think about what’s important when deciding what to fix first. Prioritize bringing the brakes, seatbelts, and lighting systems up to snuff, and make sure they meet modern safety standards. They may not be entirely “authentic,” but they are necessary if you plan to take the Jeep out on the highway or off the road. Mind the suspension system, as well. An updated suspension system may not have existed during WWII, but it will ensure a smoother, safer ride with better handling. It’ll also keep the vehicle in one piece and offer a more comfortable ride as you tackle various terrains.
Not Expecting the Unexpected
Vintage Jeeps will surprise you in good ways and, unfortunately, bad. Parts are hard to find, so when you buy replacement parts, consider investing in extras, just in case. Additionally, don’t expect the same feeling of driving that you get from modern, enclosed vehicles.
Fuel economy is not always the greatest, so any effort to improve this with modification will make the trip to the gas pump hurt less. Likewise, seats won’t be heated, GPS and other modern conveniences won’t be present, and other basic safety equipment may be missing unless you install them. Figure out your budget if you long for these creature comforts!
Do everything in your power to avoid these nine common mistakes when restoring vintage Jeeps! Once you surmount them, setting up your finished Jeep will be a lot of fun. Whether you intend to render it period-perfect with authentic Willys Jeep paint or want to make it a more contemporary vehicle with a flashy paint job and accessories, vintage Jeeps offer a lot of work and a lot of excitement!