Vintage Willys Jeeps were originally built to take on almost any kind of terrain, in any kind of weather, under battle conditions. Overlanding isn’t quite as dangerous as that, but it places certain demands on a vehicle. Fortunately, Jeeps offer the strength, durability, and speed necessary to handle whatever the road can throw at them. A vintage Jeep is more than a museum or car showpiece, and it’s never truly “happy” unless it faces a challenge or two. Overlanding in a Jeep is a terrific way to meet the road in more ways than one. Combine adventure with nostalgia as you tool down the highway or leave it for the boonies. Here’s an overlanding guide for Vintage Willys Jeeps to help you start planning.
What Is Overlanding?
Overlanding. It’s a funny word. In truth, it tells the whole story. Overlanding combines off-road driving with self-sufficient camping. It’s not just about getting somewhere. It’s about seeing what there is to see, exploring, and forming a stronger connection with the land. Traditional off-roading favors a few quick hours of racing or riding over hills and other obstacles. Overlanding, on the other hand, emphasizes long-distance travel, sustainability, and survival in remote locations. Fully restored vintage Willys Jeeps offer a reliable traveling companion and “steed” for just such adventures. Still, they can’t do it without a little extra preparation. Take steps to ensure your Jeep remains in great shape even when you’re as far as can be from the nearest vintage vehicle mechanic. Here are a few musts to keep in mind while getting ready for your trip.
Essential Preparations for Overlanding in a Willys Jeep
Preparing for overlanding means ensuring your Willys Jeep can handle challenging terrains and long stretches on the road. Here are a few key steps to get your Jeep ready:
Inspect and Maintain Your Vehicle
Your overlanding adventure starts with a thorough inspection and basic maintenance. Naturally, change the oil and filters before they get too dirty and stick to a regular replacement schedule. Give the vehicle a thorough once-over as well. Look for worn-out parts, check fluid levels, watch for leaks and target rusted components. Once you find an issue, take care of it. Better to handle it at home than on a remote hilltop somewhere. Pay particular attention to the engine, drivetrain, suspension, and brakes. Naturally, some parts that are hard to find at home will be impossible to find elsewhere, so replace them now. Contact Army Jeep Parts to source genuine m151a2 parts!
Upgrade the Tires and Suspension
Sometimes, the land you go over won’t be too friendly to your vehicle. Ensure your vehicle is ready for all kinds of roads and trails, whether they’re muddy, dry, pitted, rocky, or worse. All-weather off-road tires are your best bet for safety and gripping power, as they stay intact under heavy use. Make sure your suspension is also ready to rock. Upgrade your tires and suspension to handle heavy loads (you’ll be traveling with a lot of supplies) while absorbing the beating some of the rougher roads can turn out. Talk to your mechanic about the best choice of suspension upgrades. Many Jeep fans favor reinforced leaf springs to keep driving smoothly and safely.
Install Recovery Gear
Inevitably, even the best-prepared vehicle finds itself literally stuck in the mud or some other sticky situation. Install a winch, purchase recovery straps, and pack traction boards among your other gear to keep the adventure going when your Jeep finds itself swamped, stuck, or in a similar situation. Keep the recovery gear light, if possible, so the engine deals with less weight as it regains balance.
Must-Have Modifications
It’s nice to have an authentic and historically accurate vintage Willys Jeep. However, a few modern conveniences can make your life easier and keep the trip safe while overlanding. Consider installing the following upgrades.
More Light
Beyond a pair of basic headlights, vintage Willys Jeeps are lacking in lighting technology. Better lighting is a necessity for overlanding since you may travel through dark stretches of land where, as the saying goes, you can’t see your hand in front of your face. Install brighter headlights, LED light bars, and auxiliary lights on the roof and sides for better visibility at night.
Update the Electrical System
Go electric! Swap out older 6-volt systems for a modern 12-volt one that is more compatible with modern technology such as GPS systems, refrigeration units, USB chargers, and other electrical conveniences. You don’t have to bring every piece of technology with you, but some will make the trip more pleasant.
Extra Storage Solutions
Jeeps aren’t known for roominess, so you should figure out ways to make the most of your space or add new storage solutions elsewhere. Roof racks, storage boxes, and under-seat compartments—find modular storage solutions that won’t compromise weight, handling, or visibility.
Comfort Is King!
Roughing it has its charms, but there’s no need to live like a caveperson (who happens to own a vintage Willys Jeep). Here’s how to add some comfort to your “warhorse.”
Install Better Seating
The Jeep’s original seat cushions look great for shows and parades, but they don’t lend themselves well to hours of driving. Install high-density foam replacements or similar seats to stay comfortable on long drives.
Add a Reliable Canopy or Top
There’s nothing like feeling the sunshine on your face and the wind in your hair as you drive! However, that feeling gets old fast, especially when the sunshine turns into driving rain or sleet. A hardtop canopy is fine if you prefer it, but you can more easily remove and replace a soft-top model and it will protect you and the cabin interior from nasty weather.
Onboard Water Storage
You literally can’t live without water, so make sure you have a few gallons stowed somewhere onboard.
That’s an overlanding guide for Vintage Willys Jeeps. Talk to your mechanic about further modifications and find folks online who have made the journey in their own vintage Jeeps for other suggestions. And of course, contact us for a consultation if you need to source reliable m151a2 parts!
