The Jeep CJ5: From Workhorse to Thoroughbred!

1966 CJ5

The little Jeep CJ5 emerged from the proven ruggedness of the earlier Military Jeeps from World War II through the post-Korean War eras.



In 1955 Willys-Overland had already been bought out by Kaiser Industries (1953) although Kaiser continued to call the Universal vehicles "Willys" with dealerships known as Kaiser-Willys...the CJ5 was born.

The actual model for the original CJ5 was the U.S. Military's M38A1 (2 years earlier) which sported the rounded-off front fenders. (See picture below!)

1955 M38A1 Military Jeep

Note: The Willys CJ3B managed with the flat front fendered old military design from 1953 through 1964 and was produced for a period with the CJ5's as well.

Jeep manufacturers have always looked for the most profitable markets for all of their models, especially the post-war civilian or CJ styles. Not particularly suited as a family ride or street commuter the CJ5 niche was carved mostly in farming, ranching ,mining and other rugged outdoor work environments.

These tough little 4x4's were invaluable in extreme climates and road conditions for getting to and from work sites or simply getting to work at all. Thanks to the Military heritage and their literal "trial by (or under) fire", the Universal Jeep had the workhorse pedigree.

But could it become a thoroughbred in the civilian marketplace?

Well, we know the answer to that question as the Jeep CJ5 became the benchmark for greatness in functionality and utility throughout its 28 year run from 1955 through 1983.

However, at least the initial intent of the CJ5 design was for utility in tight inhospitable conditions such as narrow trails with undercarriage busting rocks and unstable surfaces.

And few other vehicles can accomplish these tasks with such ease when in the hands of an experienced pilot. See more on the Jeep CJ5 and Jeep safety.

Jeep enthusiasts and serious off-roaders are often highly attracted to the Jeep CJ5 for its off-road versatility and no-nonsense go anywhere capabilities. There is definitely still a loyal following for CJ5 owners, users and re-builders.

I personally have never owned a CJ5 although I have driven several, but I once owned a mildly modified 1953 M38A1, which you may recall is the CJ5s early military predecessor. This old Jeep could climb a tree! Well...maybe with its big aircraft winch on the front and the transplanted Buick Dauntless V6 engine it could. Seriously, this vehicle was awful on the street, but was absolutely incredible off-road!

That M38A1 did however give me a taste of the CJ5 in its early beginnings...and I for one was quite impressed with its off road abilities.

(Learn a bit more about the M38A1...Click Here)

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