Difference between a 55 and 63

I have a 63 cj5 and a 55 cj5. I am combining the two to make into one. What are the differences that the purists will see?

 

IIRC the early speedometer is distinctive. Are you going to call it a '55?

 

According to the literature, they have different front axles. early has the 25 and later has the 27. How you would tell is beyond me.

 

If you combine the two to build a single jeep you'll have a TRANS-VINTAGE CJ-5.
Lots of differences between the vintage standards which are not very noticable.
In fact the vintage differences are mainly undetectable to the layman.

That stated the main mechanical differences are the front frame shackles and also the transmision gearing and final drive ratio.
D25 and D27 axles are easiest to identify via the breather vent location.
D25 vent is on the cover while the D27 breather vent is on the top of the carrier section.

 

As suggested above, speedo goes to "8", instead of "9" on the early jeep, and front spring shackles are "reversed" style.

Other minor differences, such as firewall heater cutouts... Turn signals were optional...

 

Great thanks. I didnt think there was any major differences that I was missing. I will probably title it as the 55 since the 63 was a tuxedo park.

 

The '55 would have a foot starter, a smaller horn button, should be 6v (became optional after '57) with cloth wire covers, crankcase ventilation goes to the top of the intake manifold, tail lights are different, transmission cover has rounded edges vs. more square later version, pedals don't have rubber covers, shackles are C-style, speedo with "Willys" goes to 10, later '55 speedo without "Willys" goes to 8, radiator top is different, no solenoid in '55... Of course the reversed front shackles, wiring differences for no turn signals (if not optioned). My '55 has no heater cutout as it has no heater.
(You asked what a purist would see)

 

The top bow sockets on the wheel wells are different

 

Thanks this is what I wanted to hear. So far the differences are not too significant unless you are a purist (nothing wrong with it). Great input.

 

I forgot about the parking brake. the handle is a cane like a flat fender.

 

My '57 speedo is in the earlier font but goes to "9".
Only important to a purist. I've posted a pic of this anomaly before.


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