Willys MB, Vortec 5.3 Build

Hi guys, let me introduce myself first.
Im Sebastian Varas, from CHILE, Southamerica.
I had been navigating this EXCELLENT web site since a few month now.
Really good forum and nice Jeeps over here.
Normally I post at Pirate4x4 or at twistedandes.com, the largest chilean offroad website, wich I own with 3 more buddies.
Well now to the work...
After ownig several Jeeps (1 CJ3B, 2 CJ7´s, and 1 TJ plus 3 Samurais and 1 FJ40) I decide to built an MB. The goal is to have a very "WWII original look" but with a modern drivetrain and 36" tires.
So with that idea in mind, I strarted last march with this project.
Currently is 85% done....still need to work on the engine wiring, brakes plumbing, fuel lines etc....

I think I´ll start posting some pics so you can see it...

The day I picked



The real owner of the MB, my son..



Only thing I used was the body, new 4x2 frame was fabbed...





Axles arrived, both are Wagoneer D44´s with 4,10 gears and ARB´s.



Mmmmm......dreaming...

 

Ok, we have a rolling chassis...springs are Waggy fronts and CJ7 rears (in this pic the rears were Waggy units, but just for the testing....)



fish tails...



He made the choice....R)R)



Drivetrain....2002 LM7 (5.3L) with LS1 intake. Built TH350 and D 300.

 

Novak adapter for the TH350/D300



First day we put the engine inside.....talking about a tight fit ???:?





Mmmm...it seems that I´ll need to cut a bit....WB is 89,5"



ok....now this thing look more like a Jeep....

 

Mmm.....first fail I guess.....I was suppouse to start this thread at the Fabricators forum ??...moderator...please feel free to move it if you think it´s better.
Sorry, Thanks...
Sebastian

 

yep i recognize that jeep too. great build.

 

I've been watching your thread at pirate. I went for the "Tonka Toy" look with my A1 as well. I'm still running original drivetrain for now. Going to see what I can break for awhile driving it. I'll be watching your progress. :driving:

 

Long time without posting....to lazy

Well, the MB is alive and kicking.

Here a few recent shots and a video of the first test.
I broke the front driveshaft in the first dune, so all was done in 4x2.

Sebastian

 

And the video....


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtXRkO0Uh8Y

 

Ok, here is the link to the complete process....


http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=777868&highlight=willys+gen+iii