As we continue to work on the 1961 Willys Jeep truck restomod, we can finally see it take shape. After designing and building the custom chassis and suspension, we move on to the engine and transmission install. Make sure to go back and catch up on this custom build up to this point here.
This 1961 Willys Jeep truck arrived to our shop with its original flat-head straight six engine, but obviously since we are increasing the weight, height and overall size of this vehicle, we needed an engine that could handle all of this. A common swap would be a Chevy LS engine which we have seen be used in all types of builds, but we wanted to be different so we went diesel. To be mores specific, we decided to use a new Cummins 2.8L turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine for this build.
As you can see in the photos, the foot print of this small engine can still be a tight fit once we get all the engine accessories and body installed. The install has gone smooth and we are very happy with our choice up to this point. Next we matched up the Tremec TR4050 and Atlas II transfer case.
Next we will be getting our cab, body panels, fenders and truck bed ready for install and paint. Check back with us in a few weeks for more updates.
