Jeep CJ-2A

1945 to 1949 · Civilian utility 4x4 · North America, Export Past model

The CJ-2A was the first Jeep built for sale to the public: the wartime MB reworked as a farm and work vehicle with a tailgate, side-mounted spare, flush headlights, and bright civilian colours. Production began in July 1945 and ran into 1949, with about 215,000 built.

Generations, newest first

1945–1949

Jeep CJ-2A Universal

Willys turned the MB into the 'Universal' Jeep for farms, ranches, and industry, adding a tailgate, a spare wheel on the side, larger headlights set flush in a seven-slot grille, and the sturdier T-90 gearbox. The first ones used up wartime parts such as the MB's rear axle, and the column shift gave way to a floor shift early in 1946. A basic CJ-2A had only a driver's seat; passenger seats, tops, power take-offs, and a long list of implements were extra. Sales were brisk even with war-surplus jeeps on the market, peaking at about 74,000 in 1948 before the CJ-3A took over.

Willys L-134 Go Devil L-head I4

Open body with tailgate

In the family

Came beforeWillys MB and Ford GPW (1941–1945)Came afterJeep CJ-3A (1949–1953)