Jeep CJ-3A

1949 to 1953 · Civilian utility 4x4 · North America, Export Past model

The CJ-3A replaced the CJ-2A with a one-piece windshield, more headroom, and a firmer suspension for farm work, while keeping the L-head Go Devil four. Built from 1949 into 1953, it was the last of the low-hood flat-fender civilian Jeeps and the basis of the military M38.

Generations, newest first

1949–1953

Jeep CJ-3A

Launched in the fall of 1948, the CJ-3A looked like the CJ-2A at a glance, but its one-piece windshield was taller, had a vent below it, and put the wipers at the bottom. Willys also moved the driver's seat back, shortened the rear wheel wells, and added a 10-leaf suspension to carry farm implements, which is where most of its advertising was aimed. The drivetrain stayed with the Go Devil four, T-90 gearbox, and Spicer 18 transfer case, with the rear axle upgraded to a Spicer 44 in 1951. About 132,000 were built before the high-hood CJ-3B took over in 1953.

Willys L-134 Go Devil L-head I4

Open body with tailgate

In the family

Came beforeJeep CJ-2A (1945–1949)Came afterJeep CJ-3B (1953–1968)RelatedJeep M38 (Willys MC) (1950–1952)RelatedJeep Dispatcher (1956–1984)