Need help figuring out year on this jeep

[maflake]

Need help figuring out the year on this jeep. I have the serial number and some pics.

Serial Number: 8305017 374776
The nameplate states that it was manufactured in Toledo Ohio by Jeep Corp.

1785

1786

1787

1788

1789
Any help would be appreciated.

Mike

[LarrBeard]

Deciphering ancient Egyptian or Gothic German is easier that figuring out Willys numbering since they started different systems just about every time owners changed.

Here is a very good link to numbering systems:

http://jeepwillysworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Vehicle_Indentification.pdf


Now, how do we break this out?

8305017 374776

First two digits - 85: This is a Universal CJ-5

Second two - 05: Open body

Next digit - 0: no real meaning - all vehicles had 0 here

Sixth digit - 1: Left hand drive

Seventh digit - 7: V6-225 CID engine with Emission

The last six digits are a sequential serial number, probably stamped on the frame somewhere. 374776 hints that it is probably (a term often used with Willys numbers) a 1956 model year.

Sequential Serial Number stamped on the top of the passenger side frame rail above the front axle rear spring hanger, and above the rear axle.


That numbering system was used through 1971 - the CJ-5 didn't change all that much.

[maflake]

Deciphering ancient Egyptian or Gothic German is easier that figuring out Willys numbering since they started different systems just about every time owners changed.



8305017 374776



Seems like 374,776 would put it into the late 60's early 70's...on the paper 1967 was only up to 225,469

[LarrBeard]

Well, it looks like I saw another digit somewhere ...
Sorry 'bout that.

[maflake]

Well, it looks like I saw another digit somewhere ...
Sorry 'bout that.

The tailgate is odd. It says Willys but there's red paint under it. I'm wondering if someone add it. Seems like the 70's models had a jeep tailgate.