Hi, new bloke here, from the UK

[TJones]

I’m not real sure Derrick but you have it in a real way!!!
And what I’m talking about is the “Passion” WOW
To read your story, the search, find and restore!
I’ve never seen it in anyone especially after all you’ve through
Keep it rolling Buddy, and mid-life crisis does come at 70
I’ve seen it in several of my older friends, be Thankful of your health to chase it!!

[Derrick]

I wouldnt say I have a 'passion' for a Jeep

I like it, its cheap to run, (cheap insurance, no MOT and no road tax to pay) I can drive in to London and dont have to worry about any congestion charge or the ULEZ

Sort of easy to maintain, it's a rugged wagon

Its my daily drive

It will cope with all weathers (but mine is undercover in the winter)

I can fill up the tank, keep a Jerry can in my bustle and I can go anywhere

I may not break any speed limits

But when I go out driving it I always worry it will break down

(I think all Jeep owners worry about that)

[LarrBeard]

"But when I go out driving it I always worry it will break down"

But, the good news is that it is small and easy to push if you need to!

[bmorgil]

Derrick, the very principal of the Jeep idea was rugged and reliable. If you keep it in good mechanical shape, it wont break down. They are very simple machines for that very reason. The drive train is overkill by far. The motor is an industrial flat head. As long as you take care of the simple things as they occur it wont leave you stranded. A good tune up, fluids and keep an eye on the usual things like water pump and fuel pump that have a tendency to wear out. Some preventative maintenance is in order for trouble free operation.

[Derrick]

After I take the cover off, I go round, count the tyres, give am a kick, lift the hood/bonnet, check water, oil

Look underneath for leaks

Then jump in and start it up, watch the ammeter, see how much its charging the battery
look underneath to check the drip tray, no oil leaks

Kick the tyres once more

Let it warm up and thats it all done

Off we go

[bmorgil]

Process complete Derrick! I would recommend one last step. Once it comes up to temperature and with the engine running, check the front water pump bypass hole for dripping water.

One these old water pumps, under the pump snout behind the pulley there is a small hole. It is in front of the water pumps seal. As the water pump bearings and seal wears, the seal will start to drip coolant. As soon as you see that drip its time for a water pump. If it ever fails the fuel pump, it ill run fine with a siphon feed from a gas can.

It wont leave you, its a good soldier.

[Derrick]

A new water pump went in when the new engine went in

[bmorgil]

Better not see a drip when you look then Derrick!