Might buy a 63 Wagoneer, Problem areas to look for?

[M Jared]

Hi, I'm new to this forum - not a current Jeep owner yet. There's a 1963 Wagoneer for sale near me that has caught my eye. Are there any problem areas or known issues I should be looking for? I'll be checking it out more closely this weekend. I've never seen a grill like this thing has on it. Very cool looking front end. Looking for some guidance here, Thanks.

[willam]

First thing to look for is rust. Floor pans are availible; rockers, quarter panals also. Things like rust in the roof, the window pillar, window frames etc.. are usually the big things that result in a trip to the crusher. Unless you are a gifted fabricator a body shop will charge more than you can imagine for fixing it.

How original do you want to keep it? Springs for the post mount can be had, parts for the closed knuckle Dana 44 up front are around but the rear can be difficult. The electrics are usually shot, plan on upgrading/replacing most of that. Interior parts can be replaced with stuff from later models but guage cluster etc ( unless yours are rebuildable) can't be had.

The original motor/trans/transfer can be worked with, parts are out there or you can always swap later stuff in.

Bottom line is condition of the body and how cheap it is. If your looking for a long term project and have a lot of money to spend go for it. BTW - The Rhino grill can be found and transpanted onto later model rigs. If your looking for bolt on replacement parts that can be found without to much trouble your barking up the wrong tree. If you want a dailty driver that you can wrench on during the weekend look for a later model. It's all about what you can do vrs what you think you can do.

I'm working on a '63 J truck right now. Virtually everything need to be gone through/replaced. I knew this when I got it and I'm still amazed at the thing I keep forgetting about that require extra $$$. It never ends, but I'm not complaining..........just telling it like it is. good luck

[Headhoncho]

Like William said, you better have alot of time, tools, and money because chances are everything will need to be gone over. Don't think it'll be like an early mustang or such as there is no aftermarket support for one that old. As I get older I'm more willing to pay a lot more for something complete, original, and in good condition as opposed to a modified fixer-upper with a ton of miles. What part of Pa are you in? Do you have any more info as far as drivetrain on this thing?


JR

[drlocke]

All the above postings certainly apply.

The OHC I6 "tornado" engine is an interesting motor, and was way ahead of its time when introduced to the market. IIRC it required special tools and techniques on some of the overhaul/maintenance of it. Many end up repowering rather than tinkering with that engine.

[Herk]

If it has the independent front suspension, RUN AWAY!!!!

[Tonka J200]

Don't let the 230 OHC Tornado scare you off. I have two "Twister 6" powered Jeeps, one that I've put over 12,000 miles on since I've owned it. They are an interesting engine and a great conversation piece.

Like others have said, it depends on what you plan on doing with it. If you are going for a 100% showroom restoration, plan on spending some money and time tracking down parts. They're out there, but it takes some digging.
If you're looking to do a resto-mod or something just to have fun with, there are a lot of parts that swap over from later years and other vehicles, so season to taste and enjoy!

[Mikel]

If it has the independent front suspension, RUN AWAY!!!!

Why? That would make for a VERY unique vehicle, if the new owner wants to restore it to original.

[J4GRAND]

parts for the closed knuckle Dana 44 up front are around but the rear can be difficult.
The front axle will actually be a Dana 27 in a rig this old. The first front 44s didn't show up until 74 on the Wags; only the J trucks had a 44 closed knuckle front end.

[willam]

The front axle will actually be a Dana 27 in a rig this old. The first front 44s didn't show up until 74 on the Wags; only the J trucks had a 44 closed knuckle front end.

My OOps! listen to the experts, amatuers like me just stink up the joint.