History of Jeep

jeep historySince at least World War I, the U.S Army had been looking for a fast, lightweight all-terrain reconnaissance vehicle. Things became urgent in 1940, and the army needed to rapidly develop a new type of vehicle, and so the army put out a call to over 130 automobile manufacturers asking for a running prototype for such a vehicle in just 49 days.

Only two companies responded to this call, Bantam Car Company, and Willys-overland. The Bantam prototype was ready within the dead line however they did get outside help. Willys-overland prototype did not meet the weight restrictions (however this later was an advantage to the company as weight restrictions were changed). Bantam’s prototype was put under rigorous tests, and it was concluded that the vehicle demonstrated ample power and met all requirements of the service.

The Army’s contract was eventually awarded to Willys-overland; this was due to Bantams shaky manufacturing and financial position. The War department required a large number of vehicles to be manufactured in a short period of time; therefore Willy had to seek help and so provided for motor company with a complete set of specifications.

After the war the first civilian Jeep was produced in 1945, and had similar models for years after that until 1953 when the first Jeep with noticeable change from its military predecessor. The CJ model was updated in 1953, becoming the CJ-3B.It had a taller body grille and hood to accommodate the new Hurricane F-Head four cylinder engines, this engine was similar to the previous “Go Devil” however this new Hurricane design featured a revised valve train. This Jeep model remained in production until 1968 and a total of 155,494 were manufactured in the U.S.

A number of Jeep models proved very popular over the years. The CJ-5 (released in 1954) was the public’s ideal vehicle for their increasing interest in off road activities. Jeep also started to branch out and designed pick ups, including the Gladiator pick up which was available in an extensive range of models with three different bed options, and in both four wheel and two wheel drive versions.

Fast forward to one of Jeeps most popular models ever. The Jeep Cherokee. The tradition of rugged versatility that began in 1941 with the Willys MB finds its latest innovation in the Jeep Cherokee KJ (named Liberty in the U.S.)

A balance of on- and off-road capability and distinctive award winning style, the Cherokee combines the round headlamps reminiscent of the Willys MB, with a contemporary open, airy feel.

The unique energy of the Cherokee, along with the strength of the tried and true Wrangler and the prowess of the Grand Cherokee, leads the charge into the promising future of the Jeep Brand.

Our Jeep Parts



Jeep parts can be hard to come by if you looking in the wrong places. To find Jeep parts we suggest that you contact us and we will do the shopping for you. You can enter your Jeep part online or over the phone with one of our customer service people. Our service takes all the hassle out of finding you part. All you do is enter a request and we do the searching for you. Just sit back and relax.
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Cherokee 4X4
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