In 1955 one of the main markets for the CJ line was agriculture and industry and the options for the CJ5 reflects this.
A PTO was a popular option as it allowed a multitude of tools to be used with the Jeep. Willys offered them from the factory and many dealers also offered them from the dealership. Koeing and Ramsey were just 2 of the brands offered. A winch was a popular add on as was the belt pulley drive and the hydraulic lift. This lift allowed a multitude of farm implements to be used behind the Jeep. A engine governor was available for ease of use. Front bumper weights were an option when using the Jeep for heavy work.
Other Options for the jeep were a passenger seat, a 2/3-1/3 bench seat for the front, rear bench seat and rear wheel cover pads. Both a hard half top and a hard full top were offered as was a soft top. A hood catch, passenger safety rail, glove box door and access steps were options for creature comfort, a pintle hook was offered for towing convenience.
For hot weather use a high pressure radiator cap was on the option list and for high altitudes they offered a high compression head. Directional signals, a rear reflector, under hood light and fog lights could be ordered. If you loved your engine, get the optional gas filter. Dual horns were offered so you could be heard. High output alternator and a heavy duty battery set you up for high output accessories.
Options were added during the early years and it can be hard to find what year an option was first offered.
By 1966 they were offering 4 speed transmissions, a T98 behind the F134 and a T18 behind the V6, also listed that year were Warn Hubs. 4 Axle ratios were offered, 4.27 and 5.38 with the F head and 3.73 and 4.88 with the V6. The Trac lock Differentials were offered.
By 1971, the last year of the Early CJ5 the option list was well filled out with ways to beef up the suspension, cooling , and engine, creature comforts and safety all being addressed.
Base Price
1955 $1,496
1956 $1,577
1957 $1,886
1958 $1,979
1959 $1,976
1960 $1,979
1961 $1,980
1962 $2,055
1963 $2,109
1964 $2,211
1965 $2,211
1966 $2,284
1967 $2,681
1968 $2,683
1969 $2,823
1970 $2,930
1971 $2,886
During this write up I sourced information form several places,
Jeep, Illustrated Buyers guide, Jim Allen
Jeep CJ, 1945 to 1983, Robert Akerson
Jeep Standard Catalog of, Patrick Foster
www.EarlyCJ5.com
www.Novak-Adapt.com
www.cj-jeep.com
Interview with George Richardson Las Vegas Nevada
Personal experience with Jeep CJs