Another Identification Question

[51 CJ3]

Hi everyone, I'm new to the Willys Jeep world and have an unbelievable amount to learn. The first thing I'm trying to figure out exactly what I bought last week. I have a clear title that says it's a 1951 CJ3a and a matching 451-GB1 VIN tag on the firewall. However, right below the VIN tag is a body id tag that reads J-2A 81296. I have yet to locate the frame number. I followed some links posted in other threads and it seems to me I have a CJ2a tub with a CJ3a windshield but I wanted to ask some more experienced people before I jump to any conclusions.

Thanks,
Jeff

 

[Sasquach]

i think you will have more sucess here:TheCJ2Apage.com everything about the Willys CJ2A Jeep

 

[BusaDave9]

In '53 they only made the CJ3a which had a windshield like yours. But the serial number tag does make it look like a CJ2a body. I agree it is confusing.
http://www.jeep-cj.com/forums/f7/jeep-cj-models-9098/
The serial number 81296 looks like it's a 1946 CJ2a . Check out this link: 45-49 CJ2A Serial & Number Information Page
I come up with the same year on this site too:
The CJ2A Page -- History of the CJ2A
Those top bow storage brackets on the left side of the body say it's a CJ2a .

Here is a really good web page to tell the differences between a CJ2a and a CJ3a : CJ2A and CJ3A differences

I agree with your suspicions, it looks like you have a 1946 CJ2a body with a CJ3a windshield.

Check out the above link and look at your engine mounts to see if the frame is a CJ2a or a CJ3a

 

[51 CJ3]

Thanks for the helpful info and links. The motor mounts tell me I have a CJ3a frame. The frame serial number tag is nowhere to be seen though. I hate to ask this next question because I know it is very difficult to answer by looking at pictures but I am wondering what this jeep may be worth as it sits. It does run but needs the carburetor rebuilt. There are a couple of cracks on the frame but nothing serious or hard to fix (the body would not have to be removed). The body itself has little rust. There is a line across the back where Willys put wood inside the frame (not sure of the proper terms here). There are a couple of cracks in the body that need repaired. One front fender mount/support is rotted through. The fender mounted steps are pretty much gone. The front floor and tool box are solid. Disc brakes on the front. I haven't had it on the road yet but it drives and shifts good around the yard.
Anyone care to hazard an opinion?

Thanks,
Jeff