1956 Willys CJ-5

$10,000

Year

1956

Make

Willys

Model

CJ

Odometer

62,000 (TMU)

Engine

350 ci V8

Fuel Type

gasoline

Transmission

manual

Drivetrain

4×4

VIN / Chassis #

5754834504

Seller

private party

Location

Seattle, WA

Title Status

clean
This 1956 Willys CJ-5 4×4 is a modified early-production example powered by a Chevrolet 350 cu.-in. V8 paired with a manual transmission, dual-range transfer case, and Warn overdrive. Showing 62k miles on the odometer, this CJ has been extensively refreshed and upgraded with drivetrain, suspension, braking, and fuel system improvements. Offered by a private party in Washington with a clean title.

  • SBC 350 V8 Conversion: Powered by a Chevrolet first-generation 350 cu.-in. V8 (casting #3970010) equipped with 882 cast iron heads, an Edelbrock 1405 4-barrel carburetor, and an Accel HEI ignition system. The setup delivers a substantial increase in power over the original Willys drivetrain while maintaining straightforward serviceability.
  • Upgraded Drivetrain & Gearing: Equipped with a T-90A transmission, dual-range transfer case, and Warn overdrive (Model 33V6), paired with a Dana 25 front axle and Dana 44 rear axle with 5.38 gearing. New drivelines, yokes, and supporting components have been installed, along with a Novak aluminum pan.
  • Suspension, Steering & Braking Improvements: Fitted with a Rugged Ridge lift kit including new leaf springs and shackles, along with Rancho RS7000 shocks. Steering has been upgraded with power assist, and braking includes front disc conversion (1976 Jeep components) with upgraded rear drums.
  • Recent Mechanical Refresh: Work includes a complete new fuel system (tank, pump, stainless lines, sending unit, AN6 braided hoses), new ignition components, new gauges, and recent fluid and oil service. Compression test performed with good results.
  • Trail-Ready Equipment: Riding on 33” Super Swamper tires and equipped with an 8,000-lb Warn winch with new 3/8” cable, dual exhaust, roll bar, and auxiliary lighting. Additional included parts include a tow bar, steering stabilizer, gasket kits, seals, and various service components.
  • Ownership & Known Issues: Current owner has had the vehicle since 2014 and has completed the majority of refurbishment work. No prior history is available. Known issues include worn 3rd gear synchro, transfer case and overdrive gasket seepage, driveline parking brake needing adjustment, and intermittent speedometer function at low speeds.
About the 1956 Willys CJ-5
The Willys CJ-5 was introduced in 1955 as a civilian adaptation of the military M38A1, bringing improved comfort and drivability to the original Jeep formula. With its rounded fenders and slightly longer wheelbase compared to earlier CJ models, the CJ-5 became one of the longest-running Jeep designs, remaining in production for nearly three decades.

Early CJ-5 models like this 1956 example are especially valued for their simplicity, lightweight construction, and mechanical accessibility. Their compact size and rugged ladder-frame design make them highly capable off-road platforms, and many have been modified over time with more powerful engines and upgraded components to enhance usability on modern trails.

Powertrain
  •  350 cu.-in. Chevrolet V8 (casting #3970010)
  •  Edelbrock 1405 4-barrel carburetor
  •  Accel HEI ignition system
  •  Manual transmission (T-90A)
  •  Dual-range transfer case
  •  Warn overdrive (Model 33V6)
Axles & Drivetrain
  •  Dana 25 front axle
  •  Dana 44 rear axle
  •  5.38 gear ratio
  •  New drivelines and yokes
Exterior
  •  33×12.50 Super Swamper tires
  •  8,000-lb Warn winch with new cable
  •  Roll bar and side bars
  •  Auxiliary halogen lighting
  •  Stainless side mirrors
Interior
  •  Rugged Ridge seats with custom frames
  •  New gauges with tachometer
  •  Kenwood stereo with Pioneer speakers
  •  Swing pedal conversion
Modifications & Upgrades
  •  Rugged Ridge suspension lift (springs and shackles)
  •  Rancho RS7000 shocks
  •  Front disc brake conversion (1976 Jeep components)
  •  Upgraded rear drum brakes
  •  Complete new fuel system
  •  Power steering conversion
  •  Dual exhaust system
This 1956 Willys CJ-5 4×4 is offered at $10,000 by a private party in Seattle, Washington. With a V8 conversion, extensive mechanical updates, and included spare parts, it represents a usable and well-sorted early CJ platform with known needs already disclosed.

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