1948 Willys-Overland Jeepster

This 1948 Willys-Overland Jeepster was acquired by the seller in 1987 and was subsequently refurbished over the next two years. The vehicle is powered by a replacement 134ci Hurricane F-head inline-four paired with a three-speed manual transmission with overdrive and is finished in two-tone yellow and black over black vinyl. Equipment includes a black convertible top, 15″ steel wheels with polished hubcaps, front bumper guards, a bright T-shaped grille bar, an AM/FM radio, a heater, and a split front bench seat. An aluminum radiator was installed in 2021 and the speedometer cable was replaced in 2024. This Jeepster is now offered with service records and a clean California title in the seller’s name.

The truck was repainted its current shade of yellow and black during the aforementioned refurbishment in the late 1980s, at which time the brightwork was rechromed, a replacement black soft top was installed, and the windshield was replaced. Additional features include front bumper guards, a bright T-shaped grille bar, a split front windshield, an antenna, and side curtains with plastic windows as well as a spotlight, fog lights with amber lenses, chrome-plated fender steps, wrap-around chrome trim, and dual tail lights. The seller notes pitting on the chrome and aged paint.

The 15″ steel wheels feature polished hubcaps and are mounted with 5.90-15 Sears Allstate Classic wide whitewall tires. Stopping power is provided by drum brakes at all four corners, and a spare tire is mounted at the rear. The truck was factory equipped with an independent front suspension as well as semi-elliptic rubber-mounted transverse front and conventional rear leaf springs.

The cabin features a split front bench seat upholstered in black vinyl. Amenities include an AM radio that has been modified for FM transmissions as well as a heater, dual horns, and sun visors. Tears are noted on the upholstery.

The two-spoke steering wheel features a bright horn ring and fronts a centrally mounted instrument panel housing an 80-mph speedometer as well as gauges for fuel level, amperage, oil pressure, and coolant temperature. The five-digit odometer was reset to zero during the refurbishment and now shows 7,400 miles. Total mileage is unknown. The speedometer cable was replaced in 2024.

The 134ci Hurricane F-head inline-four was installed prior to the seller’s acquisition. An aluminum radiator and replacement hoses were fitted in 2021. There are engine oil and coolant leaks.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual transmission with overdrive.

Various photos from the 1980s refurbishment are provided in the image gallery below along with an assortment of service records.