🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

CJ-3B

Year:

1958

Engine Code:

F-Head Hurricane

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Jeep CJ-3B represents a pivotal model in the evolution of the civilian Jeep, bridging the gap between the utilitarian military origins and the more comfort-oriented later models. It appeals to classic vehicle enthusiasts, off-roaders, and collectors.

Competitive Analysis:

In its era, the CJ-3B competed with other light utility vehicles and early 4x4 SUVs, but its iconic Jeep design, ruggedness, and off-road capability set it apart. Its direct competitors were less prevalent, with many opting for customized military surplus or dedicated agricultural vehicles.

Key Features:

The CJ-3B is characterized by its distinctive high hood (to accommodate the larger Hurricane engine), robust chassis, and legendary off-road prowess. It offered a significant upgrade in engine power over its predecessor, the CJ-3A.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain (Transmission, Transfer Case, Axles), Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body and Chassis, HVAC (if applicable), Lubrication, Troubleshooting, Specifications

Page Count:

Estimated 300-400 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), potentially printable scans

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, adjustment, and overhaul of the Willys Hurricane F-head inline-4 cylinder engine. Includes cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, lubrication system, and cooling system.

Transmission:

Covers the T90 3-speed manual transmission, including disassembly, assembly, inspection, gear shifting mechanisms, and lubrication.

Drivetrain:

Detailed information on the Dana 18 transfer case, front and rear Dana 25/27 axles. Includes removal, installation, differential overhaul, axle shaft replacement, U-joint servicing, and gear ratio specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic drum brake system service, including brake shoe adjustment, drum turning, cylinder replacement, brake line inspection and repair, and master cylinder overhaul.

Steering:

Ross steering gear service, including adjustment, lubrication, and component replacement. Tie rod ends, drag links, and steering column.

Suspension:

Front and rear leaf spring suspension service, shock absorber replacement, and chassis lubrication points.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, starter motor, generator, battery, ignition system (distributor, coil, spark plugs), lighting system (headlights, taillights, turn signals), and instrumentation troubleshooting.

Fuel System:

Carter W-1 carburetor service, fuel pump operation, fuel tank, and fuel lines. Includes carburetor adjustments and troubleshooting.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and coolant hose service. Pressure testing and flushing procedures.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel alignment, door mechanisms, windshield and wiper service, seat adjustment, and chassis lubrication.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication schedules, fluid level checks, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, brake adjustments, tire rotation.

Repair:

Complete engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, clutch replacement, axle repair, brake system overhaul, steering system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common issues related to engine performance, starting problems, braking issues, electrical faults, and drivetrain noises.

Specifications:

Torque values, engine clearances, ignition timing, carburetor settings, fluid capacities, tire pressures, and chassis lubrication points.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance, diagnostics, component-level repair, and full unit overhauls suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital (PDF) - Searchable text, printable pages, high-resolution scans.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Product) - Assuming high-quality scans of original documentation.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Willys Hurricane F-Head Inline-4

Displacement:

2199 cc (134.2 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.125 in x 4.375 in (79.38 mm x 111.13 mm)

Compression Ratio:

6.8:1

Horsepower:

75 bhp (56 kW) @ 3600 rpm

Torque:

137 lb-ft (186 Nm) @ 1400 rpm

Carburetor:

Carter W-1, single barrel

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (though leaded was common at the time)

Oil Capacity:

5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter

Cooling System Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized

Ignition Type:

Distributor ignition, 12-volt system

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Willys T90 3-speed manual

Gear Ratios:

First: 2.79:1, Second: 1.56:1, Third: 1.00:1, Reverse: 3.67:1 (Typical for T90)

Optional Transmission:

None commonly offered for the CJ-3B; the T90 was standard.

Transfer Case:

Dana 18, 2-speed with 4WD engagement. Provides low range for off-road driving.

Clutch:

Single dry plate, diaphragm spring type.

Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90 (or manufacturer recommended equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 3 pints (1.4 liters)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

80 inches (2032 mm)

Overall Length:

132.5 inches (3365 mm)

Overall Width:

63 inches (1600 mm)

Overall Height:

71.7 inches (1821 mm) (to top of windshield frame with soft top)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 8.5 inches (216 mm) at lowest point

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 3600 lbs (1633 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not officially rated by modern standards, but capable of light towing.

Cargo Bed Length:

N/A (Open body style, not a pickup truck bed in the modern sense, but platform for cargo)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No formal crash test ratings available as per modern standards for vehicles of this era.

Active Features:

Four-wheel drive system, robust chassis, effective hydraulic drum brakes.

Passive Features:

Minimalist safety equipment by modern standards. No airbags, ABS, or traction control. Seat belts were often optional or not present in early models.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM radio (optional), simple analog gauges (speedometer, ammeter, oil pressure, water temperature).

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern definition. Relies on driver skill and mechanical systems.

Connectivity Options:

None.

Lighting Type:

Sealed beam headlights, incandescent tail and brake lights.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Recommended: Valvoline Oil (or equivalent) SAE 30 (or 10W-30 for broader temperature range).

Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change. Part Number: WCF1 (Wix) or equivalent.

Tune Up Points Condenser:

Every 12,000 miles. Inspect and adjust spark plugs, points gap, and ignition timing.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 24,000 miles or 2 years. Use GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90.

Transfer Case Fluid Change:

Every 24,000 miles or 2 years. Use GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90.

Axle Differential Fluid Change:

Every 24,000 miles or 2 years. Use GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90.

Chassis Lubrication:

Every 1,000 miles. Grease all chassis lubrication points (king pins, tie rod ends, steering gear, universals, etc.).

Coolant:

50/50 mix of permanent antifreeze and water. Capacity: Approximately 10 quarts.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Known Issues:

Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, rear main seal), carburetor flooding or stalling, clutch wear, starter solenoid issues, rust on body panels and frame, worn kingpin bushings, potential wear in the T90 transmission synchronizers (if equipped).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep's heritage is deeply rooted in its military origins, particularly the Willys MB of World War II. This lineage of rugged, go-anywhere vehicles defines the brand's identity.

Model Evolution:

The CJ-3B succeeded the CJ-3A. It introduced the 'high hood' design to accommodate the larger Willys Hurricane engine, a significant power upgrade. It served as the primary civilian Jeep platform until the introduction of the CJ-5 and CJ-6 in 1955 (though the CJ-3B continued production alongside them).

Production Years:

1953-1968 (for the CJ-3B specifically, though Willys/Kaiser-Jeep produced variants and licensed versions for longer in other countries)

Manufacturer:

Willys-Overland Motors (later Kaiser-Jeep Corporation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the CJ-3B itself may not have specific 'awards', it is recognized as an iconic and historically significant vehicle in automotive history, particularly for its role in popularizing the 4x4 segment and its enduring off-road legacy.