Historical Segment:
Compact, rugged utility vehicle. Primarily served civilian and military markets seeking off-road capability and durability.
Contemporaries:
Land Rover Series I/II, International Harvester Scout, early Ford Bronco.
Utility Focus:
Renowned for its robust construction, simple mechanics, and exceptional off-road prowess, making it a versatile platform for work and recreation.
Long Wheelbase:
The CJ-6 is distinguished by its longer wheelbase compared to the CJ-5, offering increased cargo space and improved ride comfort.
Covered Years:
1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975
Estimated Page Count:
Variable (typically 500-800+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (F-head Hurricane, Dauntless V6, various inline-6 options), Transmission (T90, T86, T14, TH400, TH350, Dana 18, Dana 20 transfer cases), Drivetrain (front and rear axles, propeller shafts, hubs)
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, leaf spring suspension (front and rear), steering system (manual and power steering options), braking system (drum brakes front and rear, hydraulic components)
Electrical System:
Ignition system, starting and charging system (generator/alternator), lighting system, wiring diagrams, dashboard instrumentation, accessories
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, convertible top mechanisms, fenders, hood, grille
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacement, tune-ups
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics and repair, bodywork repairs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common mechanical and electrical faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, measurements, component identification, exploded views
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and adjustment of all major vehicle components.
Early Engine Option:
Willys-Overland Hurricane 'F-Head' Inline-4 (2.2L / 134 cu in)
Later Engine Option:
Kaiser Jeep Dauntless V6 (3.7L / 225 cu in OHV V6), also offered various inline-6 options (e.g., Chevrolet, Buick variants)
Hurricane Hp:
Approx. 60-75 hp
Dauntless V6 Hp:
Approx. 150-155 hp
Carburetor Type:
Single-barrel or two-barrel carburetor (e.g., Carter WCFB, Rochester)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (early models may have been designed for leaded)
Early Transmission:
Warner Gear T90 3-speed manual
Later Transmission Manual:
Warner Gear T86 3-speed manual, T14 3-speed manual
Automatic Transmission:
Turbo Hydramatic TH400, TH350 (3-speed automatic)
Transfer Case:
Dana 18, Dana 20 (2-speed, part-time 4WD system)
Gear Ratios:
Variable by transmission and transfer case model. Manuals detail specific ratios for all options.
Wheelbase:
104 inches (2,642 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 153-160 inches (3,886-4,064 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 62-65 inches (1,575-1,651 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 66-70 inches (1,676-1,778 mm) (depending on top and configuration)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,000-3,400 lbs (1,360-1,542 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 4,500-5,000 lbs (2,041-2,268 kg)
Crash Safety Data:
No standardized crash test ratings available for this era. Safety features were rudimentary by modern standards.
Braking System:
Hydraulic drum brakes front and rear. Early models might have had less effective braking systems.
Seat Belts:
Optional or rudimentary lap belts in earlier models. 3-point belts may have been introduced or retrofitted later.
Rollover Protection:
No integrated roll cage; relies on windshield frame and body structure. Aftermarket roll bars are common.
Original Infotainment:
Basic AM radio (optional), analog gauges (speedometer, fuel, temperature, oil pressure).
Driver Aids:
None by modern standards. Focus is on mechanical systems.
Connectivity Features:
None. Mechanical linkage and electrical circuits only.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific engine and oil type)
Tune Up Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles (ignition components, carburetor adjustment, etc.)
Engine Oil Grade:
API SG or SF rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 common (check manual for specific engine/climate)
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil for manual transmissions (e.g., 80W-90); Dexron III/Mercon for automatic transmissions.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Frame Rust:
Prone to rust, especially around suspension mounting points and rear crossmembers. Regular inspection and treatment recommended.
Brake Wear:
Drum brakes require frequent adjustment and are less effective than modern disc brakes. Squealing and fading can occur.
Engine Seals:
Older engines may develop oil leaks from seals and gaskets (e.g., rear main seal, valve cover gaskets).
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors can be finicky and require regular cleaning and adjustment for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Jeep Legacy:
Direct descendant of the World War II Willys MB Jeep, establishing a reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability.
Cj Series Development:
The CJ-6 was introduced as a longer-wheelbase variant of the CJ-5, offering greater utility and passenger/cargo capacity.
Manufacturer:
Willys-Overland (until 1953), Kaiser-Jeep (1953-1970), American Motors Corporation (AMC) (1970-1983)
Production Period:
1955-1975 (for the CJ-6 model covered by this manual)