🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

CJ-3B

Year:

1955

Chassis Code:

CJ3B

Generation:

CJ Series (Willys CJ Series)

Oem Manual Identifier:

Likely a Willys-Overland internal designation, though not explicitly stated in product info.

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The CJ-3B represented a robust, utilitarian off-road vehicle, a direct descendant of the World War II Willys MB Jeep. It was a workhorse favored for utility, agriculture, and military applications, as well as recreational off-roading.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed primarily with other light utility vehicles and early civilian 4x4s. Its simple, rugged design and the Willys legacy set it apart.

Key Features:

The distinctive high hood (to accommodate the larger Hurricane F-head engine), robust 4x4 system, and simple, durable construction.

Manual Value Proposition:

This manual is essential for owners and mechanics seeking to maintain, repair, or restore the iconic 1955 Jeep CJ-3B, providing factory-accurate information for all critical systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete factory service and repair coverage for the 1955 Jeep CJ-3B.

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided in product info, but indicative of comprehensive coverage).

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (implying digital format, likely PDF).

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and specifications for the Hurricane F-Head 4-cylinder engine.

Transmission:

Service and repair procedures for the T-90 3-speed manual transmission, including clutch and transfer case.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle assemblies (Dana 25 front, Dana 44 rear), universal joints, driveshafts, and differentials.

Suspension:

Front and rear leaf spring suspension, shock absorbers, and steering linkage.

Brakes:

Hydraulic drum brake system, including master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake shoes, drums, and lines.

Electrical System:

Ignition system, charging system (generator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, gauges, and wiring diagrams.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, and carburetor (likely a Carter YF or similar).

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, pipe, muffler, and tailpipe.

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, fenders, hood, windshield frame, seats, and interior trim.

Body Hardware:

Door hinges, latches, window mechanisms, and weatherstripping.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bolt patterns, lug nut torque, and tire specifications.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and electrical system diagnostics.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components and systems.

Overhaul:

Complete engine, transmission, and axle overhaul procedures with detailed disassembly and reassembly instructions.

Specifications And Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values.

Alignment:

Wheel alignment specifications and adjustment procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical system wiring schematics for accurate diagnosis and repair.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF, allowing for print-on-demand or selective printing).

Print Quality:

Designed for printing, likely scans of original factory documents or high-quality digital reproductions.

Binding Type:

Not applicable for digital download, but if printed, would typically be spiral-bound or perfect-bound for workshop use.

Paper Type:

Not applicable for digital download, but original manuals often used durable paper stock for workshop environments.

Searchability:

Likely OCR processed for keyword searching if a PDF, enhancing ease of use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

Willys Hurricane F-Head

Engine Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV), F-head design

Displacement:

134 cubic inches (2.2 liters)

Bore X Stroke:

3.1875 in x 4.25 in

Compression Ratio:

6.5:1 (typical)

Horsepower:

Approx. 72 hp @ 3200 RPM

Torque:

Approx. 114 lb-ft @ 1600 RPM

Carburetor:

Single-barrel carburetor, typically Carter YF series.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (historically leaded gasoline was common).

Ignition Type:

Battery and Ignition Coil with Distributor.

Cooling Method:

Water-cooled, pressurized system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Manual

Number Of Speeds:

3 forward gears, 1 reverse gear

Transmission Model:

Willys T-90

Optional Transmission:

None typically offered for this model year.

Transfer Case:

2-speed transfer case (Dana 18) with part-time 4WD engagement.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch.

Gear Ratios Transmission:

Specific ratios available in the manual, but typically low geared for off-road capability (e.g., 1st gear around 2.5:1).

Gear Ratios Transfer Case:

Low range approx. 1.77:1, High range 1:1.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

80 inches (2032 mm)

Length:

Approx. 131.5 inches (3340 mm)

Width:

Approx. 62 inches (1575 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63 inches (1600 mm) to top of windshield frame (variable with top).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2,500 lbs (1134 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3,750 lbs (1701 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not officially specified in modern terms, but designed for heavy work.

Cargo Bed Length:

Not applicable to standard CJ-3B body style (typically open bed or passenger compartment).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (No standardized crash testing equivalent to modern vehicles existed in 1955).

Active Features:

Four-wheel drive system for enhanced traction and control in off-road conditions.

Passive Features:

Basic metal body construction. Seat belts were not standard equipment in 1955.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Minimal. Typically a basic AM radio (optional) and analog gauges.

Driver Assistance Features:

None. This vehicle predates modern driver assistance systems.

Connectivity Features:

None.

Headlight Type:

Sealed beam headlights (standard for the era).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for precise intervals and oil type).

Tune Up Interval:

Recommended periodically, including spark plug, points, and condenser checks/replacement.

Lubrication Points:

Numerous grease fittings for suspension, steering, and driveshaft U-joints; manual details all locations.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate and specific engine recommendations from the era, manual will specify).

Engine Oil Capacity:

5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Gear oil, SAE 90 (GL-1 or GL-3).

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

Gear oil, SAE 90 (GL-1 or GL-3).

Axle Differential Fluid Type:

Gear oil, SAE 90 (GL-1 or GL-3, possibly limited slip additive if equipped, though rare).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid (ensure system is flushed and filled with correct type).

Known Issues:

Rust (especially in floor pans, fenders, and windshield frames), potential for worn engine components (e.g., valve guides), clutch wear, and leaks in various fluid systems. Electrical gremlins due to age and wiring condition are also common.

Restoration Considerations:

Availability of original parts can be a challenge; many owners opt for upgrades or reproduction parts. The manual is key for identifying correct parts and procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep's heritage traces back to the Willys MB of WWII, making it a symbol of ruggedness, utility, and off-road capability.

Model Evolution:

The CJ-3B evolved from the CJ-3A, featuring the significant upgrade to the Hurricane F-head engine, which necessitated a taller hood. It continued the legacy of the CJ line as a versatile civilian Jeep.

Production Years:

CJ-3B produced from 1953 to 1968.

Manufacturing Location:

Willys-Overland factories in Toledo, Ohio, USA, and licensed production internationally.

Sales Figures:

Exact figures for 1955 not readily available, but the CJ series was a strong seller for its segment.

Historical Significance:

The CJ-3B was a crucial model in establishing the civilian Jeep as a versatile vehicle for work and recreation, paving the way for future CJ models.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the CJ-3B itself may not have specific awards in the modern sense, the Jeep brand and its predecessors are widely recognized for their contribution to off-road vehicles and their role in automotive history.