We've had the little Willys for seven years now and I knew it was legendary. But, this was the first time we had it on the trail (a real trail). With 29" tires, zero lift and open diffs the Willys out performed everthing else. Its size was the advantage, with 29's it still has awesome ground clearance because it all tire. I was truly amazed.
On mine I'm not going to have an intercooler. Only going to run 6psi. I'll beef up the engines cooling system with an aluminum radiator to help keep the entire engine cool. The average speed on the trail is about 2 mph so theres definitely no air blowing through an air/air type intercooler. Could put a fan on it, but then we would have alot of plumbing which will lead to turbo lag. I want that turbo to spool up as soon as I touch the throttle. I have chosen an IHI RHB5 model VI55. This came on small Isuzu engines (1.5L-2.0L). The old flathead doesnt flow as much air as a modern OHC engine and doesnt have the rpm range. So the turbo is undersized by engine size but should be right for actual engine air flow.
I have most of my parts already. Turbo is brand new ($158 on ebay
thats a steal), almost new weber 2 bbl. carburetor with small manifold from a turbo beetle, still need to fabricate the exhauast manifold. I'm using the stock axles with a lock-right in the front. 16" American Racing Mojave Teflon wheels w/ 32" MTRs. Suspension is Black Diamond 3" lift.
Anyway I'll post more pics tonight when I get home.
Login
Register
FAQ
Search
If I ever build one I would love to put a diesel in it. VW...or maybe I could find a wrecked CRD to cannibalize 
Of course the EGR would have to go. Post some more pics up if you've got em.
