The Willys Jeep enthusiasts remain as passionate as ever. They continue to tackle slick rock and muddy routes, conquering obstacles that contemporary Wrangler owners could hardly dream of with their customized Rubicons on 40s. Even better, they’re discovering innovative ways to enhance vintage vehicles for off-road capability. Seth Hensler exemplifies this with his vibrant red-and-yellow, Wankel-engine rig.
If your social media feed recognizes your love for vintage 4x4s, you might have come across Hensler’s @redeye_garage profile. His collection includes several other jeeps, one of which is equipped with a diesel VW engine. The rotary engine serves as a fascinating contrast to that one, but in a positive light.
At the heart of it all is a 1949 Willys CJ-3A chassis, covered by a 1945 Ford GPW body. The two-rotor 13B engine hails from a 1991 Mazda RX-7, featuring a Racing Beat intake paired with FiTech electronic fuel injection, and instead of opting for a large turbocharger, it remains naturally aspirated. This is because it doesn’t require any additional engine power to perform effectively.
All power is transmitted through a five-speed manual gearbox from an RX-7, followed by a twin-stick transfer case from a Suzuki Samurai. This transfer case includes 6.5:1 gearing, resulting in a final crawl ratio of 126:1. Since daily driving isn’t a concern, it can be more hardcore than a contemporary Wrangler Rubicon with its 100:1 ratio. Nonetheless, Hensler assures me it can still reach 80 (!).
Lock-Right lockers are incorporated in the Dana 25 front axle and the Dana 44 rear axle, each equipped with 5.38 gears, if you’re taking notes. It also boasts disc brakes on all corners. Don’t worry, though; it still sports a set of 7.50-16 Firestone NDT tires.
Completing the design is a canvas top that Hensler crafted by hand in his workshop. I admire that level of craftsmanship, showcasing a genuine enthusiasm for DIY projects. Many individuals I know may take care of the mechanical work but leave upholstery tasks to professionals. Not this guy.
The final product is an agile jeep that weighs—believe it or not—2,100 pounds wet. It’s more maneuverable than ever, and considering the original Go-Devil four-cylinder produced only 60 hp with 105 lb-ft of torque, Hensler has not compromised on performance with this modification. Instead, he created a unique crawler that sounds fantastic without being excessively loud, thanks to the Aero-Tech resonator and Magnaflow muffler.
Hensler mentioned he receives a lot of criticism for his setup. “Prepare for a wave of comments like ‘rotaries are terrible and lack torque,’” he chuckled. But I won’t add to the chorus, as it all really makes sense in practice.
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### Rotary-Swapped Wankel Willys Jeep: An Unusually Practical Enhancement
The Willys Jeep, a legendary vehicle forged in the harsh environments of World War II, has been long revered for its off-road prowess and practical design. As automotive aficionados strive to boost performance and efficiency, unconventional enhancements have surfaced, with the rotary-swapped Wankel Willys Jeep being one of the most fascinating. This article delves into the practicality, advantages, and obstacles of this unique modification.
#### Grasping the Wankel Engine
The Wankel engine, invented by Felix Wankel in the 1950s, is a kind of rotary engine that employs a triangular rotor rotating within an epitrochoidal housing. This arrangement results in fewer moving parts than traditional piston engines, resulting in a lighter, more compact power source. Known for their smooth operation, high power-to-weight ratio, and distinct sound, Wankel engines are a favorite among performance enthusiasts.
#### The Allure of the Rotary Swap
1. **Weight Savings**: A major benefit of replacing a conventional inline or V-type engine with a Wankel is the weight reduction. The compact structure of the rotary engine allows for a lighter total vehicle, enhancing handling and off-road capabilities.
2. **Power and Torque**: While Wankel engines may not generate the same torque as larger piston engines, they provide power in a smooth and consistent manner. This characteristic can enrich the driving experience, particularly in off-road conditions where reliable power delivery is essential.
3. **Simplicity and Durability**: With fewer moving components, rotary engines can offer increased reliability and easier maintenance. This simplicity is especially advantageous for off-road enthusiasts who may encounter remote areas where repairs are challenging.
4. **Unique Identity**: The unique sound and operation of a Wankel engine can impart a Willys Jeep with a distinct character, differentiating it from other modified vehicles. This uniqueness resonates with many automotive fans.
#### Practical Factors
Though the rotary swap brings multiple benefits, several practical factors must be considered:
1. **Engine Installation and Compatibility**: The compact nature of the Wankel engine opens up innovative mounting opportunities, but custom mounts and modifications to the engine compartment may be necessary to ensure an appropriate fit.
2. **Cooling Systems**: Wankel engines tend to run hotter than standard engines, necessitating an improved cooling system to prevent overheating during prolonged off-road usage.
3. **Transmission Matching**: Identifying a compatible transmission that can accommodate the power output and align with the rotary engine’s distinct characteristics is crucial. Custom adapters may become necessary.
4. **Fuel Needs**: Rotary engines typically require high-octane fuel for optimal performance, which could influence fuel availability and expenses for some drivers.
5. **Legal and Emissions Compliance**: Depending on regional regulations, assuring that the modified vehicle fulfills emissions standards may present a challenge. It’s important to investigate and respect local laws regarding engine swaps.
#### Summary
The rotary-swapped Wankel Willys Jeep represents an intriguing fusion of classic automotive legacy and contemporary engineering advancement. This modification not only improves the vehicle’s performance and efficiency but also contributes a layer of individuality that appeals to enthusiasts. While practical challenges exist, the benefits of such a swap can yield a genuinely distinctive off-road experience. As the car landscape evolves, the Wankel Willys Jeep exemplifies the creativity and enthusiasm within the modification community.