BRAZ VINTAGE
The Full Story
1968 Ford Willys F75
A true testament to its history, this vehicle stands as 100% original and holds the esteemed status of a historic collector's item for over 45 years. A pioneer in its own right, being the first of its kind in Australia.
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The 1968 Ford Willys F-75 , a distinct Brazilian market version of the well-known Jeep station wagon, showcases a gracefully preserved restoration from years past. Distinguished by its unique front-end design and stylish short-bed, this pick-up truck is a timeless piece of automotive craftsmanship.
Presenting an impressive package under the hood, this vehicle boasts the robust BF-161 engine, featuring a 6-cylinder in-line configuration. With a 4x4 capability equipped with low range, it's ready to conquer various terrains.
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Navigating the road is a breeze with the 4-speed column shift gears, ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience. Remarkably, this vehicle has only clocked 70,000 kilometers, preserving its originality. Adding to its prowess, the gearbox has undergone a meticulous reconstruction from scratch, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. This well-maintained combination of torque, versatility, and attention to detail makes this vehicle a standout in its class.
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Experience enhanced performance with newly installed brakes, featuring an efficient drum system. The ride has been refined with the addition of new shocks, providing a smooth and comfortable journey. Further ensuring reliability, new seals have been meticulously fitted, contributing to the overall mechanical revision of the vehicle.
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Adding a touch of personalization, the interior has been treated to custom upholstery, marrying comfort with a bespoke aesthetic. These upgrades collectively contribute to an enhanced and revitalised driving experience.
This Ford Willys underwent a professional paint refresh, maintaining its original factory color for an authentic look. Additionally, it received a new wiring loom, new hoses, and underwent a comprehensive major service, ensuring a thorough revision. The result is a vehicle that not only runs beautifully but starts effortlessly with a turn of the key.
Completely rust free.
Complementing the truck, a set of crucial components for future services is provided. This includes oil filters, sealers, a combustion pump, condenser, carburetor gasket, injector, and distributor cap – ensuring you're well-equipped for ongoing maintenance needs.
Please enquire for walk-around / driving videos.
History of Ford F-75
Willys Jeep
Willys made its debut in the market with the introduction of the Jeep Willys in 1954, constructed with American parts but assembled in Brazil.
In 1961, the Brazilian market welcomed the Willys Pickup. This model, also known as the Willys Jeep Pickup or Ford F-75, shares similarities with the Brooks Stevens designed "Willys Jeep Truck" produced by Willys Overland in the United States from 1947 to 1965. Recognized for its commercial success, the truck offered a robust 4x4 vehicle, solidifying its place in automotive history.
* Ford Purchase *
In 1967, Ford acquired Willys-Overland, absorbing its design and production facilities. As part of this acquisition, the Willys Pickup model underwent a name change, becoming the Ford F-75. Production of the Ford F-75 continued in Brazil until 1981.
In 1975, a significant shift occurred with the replacement of the standard 2.6L BF-161 engine model by a more streamlined 2.3L SOHC engine. The truck was made available in both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations. Post-acquisition, Ford's major alteration was the rebranding of the tailgate from Jeep to Ford, marking a notable transition in the truck's identity.
* The Engine *
Throughout its production, the vehicle offered a range of inline-six engine options. These included the BF-161 (2.6L Single Barrel Carb. 90hp.), the 2600 (2.6L Dual Barrel Carb. 130hp.), and the 3000 (3.0L Dual Carb. 140hp.). These engines represented evolutions of the F4-134 Hurricane, a powerplant utilized in both the Jeep CJ and the Willys Jeep Pickup.
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Notably, the BF-161 engine was entirely manufactured in Brazil, as indicated by the "B" in its name. The production plant commenced operations on March 7th, 1958, initially focusing on crafting components for the 1958 Willys Rural. This marks a significant chapter in the heritage of these iconic engines.
* F-Head Engine *
The letter F in the engine designation denotes a distinctive design featuring one set of valves on the top of the block, akin to a Flathead (L Head), and another set of valves in the head itself, resembling a modern OHV engine.
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Willys opted for this design as they were adapting it from an L head block. To accommodate the significantly taller head, they ingeniously reduced the size of the combustion chamber. This strategic adjustment not only accommodated the taller head but also resulted in an increased compression ratio, ultimately enhancing the engine's output.
Ford Willys F-75 1968
Pick up details
Overall Length: 482 cm
Axle Length: 300 cm
Height: 180 cm
Payload: 750kg
Overall weight w/o cargo: 1,551 kg
Fuel Consumption: 5 km/L avg.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 72L
Maximum Horse Power BF-161: 90HP
Optional 4x4 with High and Low
This car is currently located at our garage in Byron Bay and is available for inspection by appointment.