1962 Jeep Willys CJ-5 — factory configuration and standard features

The 1962 Willys CJ-5 was built as a compact, utilitarian off-road vehicle with a simple, rugged design. Below is a summary of the factory default features and equipment as delivered from the factory.

Powertrain and drivetrain
- Engine: Standard four-cylinder “Hurricane” F-134 overhead-valve/flathead hybrid (F-head) design. The powerplant was tuned for low-end torque and durability suitable for agricultural and off-road use.
- Transmission: Three-speed manual transmission as standard, with conventional manual clutch operation.
- Transfer case/4WD: Two-range transfer case providing high and low gearing and manual engagement of four-wheel drive. 4WD was engaged manually; front axle engagement was by manual hubs on most factory configurations.
- Driveline layout: Rear-wheel drive with selectable four-wheel drive; power delivered through conventional driveshafts to solid front and rear axles.

Chassis, suspension and steering
- Frame: Ladder-type steel frame designed for durability and ease of repair.
- Suspension: Solid live axles front and rear mounted on multi-leaf springs. Suspension tuning focused on load-carrying and off-road traction rather than ride refinement.
- Steering: Manual steering using a conventional steering box (no factory power steering on standard models).

Brakes and wheels
- Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels (factory standard), with mechanical parking brake.
- Wheels/tires: Steel wheels with bias-ply truck/utility tires sized for the era (factory fitment typically 16-inch wheels). Full-size spare mounted externally (usually at the rear or on a rear carrier).

Body and exterior
- Body style: Two-door, open-top compact utility body with low-profile hood and rounded fenders. Body panels were steel with simple, flat surfaces for ease of repair.
- Windshield: Fold-down flat windshield was a standard feature, allowing open-air use and easier transport.
- Top options: Factory offered a removable soft top and side curtains; hardtops were available as dealer or factory options on some orders.
- Lighting: 7-inch round sealed-beam headlamps and standard incandescent taillamps and signal/parking lights consistent with period equipment.
- Exterior hardware: Tow hooks and simple bumpers; many vehicles left utilitarian mounting points for jerry cans, spare tires, and accessories.

Interior and ergonomics
- Seating: Two low-back bucket seats covered in durable vinyl were standard. The interior was sparse and functional with limited padding or insulation.
- Cargo area: Small rear cargo area behind the seats suitable for gear and tools; minimal interior storage compartments.
- Instrumentation: Basic instrument cluster with speedometer and essential gauges for oil pressure, engine temperature and charging/ammeter. Controls were straightforward and clearly laid out for driver access.
- Heating/ventilation: Basic heater unit was available; ventilation was largely open-air or through removable top/curtains.

Electrical and accessories
- Electrical system: 12-volt electrical system typical for the period, powering ignition, lighting and accessories.
- Accessories: Factory options and dealer-installed items commonly included a heater, radio, blackout or military lighting packages (on specialized units), mirrors, towing hardware, and different top configurations.

Construction and utility
- Build emphasis: Simplicity and serviceability — bolt-on sheet metal, mechanical controls, and widely available replacement parts.
- Intended use: Built for agriculture, recreation and light commercial use with an emphasis on off-road capability, durability and easy maintenance.

Safety and comfort
- Safety equipment: Minimal by modern standards — no airbags, limited crash protection, and simple lap belts were typical when fitted. Comfort amenities were basic; insulation and noise suppression were minimal.

Overall, the 1962 Willys CJ-5 was delivered as a straightf