Willys Jeep Truck Refresh

[TX_Jeep]

This is a truck that I started building in 2013. Its been mostly unchanged other than a powerplant swap to a 5.3L and a wheel/tire change over the years. Once it was mechanically complete, I started street driving it and did some mild wheeling/camping. Paint, interior, sound system, and other items not critical to driving were not done. I truly enjoy cruising in this thing. Fast forward to now and my project list has cleared up enough to focus on it again and finish it out. Upgrades outside of the initial vision/budget from years ago are certainly possible.

Basic Specs:
1948 Willys Jeep Truck Cab
Front fenders/grill are various years wagons/trucks
Bed is a modified M101 military trailer
Stock 5.3L LS running on Terminator X
700r4
D300 - 4:1 with 32 spline outputs
CUCV 1 - tons, 4.56 gears
37's
Leaf Springs
2" x 4" tube for the frame

This thing was initially built on a very small budget and over time. Parts were gathered when I could find deals over the years and stockpiled. I reused parts/pieces I had laying around or that were given to me. All that to say that it really doesn't "need" anything, but I'm sure some areas could be address to improve reliability, fit, function, etc. In no particular order, here is a list of things that I know I want to do.

Upgrade/Update/Finish List:
Patina Paint Job
Fix 700R4 leak
Paint chassis/axles
Remove and replace wiring connectors with Deutsch
Electric Fan upgrade
Paint/upgrade wheels
rebuild / re-seal hydroboost
Wire in NSS and reverse lights
Sound system
Interior Sound Deadening, upholstery, insulation, weatherstripping
Lizard skin on underside of cab
redo twin stick shifters
Transmission tunnel cover
rear axle shaft seals
A/C and heat
various body work prior to paint

Suspension:
This is an area I'd solicit some feedback. I have 4 - 14" King coilovers that could be used to link the truck. This would obviously take additional fabrication time but could improve the ride quality for the long run. On road manners at highway speeds would be the priority over offroad performance. The leaf springs really don't ride that bad IMO. An upgrade to the current shocks may improve it further. Custom Deaver/Alcan springs for improved ride/function are a consideration as well.

Other ideas on the truck? What would you do?

Pictures for the window lickers:

 

[csutton7]

Nice truck. Your list looks pretty good, but a roll cage would be one I would add.

 

[Hooligan]

New seat and drive it!

 

[TX_Jeep]

Nice truck. Your list looks pretty good, but a roll cage would be one I would add.

I don't disagree. It's definitely crossed my mind. It usually gets pushed down on the priority list because I have a dedicated crawler for harder trails. Hate to need it and not have it though... I think a basic 4 point that doesn't get int the way would be ideal

 

[TX_Jeep]

New seat and drive it!

Yes! I have a new seat cover that is brown/tan vinyl that looks like distressed leather. It's been in a box for years. It will be part of the upholstery work. I struggle with doing any of it because I enjoy driving it. Minimizing downtime is a goal.