Soldier On Willy’s Wagon Restoration Project

In early 2024, Modern Classic Cars Foundation (MCCF) was generously gifted an original WWII Willys Wagon Jeep as a restoration project for its apprentices. Recognising the historic and symbolic value of the vehicle, MCCF formed a meaningful partnership with Soldier On, a leading Australian veteran support organisation.

This vehicle will undergo a full nut-and-bolt restoration, completed by MCCF’s apprentices under the guidance of experienced tradespeople. Upon completion, the restored Willys Wagon will be donated to Soldier On and auctioned at their 2026 Gala Dinner, with proceeds going directly to support veterans and their families.

WELCOMING THE WILLY’S WAGON TO THE WORKSHOP

July 2025

The Willy’s Wagon was welcomed to it’s temporary new home (our workshop) this July. It was unloaded and carefully inspected by our team of apprentices. 

The gifted vehicle had been long sitting in a garage up on the North Coast of NSW with it’s existing parts including rolling chassis, engine, gearbox, bonnet, front guards, windscreen frame and seat frames. 

“Before” photos were taken to capture the start of it’s restoration process prior to disassembly. 

DISASSEMBLY

AUGUST 2025

Before any good restoration can start coming together, it must first come apart. Our apprentices were tasked with disassembling the Willy’s Wagon, breaking the vehicle down completely.

The body first came off, followed by the interior steering column and seats then, the diffs leaving a bar chassis. Parts were catalogued and detailed photos taken for future reference when reassembling the vehicle – an important step in any restoration process. 

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