Early Ford GPW Wheel housing to outer side panel brace
WOA2326
Wheel housing to outer side panel reinforcement bracket
Early Ford GPW version
Reinforcement plate connecting the rear wheel housing to the outer side panel of the body. This type was introduced into factory production from February 1943 onwards and is specific to early Ford GPW body kits with Ford's own design.
|
Material Pressed steel |
Finish To be painted |
|
Mounting Bolted to wheel housing |
Period February 1943 - Sept. 1943 |
Features
- Reinforces the connection between wheel housing and rear side panel
- Designed for Ford-built bodies (December 1941 - September 1943)
- Introduced 8 February 1943 as production modification
- Provides additional structural support around wheel housing
- Suitable for early Ford GPW body with rectangular toolbox stamping
★ This reinforcement bracket was added to early Ford GPW body production in February 1943 and strengthens the vulnerable transition between wheel housing and outer side panel.
Application
For Ford GPW jeeps with early Ford-built body, manufactured between February 1943 and September 1943. After September 1943, Ford switched to ACM Type 1 bodies, followed by the composite body from January 1944 onwards.
Installation notes
Bolted between the rear wheel housing and outer panel. This reinforcement plate is designed to absorb forces from the spare wheel carrier and driving behaviour. Note: left and right may differ — check original position before mounting.
Compatibility
Only for early Ford GPW bodies. Not suitable for Willys MB or late composite bodies (ACM Type 2). Ford produced its own bodies until September 1943 with specific features such as rectangular toolbox recesses and ribs in the wheel housings.
Historical context
On 8 February 1943, this reinforcement plate was introduced into Ford GPW production in response to structural weaknesses around the wheel housing. It is a recognisable feature of mid-production Ford GPW jeeps from early 1943.
This description was generated automatically. Unsure about fitment? Contact us at info@willys.be.
This part is intended for the restoration of historic military vehicles. Fitting, aligning, deburring or reworking is part of that work and is inherent to the nature of these goods. Dimensional variation also exists between original vehicles.
Installation requires technical knowledge of the vehicle. Unsure whether this part suits your version? Ask us before purchase at info@willys.be.
This part fits:
| Model | Years |
|---|---|
| Military jeeps | |
| Ford GPW (early) | 1942 |
| Ford GPW | 1942, 1943, 1944, 1945 |