$45K for a restored GPW?

[w30bob]

Hi Guys,

I don't know much about WW2 Jeeps......but do they really sell for $45,000 in nicely restored condition?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1943-For ... 89&vxp=mtr

regards,
bob

[Cal_Gary]

That's extremely over priced, and overbid, and I am highly suspicious. Even with matching numbers the $45K bid is exorbitant. The seller is also luring bidders off the eBay site before they bid. I'm surprised nobody's reported this listing to eBay to be investigated.
Gary

[vinnytruck]

Good Morning Guys, My question is...why wasnt our "M" seat covers made like that!!! But all and all I think it is over priced also. vinnytruck

[MSeriesRebuild]

Fellows, you need to catch up. WWII equipment in good shape brings a high $$$; plus the FORD GPW model was not produced in nearly the numbers as was the Willys MB; thus a good condition GPW is in demand and very valuable.

I know the actual meaning of "restored" has been discussed here many times. Some call restored a rattle can paint job on a truck that just had an oil change last year; while I call a restored vehicle one that has been totally rebuilt from front to rear the best it can be. This would include all mechanicals, electrical, and a perfect body and interior with a pristine paint job. That can be built back to original or with upgrades. A Ford GPW that has been restored in accordance with my definition of "restored" is a rare find and is a very valuable piece to the right buyer. I didn't even see photos of the Jeep mentioned here as posted on eBay, so I have no opinion of how good or not so good the one in question may have been. In fact photos can be and many times are taken so that the best points stand out, while other areas are hidden from view; hence my philosophy, "if you can't inspect, don't write a check."

I can tell you this without question; a GPW done right will certainly bring north of $45K from the right buyer, thus if this one was a good specimen, I'd have to say it was most certainly fairly priced to catch the eye of a serious buyer. Remember this; serious seller's who know what they have will always price their goods to catch the eye of a serious buyer. Don't misunderstand me, I'm not saying that some don't try to stick a high price tag on equipment that doesn't make the cut, it happens all the time. I've seen people outrageously over pay for substandard equipment. It is imperative to check out seller's and inspect what they offer closely so you don't get burned. While some are; I'm not saying all sellers are trying to get over on an unsuspecting buyer. There are those who think because they have a certain piece to offer, it is valuable regardless of the condition. In some cases those folks only offer junk that may only be fit for a parts truck if even that. Both buyer's and seller's need to be very serious about doing their homework before getting in too deep. The best advice I could offer to a seller; represent what you are offering as accurately as possible. If you are unsure, tell it like it is; a serious buyer will know and appreciate your honesty. The piece may bring more than you ever thought it would as a result of the way you honestly represent it. My advice to a buyer is to know the vehicle you seek to buy. Be able to recognize issues when you inspect a potential purchase. Make your offering based on what you KNOW. If you are not qualified, get someone who is. Don't go in thinking well how much can it really cost in time and $$ to fix up this old truck; you may be surprised at what it cost to build a decent truck, and most likely you will be disappointed before you get to where you hoped to be.

[w30bob]

Hi Charles,

I agree with everything you say, and the reason for this post in the first place was my ignorance regarding the value of properly restored MVs. For me the term "restored" means only one thing, which is what you describe. 99.9% of automobiles and MVs (for that matter) won't meet my definition of "restored". To me restored is like "pregnant". It either is or isn't. No partial pregnancies or restorations in my book.

In regards to this GPW I didn't know how rare it was, or that they brought that kind of money....today or any day. Being new to the MV arena I mistakenly thought that restoring MVs was cheaper than automobiles due to the availability of NOS parts and the simplicity of the vehicles themselves. But I guess if a nicely restored Sherman goes for half a million plus.....$45K for a Jeep isn't out of line. I'm learning new stuff every day in this hobby....please keep sharing.....and thanks for your reply.

regards,
bob

[MSeriesRebuild]

In my mind, NOS parts mean little. Hard items (fenders, doors, etc.) that generally don't spoil or deteriorate can be a great find, but if you are looking to do a first class job overall, NOS stuff will in large part certainly not make it the best it can be.

Depends on the individual, some folks still melt at the mention of "NOS", even if it's falling apart in the box. Personally if I were looking at 2 vehicles, one built by a reputable builder who used all NOS components, and another built by the same builder, but with premium quality current production components. I would expect the same quality of workmanship in either vehicle, but the one built from good quality current production components will certainly be the best vehicle.

[Cal_Gary]

In this case, shill bidding was involved, driving up the bid with a buddy then withdrawing bids. Perhaps I feel 45K is overpriced because I can't afford it. Good info Charles, thanks!
Gary

[w30bob]

Hi Charles,

I again agree with you......NOS parts that are in less than spectacular condition aren't of much value. Like the old rubber stuff, wiring, etc. Nice if you want to collect NOS parts to put on a shelf, but not worth using in a true restoration. Now if I can just find a source for original 1952 air for my tires.......

regards,
bob

[MSeriesRebuild]

Hi Charles,

I again agree with you......NOS parts that are in less than spectacular condition aren't of much value. Like the old rubber stuff, wiring, etc. Nice if you want to collect NOS parts to put on a shelf, but not worth using in a true restoration. Now if I can just find a source for original 1952 air for my tires.......

regards,
bob

Been there, done that. I've actually had people suggest that the air in the tires was likely original.

[Tim Powell]

Charles & Crew.
I know I should keep my mouth shut but I cannot.
Please use extreme caution around any person suggesting his or her tire air is original as their own personnel air might be super heated!

[MSeriesRebuild]

Charles & Crew.
I know I should keep my mouth shut but I cannot.
Please use extreme caution around any person suggesting his or her tire air is original as their own personnel air might be super heated!

One never knows what to expect might roll or be dragged in on any given day.

[Tim Powell]

I forgot to add the only exception to my statement of "hot air" would be truckdrivers!