M606
The Willys M606 is a militarized version of the civilian CJ-3B model, produced primarily for export between 1953 and 1968. Equipped with a 2.2-liter F-Head Hurricane engine producing 72 horsepower, it features a raised hood, reinforced tires and springs, and military equipment such as blackout lamps and a towing pintle. While a few units were used by the U.S. military, the majority of M606s were exported to various countries. (military-vehicle.org)
Variants by year
1953
Model summary
Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.
Model introduction
The Willys M606 is a militarized version of the civilian CJ-3B model, produced primarily for export between 1953 and 1968. Equipped with a 2.2-liter F-Head Hurricane engine producing 72 horsepower, it features a raised hood, reinforced tires and springs, and military equipment such as blackout lamps and a towing pintle. While a few units were used by the U.S. military, the majority of M606s were exported to various countries. (military-vehicle.org)
History
After World War II, Willys sought to adapt its civilian models to military needs. In 1953, the CJ-3B model was introduced, offering a more powerful engine and a raised hood to accommodate the 2.2-liter F-Head Hurricane engine. The M606 was derived from this model, incorporating military features such as reinforced tires and springs, a towing pintle, and blackout lamps. While a few units were used by the U.S. military, the majority of M606s were exported to countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, the Philippines, France, India, Italy, Japan, South Korea, South Africa, Colombia, Mexico, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, and Venezuela. (armedconflicts.com)
Generations
The Willys M606 is part of the military Jeep lineage, succeeding the M38 (MC) model produced from 1950 to 1952. The M606 was produced from 1953 to 1968, with a total production of approximately 155,494 units, including both civilian and military versions. After 1968, the model was replaced by the M606A2 and M606A3, which were produced similarly for friendly foreign governments. (armedconflicts.com)
Key differences
Compared to the civilian CJ-3B model, the M606 features specific military characteristics: - **Raised hood**: necessary to accommodate the 2.2-liter F-Head Hurricane engine. - **Reinforced tires and springs**: for improved off-road capability and increased payload. - **Towing pintle and blackout lamps**: for specific military operations. - **6-volt electrical system**: as opposed to the standard 24-volt system in other military vehicles of the era. These modifications enabled the M606 to meet military requirements while retaining the performance characteristics of the civilian model. (military-vehicle.org)
Photo recognition
To identify a Willys M606, look for the following features: - **Raised hood**: indicating the presence of the F-Head Hurricane engine. - **Reinforced tires and springs**: for improved off-road capability. - **Towing pintle and blackout lamps**: specific to military vehicles. - **6-volt electrical system**: distinct from other military vehicles of the era. These distinctive elements help differentiate the M606 from other Jeep models. (military-vehicle.org)
Important versions
The M606 was produced in several versions, primarily for export. While a few units were used by the U.S. military, the majority of M606s were exported to various countries. Specific versions may vary based on military equipment added according to the needs of importing countries. (armedconflicts.com)
References
- Military Vehicle for Charity Inc - Willys M606Military Vehicle for Charity Inc
- https://www.ewillys.com/category/m606/ewillys.com
- https://www.armedconflicts.com/M606-Willys-CJ-3B-t94555armedconflicts.com
- https://www.valka.cz/M606-Willys-CJ-3B-t94555valka.cz
Frequently asked questions
- What years was the Willys M606 produced?
- ScanRacer's referenced versions cover 1953.