Hobby Master Archive

Hobby Master 1/48 Ground Power Series HG1612 US Willy’s Jeep “Follow Me” US Army Air Force, WWII

Wanting to replace their outdated light vehicles the U.S. Military received three tenders. Bantam Car Company was the initial winner but couldn’t meet demand so the job went to Willys-Overland Motors. Willys was to take the best design features of the three submitted tenders and build a standardized vehicle. Eventually in order to meet an even greater demand the Ford Motors Company was asked to build a similar vehicle. During World War II there was a total of 647,870 Jeeps produced by the three companies; Willys-Overland produced 362,841 of them.

“Follow Me” jeeps were used to help with control of ground traffic at airfields. If an aircraft landed at an unfamiliar airfield it would require guidance to the various runways, taxiways and parking areas. Sometimes local aircraft needed their services to reach the correct assigned location. Once the aircraft had slowed to a safe speed these brightly colored jeeps would drive in front with a large “Follow Me” sign attached to the rear and would proceed to the assigned spot for that aircraft.

Specifications for WWII Jeep Manufacturer - Willys-Overland Crew - 1 with up to 3 others Weight (gross) - 3,125 lb (1,417 kg)

Performance Engine - Carburetor, liquid cooled, “Go Devil” 4 cylinder (Willys L-head), 60 hp @ 4.000 rpm, 134 cu. In. (2.200 cm3) displacement Transmission - Warner T-84J / 3-speed synchro-mesh Transfer case - Dana Spicer 18 / 2-speed Gear shifter - floor mounted Suspension Front axle - beam-leaf Rear axle - beam-leaf Brakes - Hydraulic Front - drum Rear - drum Fuel Type - gasoline Capacity - 15 US gallons (56.78 liters) Range - 375 miles (600 km)

Electrical system - 6 volt, negative ground Tires - (4) + (1) spare / 6 X 16 (non-directional)

Ground clearance - 8.75 in (22.22 cm) Fording depth Standard - 18 in (45.72 cm / .4572 m) Maximum - 21 in (53.34 cm / .5334 m)

Dimensions Length - 132.75 in (3.371 m). Wheelbase - 80 in (2.032 m). Width - 62 in (1.5748 m). Height Top up - 69.75 in (1.77165 m). To top of steering wheel w/top down - 51.25 in (1.30175 m).

Authentic Detailing Pre-Painted by professionals Accurate paint colors Markings Tampo (pad) applied Fully Assembled True to Scale (1:48) Weathering and insignias Rubber wheels that roll Comes with a stretcher Windshield can pivot up and down Accessories like gas cans, shovels etc.