Enter the Waggy. I immediately recognized how special this Wagoneer was. It wasn't just missing the woodgrain, it was missing almost all of the things that make a Wagoneer an "upscale" off-roader. Manual everything except the steering and transmission. Very little chrome. Turns out it was once a vehicle for the Army Corps of Engineers, and still has the nameplates to prove it. That cool heritage aside, it has already been very well loved by somebody. I haven't gone through it with a fine-tooth comb yet, so I don't have all of the details, but here is what I know it has so far:
- Lift of undetermined height
- Dana 44 front and Dana 60 rear with ARB air lockers
- Dual fuel tanks
- Atlas II transfer case
- GM TH700R4 trans
- Chevy 305 V8 (dead)
- Tired BFG 33x10.50 AT/KOs on what appear to be at least Jeep-style 15" rims
- Unknown gear ratios
- Vinyl seats and floors
First thing on the to-do list is addressing the engine. I have sourced a 6.0L LQ9 Gen III LS (345 hp, 380 ft./lbs stock) out of a (running) 2005 Cadillac Escalade complete with wiring harness, ECU, and all accessories, so that will be a fun chore. Haven't decided how I'm going to deal with dual tanks and new fuel pump(s) for fuel injection yet, but I think that the far tougher nut to crack will be that I'm in California, so everything has to be CARB-approved by an emissions referee. I don't have a vehicle large enough to tow this to where the fun is, and I'd really like to have it available for any heavy hauling duties, so getting it road-legal will be important.
Second will be rust. The quarters are actually in beautiful condition, but the lower A-pillars and drip rails are cancer-ridden from many years stored outside, probably in the snow.
I am happy to have a new challenge, and welcome to visitors and advice.
Thanks!
-Randy
San Diego, CA
https://photos.app.goo.gl/29PTwfeTZ38j92YB8