The Jeep In Every Possible

I wouldn't call this most comprehensive book on the Jeep but this is a very well illustrated one on the restoration of one of World War II's icons of transport. The story line is based from a French restoration of one these Jeeps from the front end engine and transmission to the rear end. The engine rebuild is extensive and detailed. There is a plethora of color and black/white photos that illustrate what the French and English translations are telling you about. There is a lot of detail given in a logic order as you go through an actual restoration of a Jeep. It doesn't appear to be a complete one as you stop short of the final body, paint and complete assembly. Along the way you are given interesting facts about the Jeep and it history. I am impressed with the level of detail particularly of the rebuilding of the 4 cylinder engine. The only thing that is lacking is more detail on the interior of this vehicle but then again it was a simple one with no much interior to begin with.

One chapter of interest is how one man made a 6 X 6 Jeep. The end result is very stylish and unique vehicle that he takes on expedition in the North African desert with other Jeep enthusiasts. You will get to see other restored jeeps that join him in the desert with their accounts of travel along the way. This is quite a lengthy chapter that is somewhat boring as it loses the theme of the book to some extent. In the back of the book are some examples of restored Jeeps. One of interest was manufactured by Hotchkiss - Willys.

Conclusion

I am not an expert on the venerable Jeep but found this to be a pleasant surprise. It was interesting read from a Frenchman's perspective. Some of the English translations are suspect but remain very readable. I would like to thank Casemate for the review book.