1978/79 Jeep (AMC) DJ5-F ‘Dispatcher’. Registration Number:...

Estimate

£4,000 - £7,000

1978/79 Jeep (AMC) DJ5-F ‘Dispatcher’.

Registration Number: YEG 52T
Chassis Number: 0000460
Recorded Mileage: TBA

- Rare RHD/Perkins diesel variant
- Subject of older restoration

The DJ-5 models are well known as the United States Post Office delivery vehicle. They were basically rudimentary vehicles for local mail carrier needs with an automatic Torqueflite transmission, an enclosed metal cabin with sliding doors, a sorting table that carriers used to help process mail along the route, and a right-hand drive for quickly reaching mailboxes without leaving the vehicle's seat. They were also used by the military. 6000 of this model were built in 1977-78 and came with an AMC straight six 232 or 258 cu in engine married to a Torqueflite 727 three speed automatic gear box. 

This example was apparently No 460 off the production line, we understand one of two sent to Perkins Diesel in Peterborough to trial a Perkins 4.165 (2700cc) engine mated to the three speed Torqueflite gearbox (hence the Perkins radiator badge). The conversion was subsequently deemed uneconomical, and the other was apparently crushed after its return to the USA, making the example you see here unique. YEG 52T was used as a runabout in the Perkins yard, to be parked up before a ground-up restored in around 2008, at a cost apparently in the region of £8,000 in parts, many imported from the USA. Previously finished in blue when restored, the current owner repainted the Jeep in NATO green to emulate an American ‘Military Base’ vehicle. 

We understand YEG 50T runs well, driving requires a little concentration due to its lack of self-centring steering (as standard it must be said!). In terms of minor improvements, the fuel gauge can be erratic, the headlights do not work on main beam, the CB radio and search light are not currently connected, the fuel cap seal is not completely ‘water’ tight and so could be replaced, and there is a little bubbling around the bottom front window seal. The AMC comes with some extra military accessories, and a very comprehensive history file including restoration photographs, receipts, and correspondence.

A fun and unusual alternative to a Land-Rover or regular Jeep, this AMC is well worth a closer look.