So.... even if it does run as is, imagine this thing with a junkyard 351w & standard power. it would probably just flip over - ya'll please tell me to stay away from this thing, bad decisions will be made. save me from me LOL
Those old mail jeeps were sold off during the end of the 70, beginning of the 80's for a larger van/jeep configuration that is still in use today. We used to have pizza delivery from several mom and pop pizza places that purchased them at government auctions for real cheap. I would put in for an title based on the fact it was on your property. Possession is 9/10ths of the law!
Trust me. . .there's a paper trail on these. The government doesn't abandon this sort of vehicle. Typical government auction surplus. Record the serial number and any info off the badge and go on your state DMV website and find the right form to inquire. They will pull it up under whoever purchased it. . .probably the guy who parked it there!
I rarely comment on videos, but I think this one is worth my 2 cents. When cars are restored like this, not only are you letting other people enjoy then while they're on the road, your preserving a small peice of American history. When vehicles just rot away, that history is being lost forever, so I would definitely want to see this back on the road where all these old cars belong.
I used to have a 1971 DJ5 nearly identical to this one. The AMC straight 6 engine makes it one of the most sought after models made. I very, very much regret selling mine. Hindsight is always 20/20... Yours is very much worth getting a title for.
When I was younger it wasn’t uncommon to see an old mail Jeep running around or for sale. I could be wrong but I think a majority of postal Jeeps were 2 wheel drive. I know every single one I have ever come across was 2 wheel drive. They were all right hand drive and I don’t think any had a removable top or folding windshield so they weren’t very desirable Jeep-wise. Those features are kinda the point of having a jeep. Despite that I have seen some really unique postal jeep builds from drag cars to rat rods to all out show vehicles. There was a one at SEMA a couple years ago that was bagged and laying frame that was bad ass. Fun fact: A lot of rural postal carriers use their personal vehicles for their mail route so for that very reason you can still order a new jeep with right hand drive. My mail lady doesn’t have a jeep but she does have some type of adapters on her car so she can drive from the passenger seat and easily reach the mailboxes.📫
In the mid 80"s I owned a 1973 Postal Jeep. Yours is right around that year model. I drove it as my daily driver for three or four years, so yes you can license it for civilian use. That old straight 6 is a workhorse. It is overpowered for the vehicle so it has never been overworked. The postal service takes very good care of their vehicles. The oil was changed regularly and the maintenance as well..If I had the money, I would offer to buy it from you. As a side note, my wife and two children drove it eight hundred miles on vacation to my hometown in Iowa from Illinois. That's right, I am an Iowa boy. Enjoy your channel. As for the engine being "bad". NO that is one tough engine.
I had one as well. My Mom was circulation manager for the local newspaper for many years and most of her route drivers used the DJ's. I can agree the engine just goes and goes, it's the same power plant as the Gremlin (had one of those too.) It's a hoot to drive, the only reason I got rid of mine was my wife got pregnant and only one of my seats was "officially" bolted down. Uncle Luke, if you're seeing this, if nothing else, it would make a quite serviceable farm truck, you wouldn't have to load you lap up with tools anyway.
For every vehicle there is a group of fanatics. I am one of the postal jeep fanatics, and I have been restoring mine, some videos of which are on my CZcams channel, while I’ve been watching all of your videos to teach me the things I don’t know. Do not throw out that gas tank! It is unavailable, and worth restoring. That’s about the only solid advice that I can give a guy as knowledgeable as you. There is a very active Facebook group where I have been getting a lot of valuable information. Very much looking forward to seeing you restore this and get it running. Well of course it will run, you’ve already figured that out. Good luck with it
I’d love to see you get that going. They are very practical on the farm. You said you needed a basket in the tractor. There is your basket and tractor together
I'd love to see this thing running. I agree that it was probably a deer blind. I'll bet someone drove it there long before deer season, left it so the deer could get used to it, and it made such a good blind that they just left it. (Lacquerred gas will hide a human's odor pretty well, I'd think.) Anyway, if you got it running, I think you would find it to be a useful farm vehicle.
Ran when parked, lol! Pretty sure the USPS auctioned all of those off when they switched to the vans maybe 30 years ago now so I don't see why you couldn't drive them on the road. At least give it a shot...they're rare as hen's teeth these days (at least up here in NY) and would definitely be a pretty unique thing to have
Yes, get it running and driving and on the road. It would be an interesting change. I'm 52 and old enough to remember seeing some of those jeeps as a kid when they were still in service with the post office.
You know, I was watching you drive the tractor back, and I could actually smell the thing running in my head, I've seen these run, smelled them, and love them
Excellent video Uncle Luke :) 1964 to 1974 be year those were made also my mailbox lady drive a 2002 Ford Ranger full frame with 3.0 litre or 3.9 litre V6 fuel injection motors , 4 speed Overdrive Automatic transmission with 377 rear end gears plus right hand drive also options has Air Conditioning, Heater , Cruise Control , Power Windows, Heat West Coast mirrors, Power seats , Power Brakes & Steering plus Tilt Steering wheel and Delay Wipers! Am/ Fm CD radio with 4 speakers, Daytime Running Lights , 4 way Hazzard, Whopping Lights, Reverse gear Beep Warning Device, 2 seater also 4500 pound weight vechile ! These vechile have 25 gallon fuel tank and fix up too also neat vechile too Luke :) !
thunderhead, these made excellent vehicles!!!! Ultimate 2wd offroader! These things will go anywhere!... if you can.. definatly fix it up.. get a title.. put a cool spay can paint job and drive it.. You wil not be disappointed!!!! Don't miss out on this experience!!!!
A DJ jeep. Awesome! I have a 1984 CJ-7 I got a year ago when I graduated high school. Rebuilt the 258 in it and new clutch. Done a lot of work I love old classics and old jeeps. Keep this one it’ll be awesome. Thanks for the cool video
My friend Kim in high school, way back in the '70s, drove one of these. Right hand drive and everything. Her dad bought it at auction and painted it white. Not sure how long she had it but a couple of years at least.
If you do want to build it, Luke, please consider running tall, narrow tires on it if you can. I really like the look of older 4x4s running tires like that. Also, as a bonus, tall skinny tires have a distinct advantage over wide ones in the snow. Loving your vids!
Drove those when I first hired on with Postal service. I dont have fond memories of them. No power brakes or steering, some of them would wear your knees out trying to stop them. Running all day would cause the floor to heat up to burn your hand hot. Was glad to see the LLV that replaced it! If your trying to get one to run be sure to check the cut off switch under the drivers seat that shut the thing off when you got out. Brought back some memories watching this!👍
Based on the grille and the engine, what you have there is a DJ-5B, C, D, or F, 1971-1978. If there’s a TF-727 transmission under it, it’s a 5F, the best and most bulletproof driveline of the whole run of these. The dash plate to the right of the steering wheel should tell you for sure. Engine is either an AMC 232 or a 258. I daily a 1978 DJ-5F. It’s a lot of fun.
#1 it is only illegal to shoot out of a vehicle while on a public road. #2 yes you can title ,and tag a mail jeep. I had one when I was living in Md. Since it was blue at some point I'd say you are very close to the right year on this one. Through the 60's ,and about the end of the 70's they was blue. Then they painted them white with the red ,and blue pinstripes starting around the early 80's. They are very fun to drive. I put an cheap radio in mine ,and the speakers I cut holes on each side of the dash ,and it being like a metal box made it act like a boom box. Sounded great!
You can definitely get it titled and use it. I had one back in the 80s here in Pa.when I was a kid in high school. I've been watching your channel since you and Kevin from Junkyard Digz got that old Ford pickup going that you found in the woods. I don't comment much but I am a big fan. Be safe and thanks for the video.
Let's keep with the cool little DJ-5. Yes they can and are privately owned after the USPS auctioned them off. The engine is a 4cyl version of the indestructible AMC 258. Would make a good hauler for around the old rancho. Perfect for that newspaper route to supplement your income (help pay for the grand estate).
My brother had one exactly like that in the late 80's, he drove it to school everyday. After school he used it to deliver pizza's for Pizza Hut. You had to keep it floored most of the time because they are pretty gutless, but it was great on gas mileage. We even took it out in the fields by our house and beat the heck out of it with all the trails, it was pretty tough. I think he eventually sold it to another kid at school and that kid drove it to school everyday for awhile to. You should definitely see if you can get it running and driving, it would make a great little farm vehicle to use on your property, and it has plenty of room to put all your tools and stuff in if you needed to drive around and fix things.
Yes you can legally title them and drive them once they are decommissioned. They used to sell them off once they upgraded. I know lots of people that have used them for news paper delivery. That would make an awesome farm jeep for hauling stuff around the property. Those old 4.2 liter six cylinders are amazing.
Hi Uncle Luke. I bought one of those Jeep’s in 1989 from the Post Office when they were switching over their fleet it cost 400.00. At the time couldn’t get used to right hand drive. Now though I drive a right hand drive XB Falcon Take care best to you Bill in Fort Wayne Indiana
Your content has the uncanny ability to stir up memories for me. I've told you in the past how my father has a 64 Galaxie 500 and my grandfather had an 8N (similar to your 9N). What's interesting with this USPS unit is that it looks similar to the USPS mail truck that my grandfather drove. (In addition to being an apple farmer - hence the 8N - he delivered mail in his community, drove school bus, worked at the airport - sort of a jack of all trades, really.). Interestingly, my grandpa also loved his 70s era Ford F-Series. I believe it had a 360, though. So, yes - I'd love to see you get this thing going for the memories. Plus, I think I'd like to see someone other than David Tracy drive a mail Jeep. They're interesting pieces of history in my opinion. This one is actually in significantly better shape than the rust bucket Tracy drove.
Ahh, an AMG Dispatcher! I know of two here in Ohio which were/are daily drivers; one belonged to a late friend of ours (R.I.P., Henry) in Cincinnati, a 1976 IIRC...and locally a gentleman who has a rental property business runs around town in his; it still has an amber flashing light on top...I recall these being used in the 1970s-80s in Seattle; before that the USPS was using Chevy Vegas (!!) for a short while (ca. 1972-73); I'm old enough to recall that the USPS vehicles were Cushman 3-wheel trucks!
My neighbor has one he uses as a daily driver in the summer months. Pretty neat little vehicles. Was always wondering, since they have a solid front axle, how difficult it would be to convert one to 4 wheel.
Not super difficult, but you’d have to convert it to a manual as part of the process. The automatic transmission in these is too long to sandwich a transfer case in there… the rear driveshaft would end up being about 6” long. But yes the front axle would be a bolt-in!
Agree with Dave lennie . The front drive is less an issue . Maybe the front leafs need more arc is all for spring under axle . But the tf727 with a t - case won’t work on a CJ5 platform DJ5 Jeep . Cross member placement needs swap I believe . But certainly doable . Yeah , short rear driveshaft is a big concern . I had to shorten a rear driveshaft to 12 5/8” center to center on my 1980 cj5 when I swapped in a 258 and T5 w/D300 . That was child’s play compared to this mail Jeep if the tf727 will be kept . Can’t swear the auto 727 will work out with 4wd . If used on the farm , swap in a T18 or the T98 ? Dana 300 t - case of 1980 with short tail or the Dana 20 , it’s a little shorter , I believe . If your doing one , pull the body off to make,your life easier . Postal bodies are sure to be heavy but crossmember swap work on a narrow track would suck with the body on . Haven’t done a DJ5 but been under my ‘73 CJ5 for a clutch replacement and it takes getting used to for lack of space . Watch your head ! Lots of metal to bang it on and all close by .
@@davelennie1591 Yes , that 2wd tf727 will have to go . Possibly a tf999 from a YJ wrangler might work if it measures right with its t - case . Maybe the front YJ driveshaft too will work if it measures up . Between the trans and t - case and both shafts , he has to take every measurement before hand . It’ll be fun for sure .
Thanks Luke for reminding that when a starter solenoid is dead , it would have to be bypassed across the big terminal lugs . But folks , be forewarned that’s heavy amps so a remote starter may burn up in your hand ! Not a fan of applying battery voltage or jump pack voltage directly , even though it works , to the starter lug . Yeah , I hate sparks . Guessing that DJ5 dispatcher Jeep is likely a mid 70’s judging by the ignition , that distributor . Not a fan of the mail Jeep but I read that the chassis is close to the CJ5 chassis except for crossmember configuration and front spring hangers ? Not sure . But the chassis and the , either 232 or 258 , if good and see if it’s got a Dana 44 in the rear . Motor didn’t immediately produce any rod knock so may have a chance . The 258 is fairly stout . It is somewhat desirable at least in parts . I respect that you don’t need another project but may be good to someone who wants one . There is some kind of following of the DJ5 but yes , CJ5 enthusiasts ( like me ) would be interested in the chassis , engine and rear axle . The wheel wells and rear floor may be good for CJ5 parts . Just saying . Just something to ponder . But would hate to see it wasted . I couldn’t take it off your hands , live too many miles from you . Wish I could . Hope you and Emily can possibly make money on a flip . Oh yes , hunting from a vehicle or from your house windows is illegal . I know it is in New York . I would think in your state it is illegal as well ? If it’s not too much trouble , talk it over with misses , maybe a revival could be in order ? Check out flipping it for cash before getting into it with your own cash first , as your well aware . Just you getting it started in the true spirit of thunderhead 289 fashion would be entertaining . I’m sure you got a starter solenoid relay lying around from a ford and no problem on getting fuel to the fuel pump from a can so I’m sure you can do it on the cheap ! As long as the stupid solid state whatever that ignition system was called isn’t a problem . Ah , just drop in a Chevy six cylinder HEI distributor . I heard they fit but check the gear tooth count and rotation direction and it’s depth to the cam gear . You know what to do uncle Luke , you got this , it’s well within your scope . You call it , hope to see it again for fun and profit .
New viewer, love the long-form videos and stuff. This was my first time seeing your horses and the equestrian in me was pleased. I find more reasons to be a fan with every passing video.
My dad works for USPS and when I was little, he used to own a blue 1983 Jeep mail truck. I wish that he kept it because I love old school cars and trucks.
Give my creation Liiiife! :D Should have used that sweet tractor to haul it up to the garage to work on it. Definitely a cool project. People use them for personal vehicles all the time. Would love one myself esp. with that lovely straight 6.
I got hired by the usps in 1986 and drove a jeep , just like this one , I do remember having the jeep , pretty much full of mail and I hit a pothole and that back door popped open and dumped about 3 trays of letters on the street . it was really good in the snow , much better than the llv .
I drove those beast in the mid 70's when began working for Canada Post here on Vancouver Island. Oh god my back remembers the ride. Then there was the wishful thinking that were the brakes. But yup, way more power than that little tin can ever needed. Great fun for doing donuts when it did snow.
Uncle Luke dont post videos much, when he does he knocks it out of the park. Hell of a difference with Luke and Mr Teng Tools, good luck at the new place.
Not only would I love to see you bring this back as a farmtruck (maybe even tag it and roadlegal?) but I would also love to see all the stuff you do around the property! I’m so happy you got to buy land, you worked for it super hard, so seeing you guys get forward with the place would make me happy and hopefully good content!
I still recall seeing mail Jeeps at the Little Neck, Queens post office in the 90s. Used to live in Douglaston. They replaced them with Ford Windstars.
Reminds me of the movie the postman! They still use one down by my wife's parents in Texas, kept it in running shape all these years and still used by their post office there. Get her running fun toy to have to putt around with
Hi Luke, my dad drove one of those daily during his career as a letter carrier. He told me they are miserable as road a vehicle, no insulation, short wheelbase and narrow track. They weren't made for highway speeds. They were made by AM General which was a separate business under the AMC umbrella until Chrysler took over. Originally they were blue with white roofs, then went to all white in probably the 1980s. Some had the six but I believe others got the GM 2.5 Iron Duke. They share very few parts with the CJ series; mostly the hood and fenders and the instruments. Everything else is oddball.
Yeah! Do it! Get that USPS truck going. FYI if it weren’t road legal, even the postal service wouldn’t be able to use them. They’re made as fleet vehicles under government contract so as long as you can find a VIN on it anywhere like a fender tag or behind a door or even under the seat there may be a build sheet. I had a friend who actually did use a retired USPS truck much like that one.
Yes you can drive it, we drove one around my teens… in I took my drivers Ed test in one… drove great, had good power.. you will love it… we still regret getting ridding of it…
So.... even if it does run as is, imagine this thing with a junkyard 351w & standard power.
it would probably just flip over - ya'll please tell me to stay away from this thing, bad decisions will be made.
save me from me LOL
Do it. No balls. 👀
Let me just get the supercharged 65 done first and probably make sure I can title it - watch it be stolen 😂
What diggs said.
Game all the way on
How about a supercharged 351 in this? That’s a proper hot rod assisted suicide
Get her going, it’s content and definitely could be a good farm vehicle
Or street ride like ours
This
For sure..can push show with a blade on it, beats being open to frozen winds like on a quad..
It's cute. Looks like an ideal farm truck and mobile horse feeder.
Those old mail jeeps were sold off during the end of the 70, beginning of the 80's for a larger van/jeep configuration that is still in use today. We used to have pizza delivery from several mom and pop pizza places that purchased them at government auctions for real cheap. I would put in for an title based on the fact it was on your property. Possession is 9/10ths of the law!
Trust me. . .there's a paper trail on these. The government doesn't abandon this sort of vehicle. Typical government auction surplus. Record the serial number and any info off the badge and go on your state DMV website and find the right form to inquire. They will pull it up under whoever purchased it. . .probably the guy who parked it there!
What they were replaced with had a 2.5L Chevy S-10 engine in them.
That Jeep sure looks familiar
Why don’t you guys race Jeeps
That would be fun Thunderhead and monster Rust race
Oh damn saw your Jeep too I like both
Jeep vs Jeep and I’ll put in my beetle 🪲
Both keeps look exactly the same
I rarely comment on videos, but I think this one is worth my 2 cents. When cars are restored like this, not only are you letting other people enjoy then while they're on the road, your preserving a small peice of American history. When vehicles just rot away, that history is being lost forever, so I would definitely want to see this back on the road where all these old cars belong.
When I was a kid in the 60s, some teenage neighbors had one they drove all the time. They painted US MALE on it. It was great!
Now that would be hate speech!🙃
When I was in high school in the late 80s, a guy in my class had one. I think he even delivered pizza in it lol
We were thinking about paint that on ours
Probably got great gas mileage.
thats so stupid: I LOVE IT. LOL!!!
It's definatly after 1973 because it says "unleaded fuel only" above the ignition switch
I used to have a 1971 DJ5 nearly identical to this one. The AMC straight 6 engine makes it one of the most sought after models made. I very, very much regret selling mine. Hindsight is always 20/20... Yours is very much worth getting a title for.
Defiantly need to get this running and driving especially after seeing what the current USPS fleet looks like.
current fleet is old, falling apart. with no new fleet comeing. drive them till they crap out.
Look at the mpg of the NEW ones I’m sure this jeep is just better all around.
Luke and I can race them lol
@@rawjaw1881 it sure is
@@ericd2791 new fleet are Mercedes Metris vans
would be cool to get it working, even with no title it would be a good go-kart sorta runabout vehicle on your property.
Depending on where he is, he should be able to get an abandoned title for it since it was left on his property.
When I was younger it wasn’t uncommon to see an old mail Jeep running around or for sale. I could be wrong but I think a majority of postal Jeeps were 2 wheel drive. I know every single one I have ever come across was 2 wheel drive. They were all right hand drive and I don’t think any had a removable top or folding windshield so they weren’t very desirable Jeep-wise. Those features are kinda the point of having a jeep. Despite that I have seen some really unique postal jeep builds from drag cars to rat rods to all out show vehicles. There was a one at SEMA a couple years ago that was bagged and laying frame that was bad ass.
Fun fact: A lot of rural postal carriers use their personal vehicles for their mail route so for that very reason you can still order a new jeep with right hand drive. My mail lady doesn’t have a jeep but she does have some type of adapters on her car so she can drive from the passenger seat and easily reach the mailboxes.📫
In the mid 80"s I owned a 1973 Postal Jeep. Yours is right around that year model. I drove it as my daily driver for three or four years, so yes you can license it for civilian use. That old straight 6 is a workhorse. It is overpowered for the vehicle so it has never been overworked. The postal service takes very good care of their vehicles. The oil was changed regularly and the maintenance as well..If I had the money, I would offer to buy it from you. As a side note, my wife and two children drove it eight hundred miles on vacation to my hometown in Iowa from Illinois. That's right, I am an Iowa boy. Enjoy your channel. As for the engine being "bad". NO that is one tough engine.
I had one as well. My Mom was circulation manager for the local newspaper for many years and most of her route drivers used the DJ's. I can agree the engine just goes and goes, it's the same power plant as the Gremlin (had one of those too.) It's a hoot to drive, the only reason I got rid of mine was my wife got pregnant and only one of my seats was "officially" bolted down. Uncle Luke, if you're seeing this, if nothing else, it would make a quite serviceable farm truck, you wouldn't have to load you lap up with tools anyway.
They had models that were 4 cylinder, too. That is the engine mine had in it.
I knew it wasnt no 60s model I remember those things in the 80s
I am proudly one of the three women happy to learn from Uncle Luke!
That's a pretty sweet find for just goofing around in the yard.
For every vehicle there is a group of fanatics. I am one of the postal jeep fanatics, and I have been restoring mine, some videos of which are on my CZcams channel, while I’ve been watching all of your videos to teach me the things I don’t know. Do not throw out that gas tank! It is unavailable, and worth restoring. That’s about the only solid advice that I can give a guy as knowledgeable as you. There is a very active Facebook group where I have been getting a lot of valuable information. Very much looking forward to seeing you restore this and get it running. Well of course it will run, you’ve already figured that out. Good luck with it
I’d love to see you get that going. They are very practical on the farm. You said you needed a basket in the tractor. There is your basket and tractor together
Since it was on your property when you bought it you should be able to file for a title with your state.
I'd love to see this thing running. I agree that it was probably a deer blind. I'll bet someone drove it there long before deer season, left it so the deer could get used to it, and it made such a good blind that they just left it. (Lacquerred gas will hide a human's odor pretty well, I'd think.) Anyway, if you got it running, I think you would find it to be a useful farm vehicle.
And just cut a piece of plexiglass for the back window.
It would be good to get it running as like a vehicle that can haul parts and stuff for various projects on the farm
Beautiful Horses, Cool Old Tractor, and a new project to play with. Life is good.
Ran when parked, lol!
Pretty sure the USPS auctioned all of those off when they switched to the vans maybe 30 years ago now so I don't see why you couldn't drive them on the road. At least give it a shot...they're rare as hen's teeth these days (at least up here in NY) and would definitely be a pretty unique thing to have
Try running the VIN.
There's one around here that I've seen on the road, it's a bit banana shaped as if someone jumped it. (ct)
All he would really have to do is remove or paint over any US Mail logos on it.
Make it live again!!! One of my buddies Daily drives one just like this so it is streat-able and they are getting super rare
You threw that peach and that horse looked at you like “we’re not dogs” 😆
Yes, get it running and driving and on the road. It would be an interesting change. I'm 52 and old enough to remember seeing some of those jeeps as a kid when they were still in service with the post office.
Know a guy that drove one of these to work for almost 40 years and it was running on 3.5 cylinders the last 15.
It would be awesome to see it cleaned up & running. It's an interesting find and backstory :)
You know, I was watching you drive the tractor back, and I could actually smell the thing running in my head, I've seen these run, smelled them, and love them
Excellent video Uncle Luke :) 1964 to 1974 be year those were made also my mailbox lady drive a 2002 Ford Ranger full frame with 3.0 litre or 3.9 litre V6 fuel injection motors , 4 speed Overdrive Automatic transmission with 377 rear end gears plus right hand drive also options has Air Conditioning, Heater , Cruise Control , Power Windows, Heat West Coast mirrors, Power seats , Power Brakes & Steering plus Tilt Steering wheel and Delay Wipers! Am/ Fm CD radio with 4 speakers, Daytime Running Lights , 4 way Hazzard, Whopping Lights, Reverse gear Beep Warning Device, 2 seater also 4500 pound weight vechile ! These vechile have 25 gallon fuel tank and fix up too also neat vechile too Luke :) !
This woman would love to see you get it running! My in-laws had one at the cabin! We loved it!
As a current mailman. I approve.
thunderhead, these made excellent vehicles!!!! Ultimate 2wd offroader! These things will go anywhere!... if you can.. definatly fix it up.. get a title.. put a cool spay can paint job and drive it.. You wil not be disappointed!!!! Don't miss out on this experience!!!!
A DJ jeep. Awesome! I have a 1984 CJ-7 I got a year ago when I graduated high school. Rebuilt the 258 in it and new clutch. Done a lot of work I love old classics and old jeeps. Keep this one it’ll be awesome. Thanks for the cool video
I remember my mail being delivered I. Those when I was a kid in the '80's!
My friend Kim in high school, way back in the '70s, drove one of these. Right hand drive and everything. Her dad bought it at auction and painted it white. Not sure how long she had it but a couple of years at least.
If you do want to build it, Luke, please consider running tall, narrow tires on it if you can. I really like the look of older 4x4s running tires like that. Also, as a bonus, tall skinny tires have a distinct advantage over wide ones in the snow. Loving your vids!
Drove those when I first hired on with Postal service. I dont have fond memories of them. No power brakes or steering, some of them would wear your knees out trying to stop them. Running all day would cause the floor to heat up to burn your hand hot. Was glad to see the LLV that replaced it! If your trying to get one to run be sure to check the cut off switch under the drivers seat that shut the thing off when you got out. Brought back some memories watching this!👍
This thing would be awesome carting stuff around the farm, please try and get it running and driving
What I am thing
I'll bet Dennis Collins from Coffee Walk would love this Jeep. He is quite the Jeep expert.
As a carrier this is way cooler than the LLVs used today and would love to see it driving again.
drove those jeeps and the llv , never got stuck in the jeep , but the llv was always getting stuck .
Yes definitely revive. Something different to do. I’m new to mechanical stuff and love watching you figure things out.
Those horses are beautiful man.
DEFINITELY WANT TO SEE MORE OF THE MAIL JEEP!
Based on the grille and the engine, what you have there is a DJ-5B, C, D, or F, 1971-1978. If there’s a TF-727 transmission under it, it’s a 5F, the best and most bulletproof driveline of the whole run of these. The dash plate to the right of the steering wheel should tell you for sure. Engine is either an AMC 232 or a 258. I daily a 1978 DJ-5F. It’s a lot of fun.
#1 it is only illegal to shoot out of a vehicle while on a public road. #2 yes you can title ,and tag a mail jeep. I had one when I was living in Md. Since it was blue at some point I'd say you are very close to the right year on this one. Through the 60's ,and about the end of the 70's they was blue. Then they painted them white with the red ,and blue pinstripes starting around the early 80's. They are very fun to drive. I put an cheap radio in mine ,and the speakers I cut holes on each side of the dash ,and it being like a metal box made it act like a boom box. Sounded great!
Keep it all original.
Fix it up.
Mail jeeps are cool.
I've been wanting another one of those for awhile.
You can definitely get it titled and use it. I had one back in the 80s here in Pa.when I was a kid in high school. I've been watching your channel since you and Kevin from Junkyard Digz got that old Ford pickup going that you found in the woods. I don't comment much but I am a big fan. Be safe and thanks for the video.
7:36 - 'maybe it was blue', OF COURSE it was blue. You and your blue vehicles Luke, too funny!
Omg 😂
Bring it back to life Luke. With the AM General, and Unleaded fuel sticker, mid '70s.
Are we going to get a Power Tour video? I’ve already seen the VGG one and Dylan McCool’s. Looking for one from you.
Give it some love Uncle Luke, and take us for a tour of the other junk on the property 😁
Yes would love to see all the "treasures" on the property
Let's keep with the cool little DJ-5. Yes they can and are privately owned after the USPS auctioned them off. The engine is a 4cyl version of the indestructible AMC 258. Would make a good hauler for around the old rancho. Perfect for that newspaper route to supplement your income (help pay for the grand estate).
No brass on the floor, likely not a deer blind. These delivered mail all through my childhood. I would love to see one running again!
This looks like a cool project. Do it, Luke! lol I believe David Tracy on Jalopnik had one and drove it through some states.
Did he get rid of it? I know the city was all over him to get rid of some projects.
@@jpmcclos He sold it and a few monts ago the guy who had it crashed and send it to the junkyard.
@@rsobe Good lord, what a shame. After all that work.
Oh wow a cool old mail Jeep!!
You only get 7 diseases just sitting in it once 😂
@@ThunderHead289 I had a swampvette like that one time lol
Your wife is a vet she can hook you up with some ivermectin and penicillin.
My brother had one exactly like that in the late 80's, he drove it to school everyday. After school he used it to deliver pizza's for Pizza Hut. You had to keep it floored most of the time because they are pretty gutless, but it was great on gas mileage. We even took it out in the fields by our house and beat the heck out of it with all the trails, it was pretty tough. I think he eventually sold it to another kid at school and that kid drove it to school everyday for awhile to. You should definitely see if you can get it running and driving, it would make a great little farm vehicle to use on your property, and it has plenty of room to put all your tools and stuff in if you needed to drive around and fix things.
Yes you can legally title them and drive them once they are decommissioned. They used to sell them off once they upgraded. I know lots of people that have used them for news paper delivery. That would make an awesome farm jeep for hauling stuff around the property. Those old 4.2 liter six cylinders are amazing.
As one of your 3 female viewers I'd like to see it running
That makes two of us
🤜💥🖐🤘I think it would be cool to get it back up and running even just to use it as a farm vehicle
Take old truck tool box, and make some scrap 3 point hitches. Carry all the gear and make a nice work bench if raised up. Thanks for the content 😊
Hi Uncle Luke. I bought one of those Jeep’s in 1989 from the Post Office when they were switching over their fleet it cost 400.00. At the time couldn’t get used to right hand drive. Now though I drive a right hand drive XB Falcon
Take care best to you
Bill in Fort Wayne Indiana
Needs an AMC 304 V8 or a Buick 231 V6
Man third postal Jeep I see today WHERE TF you guys getting these
Looks like a great farm vehicle. It deserves to be revived. The possibilities are endless!
Your content has the uncanny ability to stir up memories for me.
I've told you in the past how my father has a 64 Galaxie 500 and my grandfather had an 8N (similar to your 9N). What's interesting with this USPS unit is that it looks similar to the USPS mail truck that my grandfather drove. (In addition to being an apple farmer - hence the 8N - he delivered mail in his community, drove school bus, worked at the airport - sort of a jack of all trades, really.). Interestingly, my grandpa also loved his 70s era Ford F-Series. I believe it had a 360, though.
So, yes - I'd love to see you get this thing going for the memories. Plus, I think I'd like to see someone other than David Tracy drive a mail Jeep. They're interesting pieces of history in my opinion. This one is actually in significantly better shape than the rust bucket Tracy drove.
Those sparko 6x9's in the back are definitely from 1980
Get that going and use it for a farm vehicle along with the tractor.
Ahh, an AMG Dispatcher! I know of two here in Ohio which were/are daily drivers; one belonged to a late friend of ours (R.I.P., Henry) in Cincinnati, a 1976 IIRC...and locally a gentleman who has a rental property business runs around town in his; it still has an amber flashing light on top...I recall these being used in the 1970s-80s in Seattle; before that the USPS was using Chevy Vegas (!!) for a short while (ca. 1972-73); I'm old enough to recall that the USPS vehicles were Cushman 3-wheel trucks!
My father in-law has one of these been sitting for probably 20 years.. It be awesome to see you get yours going!! Use it to carry stuff around
My neighbor has one he uses as a daily driver in the summer months. Pretty neat little vehicles. Was always wondering, since they have a solid front axle, how difficult it would be to convert one to 4 wheel.
Not super difficult, but you’d have to convert it to a manual as part of the process. The automatic transmission in these is too long to sandwich a transfer case in there… the rear driveshaft would end up being about 6” long. But yes the front axle would be a bolt-in!
Agree with Dave lennie . The front drive is less an issue . Maybe the front leafs need more arc is all for spring under axle . But the tf727 with a t - case won’t work on a CJ5 platform DJ5 Jeep . Cross member placement needs swap I believe . But certainly doable . Yeah , short rear driveshaft is a big concern . I had to shorten a rear driveshaft to 12 5/8” center to center on my 1980 cj5 when I swapped in a 258 and T5 w/D300 . That was child’s play compared to this mail Jeep if the tf727 will be kept . Can’t swear the auto 727 will work out with 4wd . If used on the farm , swap in a T18 or the T98 ? Dana 300 t - case of 1980 with short tail or the Dana 20 , it’s a little shorter , I believe . If your doing one , pull the body off to make,your life easier . Postal bodies are sure to be heavy but crossmember swap work on a narrow track would suck with the body on . Haven’t done a DJ5 but been under my ‘73 CJ5 for a clutch replacement and it takes getting used to for lack of space . Watch your head ! Lots of metal to bang it on and all close by .
@@davelennie1591
Yes , that 2wd tf727 will have to go . Possibly a tf999 from a YJ wrangler might work if it measures right with its t - case . Maybe the front YJ driveshaft too will work if it measures up . Between the trans and t - case and both shafts , he has to take every measurement before hand . It’ll be fun for sure .
Its absolutely worth getting it running and driving if possible. That patina is awesome as well.
Thanks Luke for reminding that when a starter solenoid is dead , it would have to be bypassed across the big terminal lugs . But folks , be forewarned that’s heavy amps so a remote starter may burn up in your hand ! Not a fan of applying battery voltage or jump pack voltage directly , even though it works , to the starter lug . Yeah , I hate sparks . Guessing that DJ5 dispatcher Jeep is likely a mid 70’s judging by the ignition , that distributor . Not a fan of the mail Jeep but I read that the chassis is close to the CJ5 chassis except for crossmember configuration and front spring hangers ? Not sure . But the chassis and the , either 232 or 258 , if good and see if it’s got a Dana 44 in the rear . Motor didn’t immediately produce any rod knock so may have a chance . The 258 is fairly stout . It is somewhat desirable at least in parts . I respect that you don’t need another project but may be good to someone who wants one . There is some kind of following of the DJ5 but yes , CJ5 enthusiasts ( like me ) would be interested in the chassis , engine and rear axle . The wheel wells and rear floor may be good for CJ5 parts . Just saying . Just something to ponder . But would hate to see it wasted . I couldn’t take it off your hands , live too many miles from you . Wish I could . Hope you and Emily can possibly make money on a flip . Oh yes , hunting from a vehicle or from your house windows is illegal . I know it is in New York . I would think in your state it is illegal as well ? If it’s not too much trouble , talk it over with misses , maybe a revival could be in order ? Check out flipping it for cash before getting into it with your own cash first , as your well aware . Just you getting it started in the true spirit of thunderhead 289 fashion would be entertaining . I’m sure you got a starter solenoid relay lying around from a ford and no problem on getting fuel to the fuel pump from a can so I’m sure you can do it on the cheap ! As long as the stupid solid state whatever that ignition system was called isn’t a problem . Ah , just drop in a Chevy six cylinder HEI distributor . I heard they fit but check the gear tooth count and rotation direction and it’s depth to the cam gear . You know what to do uncle Luke , you got this , it’s well within your scope . You call it , hope to see it again for fun and profit .
New viewer, love the long-form videos and stuff. This was my first time seeing your horses and the equestrian in me was pleased. I find more reasons to be a fan with every passing video.
I dig the old school jeeps like these. That thing would be cool just as a property driving rig. Let alone as a rustore. It’s pretty vintage.
My dad works for USPS and when I was little, he used to own a blue 1983 Jeep mail truck. I wish that he kept it because I love old school cars and trucks.
Yes, get it running 🏃♀️ 🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️I would love to see it run. I always wanted one and still do especially if it’s a 4x4.
Give my creation Liiiife! :D Should have used that sweet tractor to haul it up to the garage to work on it. Definitely a cool project. People use them for personal vehicles all the time. Would love one myself esp. with that lovely straight 6.
I got hired by the usps in 1986 and drove a jeep , just like this one , I do remember having the jeep , pretty much full of mail and I hit a pothole and that back door popped open and dumped about 3 trays of letters on the street . it was really good in the snow , much better than the llv .
Finally an American car that has a proper access panel inside the vehicle to access The top of the gas tank.
This would be pretty damn cool to see come back alive again, they are pretty rare to see out and about anymore
I drove those beast in the mid 70's when began working for Canada Post here on Vancouver Island. Oh god my back remembers the ride. Then there was the wishful thinking that were the brakes. But yup, way more power than that little tin can ever needed. Great fun for doing donuts when it did snow.
Uncle Luke dont post videos much, when he does he knocks it out of the park. Hell of a difference with Luke and Mr Teng Tools, good luck at the new place.
@16:33 "Don't threaten me with a good time." I am putting that on my list of quotes. I literally chortled.
As as old diesel tech, retired x3, I love it when kids mess with stuff that was made before they were born!
Well, I’m the most well known carb tuner on CZcamsr, so welcome to Thunderhead289 lol
Not only would I love to see you bring this back as a farmtruck (maybe even tag it and roadlegal?) but I would also love to see all the stuff you do around the property!
I’m so happy you got to buy land, you worked for it super hard, so seeing you guys get forward with the place would make me happy and hopefully good content!
Cool bottle opener ring!
I've had piles of those things! LOL
This lil Jeep has a decent value, if it's running. :D
Thanx Luke!
I still recall seeing mail Jeeps at the Little Neck, Queens post office in the 90s. Used to live in Douglaston. They replaced them with Ford Windstars.
Reminds me of the movie the postman! They still use one down by my wife's parents in Texas, kept it in running shape all these years and still used by their post office there. Get her running fun toy to have to putt around with
Good thinking ahead Luke if the mail truck don't run you can tow it with the tractor LOL @ThunderHead289
Saw one driving around Plattsmouth Nebraska. Young kids just enjoying the unique ride. Looked fun.
Definitely should get it running. Love to see a video on you saving it driving it out of it's grave.
Go for it, it’s yours now!!! Get that thing up and running, abs fun with it!
LOL I drove one of those from 1983 to 2005. Good luck finding any replacement parts. And yes the earliest ones were painted blue.
Yes, more of this please!!! Very interesting with such a unique vehicle!
Hi Luke, my dad drove one of those daily during his career as a letter carrier. He told me they are miserable as road a vehicle, no insulation, short wheelbase and narrow track. They weren't made for highway speeds. They were made by AM General which was a separate business under the AMC umbrella until Chrysler took over. Originally they were blue with white roofs, then went to all white in probably the 1980s. Some had the six but I believe others got the GM 2.5 Iron Duke. They share very few parts with the CJ series; mostly the hood and fenders and the instruments. Everything else is oddball.
Forgot to mention...I think the VIN and production date are on that yellow dash sticker.
Love to see another video on this AMC Jeep Mail Carrier!! Very intrigued by it. Neat find, Luke!!
Yeah! Do it! Get that USPS truck going. FYI if it weren’t road legal, even the postal service wouldn’t be able to use them. They’re made as fleet vehicles under government contract so as long as you can find a VIN on it anywhere like a fender tag or behind a door or even under the seat there may be a build sheet. I had a friend who actually did use a retired USPS truck much like that one.
I doubt anyone else wants it so use it for sure. Lovely digs man.
Yes you can drive it, we drove one around my teens… in I took my drivers Ed test in one… drove great, had good power.. you will love it… we still regret getting ridding of it…
Its sunday morning at 6.28 thankyou very much for starting my morning like this Luke awesome video
Heck yeah get it running and driving! I bet you would get a lot of folks attention driving that around town.