1942 Ford GTB 'Burma Jeep'

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This Ford GTB, also known as the ‘Burma Jeep,’ is a rare and unique vehicle. Its distinctive low silhouette and the unusual placement of the passenger seat are iconic features of the GTB, making it truly stand out from the crowd. Originally used by the U.S. Navy during the war, its blue-gray appearance reflects its military heritage. Whether with the top up or top down, this GTB is always a head-turner at events, especially because so few of them remain today.

Location
Nederweert, The Netherlands
Year of construction
27-10-1942
Country of origin
United States of America
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Type
1 1/2-ton (L.C.) 4x4
Condition
Very good condition/ Not driving
Margin Goods
Yes margin goods; No VAT applicable
€ 21.000,-
Incl. commission
Contact us

Details

Condition

The Ford GTB is in stunning condition and has always been kept dry; and it shows! The vehicle's maintenance history is documented. However, due to an extended period of inactivity, the Ford is currently not driving and it will require a full service, with special attention to the cooling system and brakes. The engine, though, is in running condition.

This 'Burma Jeep' currently does not have road registration and is sold 'as is'.

Note: Our trusted partner, BAIV, is a recognized restoration company with extensive experience in obtaining Dutch vehicle registrations and import/export permits. They can assist with these processes as needed; certain conditions do apply. We recommend contacting Track & Trade before bidding to discuss available options and any potential costs involved.

Technical details

Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Model
1 1/2-ton (L.C.) 4x4
Manufacturing date
27-10-1942
Chassis/ serial number
139450
Model number
08247-Z
Length
16 fr 5 in (5 m)
Width
7 ft 3 in (2,21 m)
Height (top up)
8 ft 3 in (2,5 m)
Height (top down)
4 ft 6 in (1,37 m)
Weight
7.250 lb (3,3 t)
Max. speed (land)
45 mph (72 km/h)
Operational range
200 mi (320 km)
Engine
Ford G8T 6 cyl, 3,7 litr, gasoline, 90 hp
Crew
2
Production numbers
15.000
Road registration
No

History

Development and History

The development of the Ford GTB,  also known as the ‘Burma Jeep’, began in 1941, when the U.S. government recognized the need for a light truck capable of operating in the rugged conditions of jungles and mountainous areas. Ford designed the GTB with a 6-cylinder engine and a 1.5-ton payload capacity, making it particularly suitable for transporting supplies, ammunition, and troops. The truck was equipped with four-wheel drive, which provided it with excellent off-road capabilities.

The Ford GTB earned the nickname "Burma Jeep" due to its extensive use in the Burma campaign, where the Allies fought against Japanese forces in what was then Burma (now Myanmar). The dense jungles and mountainous terrain of this region made a vehicle like the GTB essential for military operations.

 

Application

The Ford GTB was multifunctional and used for a wide range of tasks. There were several variants of the GTB, including models configured as crane trucks, transport vehicles, and radio trucks. The most notable variants were the GTB Cargo Truck, GTBA for the US Navy, GTBS Wrecker and the GTBS Bomb Service Truck for the Navy (GTBC ‘improved’ Bomb Service Truck).

The GTB was deployed by the U.S. military in various campaigns, but its most well-known contribution was in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Burma campaign. The GTB's rugged construction and reliability made it highly valued by the troops.

 

Deployment

Although the Ford GTB was primarily used by the United States (Navy), it was also supplied to allies through the Lend-Lease program. This allowed the United Kingdom and other Allied nations to utilize the truck for their own military operations. The GTB was mainly deployed in the fight against Japan in Asia, but it also saw use in other parts of the world where the Allies were active.

 

Use in Wars

The Ford GTB played a significant role during World War II and was used in various campaigns, most notably in the fight against the Imperial Japanese Army in Southeast Asia. After the war, many of these vehicles were transferred to civilian organizations or foreign armies, where they continued to serve for years.

Feel free to get in touch

Ivo Rigter Sr.

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