Interesting facts

 

Bantam successfully produced the first prototype jeep vehicle for the military.  It was decided by the military however that Bantam would not be able to successfully meet production schedules since they were a relatively small company.  They were awarded a token contract to produce trailers for the jeep instead.  The following outlines their production, with some other interesting information:

 

 

 

Year

Units

Produced

Contract

Number

USA

Registration

1942

5,000

ORD 2518

168918 – 173917

1943

17,567

ORD 2519

253934 – 271500

1943

5,583

ORD 2906

271501 – 277083

1943

13,418

ORD 2906

463283 – 476700

1943

9,169

ORD 2906

697387 – 706550

1943

250

ORD 2960

639010 – 639259

                                                                     

 

Differences Beteween Bantam and Willys WWII ¼ ton trailers:

 

1.  Axle construction, Bantam solid tube, button welded to hubs,

     Willys weld seam in middle. Picture of Bantam.

2.  Number stamped under left front spring hanger bracket on frame contains a “B”.

     Picture of Bantam.

3.  Top shock absorber attachment used nut instead of cotter key. Picture of Bantam.

 

If you know of anymore please e-mail me and I’ll add them to list.