To Top

New L-134s Being Tested

• CATEGORIES: Features This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Merlin at Hanson Mechanical broke the news of a new L-134 (not rebuilt) being tested. Read all about it here:

test-run-l134

 

5 Comments on “New L-134s Being Tested

  1. Mike

    Trying to keep an open mind about this, but one thought comes to mind. The story mentions the engine blocks will be made in a OVERSEAS FOUNDRY with what seems to be an incredible low list price, sounds like an engine block MADE IN CHINA. You have to ask yourself this question; After spending countless hours and large amounts of money, is this what I really want for my Willys restoration?

    I think this is going to be a “Hard Sell”, lining up dealers for one, and the general attitude of the public towards Made in America vs made overseas. The Willys Jeep has always been symbolic with what makes AMERICA GREAT. Time will tell, but I for one am somewhat LEARY of this idea.

    P.S. Dave, the Ewillys facebook page link to this story is not functional.

  2. Steve

    If you look at all the replacement parts for L heads, it is hard to find anything not made in China or elsewhere. As long as the quality is there and the block is affordable, there are probably a lot of folks who will just want to get a good block for their jeep.. looks good to me.

  3. David Eilers Post author

    Thanks Mike. I’ll check out the link.

    As of 2004 there were about 3800 foundries in the United States. At that time, we were losing about 50 foundries a year. In contrast, China had about 12,000 foundries. According to recent info, the foundry business has stabilized in the US and the outlook is good (http://foundrymag.com/feature/metalcasting-business-outlook-2015). However, the US foundries probably have to focus on high margin items to compete against international foundries, so I could see why no foundry would want to deal with the engine.

  4. David Eilers Post author

    **NOTE**

    Tonight there was an anonymous complaint about Merlin in this comment section. While the commenter might have a legitimate complaint, this website isn’t here to troll people (i.e., level unsubstantiated accusations and/or obvious hyperbolic statements) with whom others have disagreements. If the person making the complaint wants to contact me directly and have a more lucid discussion, then I’m all ears.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe without commenting