The function of a fold down windshield likely originated as a solution to a logistics problem. Jeeps equipped with soft-tops and folding windscreens could be packed and shipped in smaller crates for rail or air transport
The fold down windshield on the military jeep exists primarily for the following reasons: A) Because glass reflects the sun, most US military vehicles used to have both a fold down windshield and a canvas cover for it so the enemy didn't see your forces from the reflection. [ The British had windshields that were tapered in the opposite direction, so the base was closer to the driver than the top for this reason on their military vehicles. ] B) Those who drive jeeps off road know that a stray branch will break your windshield every so often. With the full roll cage, that branch won't hit your face or your folded down windshield. And yes, soldiers in WWII did get hit by branches often, but that was no big deal compared to being shot by Jerry.... C) Having a fold down windshield allows the radio operator [soldier in the passenger seat] to fire a weapon such as a carbine and even allows the placement of a 30 or 50 caliber machine gun on that seat. d) You don't need windshield wipers if there is no windshield. e) After the windshield is damaged, you can still drive the jeep while it is folded down.
This is actually the PERFECT Jeep as is (okay, once it's mechanically sorted out more). Now that mint examples of these are getting pretty valuable, its so nice to have one you can truly thrash and not care about!
So the Jeep has been relatively the same premise. Since 1941, these were created for the armed forces, Army. The window folds so the rear passenger gunner had a clear shot at the enemy. Good video. It's always nice to see new members of the Jeep family getting acquainted with their Jeep! You're a good guy and a great friend Charles.
Fold down windshield is a carry over from military MB Jeeps. Folding it down could save your life in war because light reflecting off glass gives away your position - Also folded down it's easier to fire weapons without obstruction & makes a lower profile for concealment behind things like hedge rows. 1950s Jeeps were popular farm/ranch vehicles esp. for veterans after the war. It's easier to do work with windshield down. 1970s 4 wheeling crazy hit & Jeepers liked folding it off roading. Notice there's 2 small rests on top the hood for the windshield frame to rest on & the interior top windshield frame strap hold matches larger exterior strap mount on hood to strap & cinch the windshield so it doesn't flop around & break glass.
Ethan, I welcome Charles to the channel! I just realized you have the square headlight, Renault-French Jeep. Nowadays the Jeep has returned to traditional round headlights under Peugeot-Fiat ownership. 😉😉
So here’s the real reason why Jeeps had fold down windshields and it’s not what you would think of. A big piece of glass flashing in the sunlight would give your position away to the enemy. Soldiers would fold it down and throw a blanket over it. It’s the same reason the headlights originally were able to turn backwards.
I have one of these. Personally, they are a pita sometimes. A few ground rules, dont call a jeep a car, you will get laughed at. Angry eyes grills are the oddball of the family, we dont talk to them. Learn the jeep wave. They’re some great modifications to bring this up to date. A couple things I recommend, bikini top, remove rear track bar, full tune up on engine including 4 port fuel injectors, small lift (2 inch) with new springs and shocks, and finally put the windshield wipers back in the right spot. The resting position is in the middle of the windshield. Check your steering intermediate shaft, it looked slightly loose when you guess where steering. I can provide any tips, just ask!
Square headlight jeep is best jeep. I really like these years wranglers. When I was looking for my first car I really wanted one of this era but all of them were rusted out...
Fifty years ago, I ran around with two of my uncles in jeeps in the California desert, this year I bought a new jeep, and a forty year old jeep, just to keep me busy and enjoying driving again.
I lived in Charleston SC and it snowed so hard my wipers failed. Solution, push the window down and drive home. This was in my CJ so much easier than in my YJ but still fun
Nice yj man i have a 89 they are a blast. I also live in la there are some great 4x4 areas not too far away. Have a great time man. If ya ever want to hit some trails rowher flats is fun. If you ever want to take it out with a group check out dirtnation offroad we do mild to wild trails and always welcome new offroaders. Stay safe and happy trails 👣
Hard to believe either of these know anything about cars when they keep calling the Jeep a "car".😆 More likely they have a third friend who did all the work while they sat in Starbucks looking at LL Bean online.
