Estrella WarBirds Museum

GTB-G622
1-1/2 ton Cargo truck

Serial: USN 104476
License: HV 510S

The Ford GTB, called the “Burma Jeep”, was produced during WWII and was used primarily by the US Navy and Marine Corps and used exclusively in the Pacific Theater during World War II, many used on the "Burma Road". Its Ordinance Standard nomenclature number was G-622. Ford produced the low silhouette, short and maneuverable GTB in five models collectively called the G-622. Total production of the 1-½ ton models was over 15,000 units, including these variants:

GTB truck, Cargo
GTBA truck, (US Navy)
GTBB truck, Wrecker,  (Rare, only 50 produced)
GTBS truck, Bomb Service with crane (US Navy)
GTBC truck, Bomb Service with crane (USN, improved)

The Burma Jeeps were powered by a Ford 6-cylinder flathead gasoline engine producing 90 horsepower. They were 1-½ ton capacity, 4-wheel drive with a 4-speed transmission and a 2-speed transfer case. The Burma Jeep on display at Estrella WarBirds Museum has dual real wheels, 4-wheel drive, and a 10,000 lb Braden MU-6 winch.

Ford records indicate the paint color specified by the US Navy was “Ocean Gray” for all Navy contracts. The G-622 GTB vehicles were produced with and without a 10,000 lb. Gar Wood or Braden front mounted winch. All models except the GTBS had dual rear wheels. The cowl covering the engine separated the cab area, and the passenger seat was a light metal frame, which faced the driver, and could be enclosed by raising the windshield and installing a canvas top. The cargo truck had troop seats and bows for a canvas cover.

The restoration so far has included a complete topside cleaning and paint, engine tune-up, complete running gear inspection (brakes, bearings, seals), replacement of all fluids, steering gear overhaul, a reconstruction of the front passenger seat, new upholstery, and 2 new front tires. A complete cleaning and painting of the underside US Navy “Ocean Gray" completed the restoration.