2009 Top Truck Challenge Competitor: Wayne Sheeley's 1963 Willys Jeep FC 170

Now here's something you don't see every day. No, we're not talking about the Sheeleys in matching bright orange T-shirts. We're referring to their Durabak polyurethane-coated rig that's rolling 44-inch Boggers on 15x10 steel double beadlock wheels. Other eye-catching mods include the bed-mounted spare, the front-mounted Warn 8274 winch, and the rear-mounted Warn M8000 winch.

Now here's something you don't see every day. No, we're not talking about the Sheeleys in

Here it is, folks-the number one vote-getter this year by a wide margin. Not only is this '63 Willys FC-170 mega unique, it's being piloted by Wayne Sheeley, who was the co-driver for his wife, Addie, when she competed at TTC two years ago in her TJ. Now they're back for more, only this time it's his turn to drive. Sheeley says this rig was built over the course of "one cold winter." The result? A rare truck with a fascinating mix of old and new tech that apparently many of you really like.

Specifications
Owner name/city: Wayne Sheeley/Walden, New York
Occupation: Self-employed
Vehicle model: 1963 Willys FC-170
Estimated value: $27,000
Engine/aspiration: 383ci Chevy LS6 V-8, EFI, BBK intake manifold, Hooker headers
Transmission: B&M TH400
Transfer case: Atlas 4.3
Suspension (f/r): 6-in-lift coil springs, Fabtech shocks, Bilstein hydraulic bumpstops/6-in-lift coil springs, Bilstein shocks
Axles (f/r): Dana 60, Detroit Locker/Dana 60, Detroit Locker
Axle ratio: 5.13:1
Wheels: 15x10 steel, double beadlock
Tires: 44-in Super Swamper TSL Bogger

Like the front, the rear of the truck has a beefy Solid Axle Industries Dana 60 with Detroit Locker to improve traction and Ford disc brakes to rein in the FC's forward momentum. The rear suspension is similar to the front and consists of coil springs and Bilstein remote-reservoir shocks.
Like the front, the rear of the truck has a beefy Solid Axle Industries Dana 60 with Detro
A stout Solid Axle Industries Dana 60 resides under the front of the truck and it has a Detroit Locker, Ford disc brakes, and 5.13:1 gears. Sheeley has no problem aiming the 44-inch Boggers, thanks to hydraulic steering. Six-inch-lift coil springs, Fabtech shocks, Bilstein hydraulic bumpstops, and a Currie Antirock Sway Bar Kit comprise the flexy front suspension.
A stout Solid Axle Industries Dana 60 resides under the front of the truck and it has a De
Things are a bit different in the FC's cab as compared to other rigs. For instance, Sheeley sits next to the engine, and the front winch is at his feet. He has great visibility of the oncoming trail, thanks to the lack of protruding hood in the cab-over-engine design. Inside the cab, there's a custom rollcage, a pair of Kirkey seats with RJS belts, a Sweet Manufacturing steering wheel, and a collection of Auto Meter gauges.
Things are a bit different in the FC's cab as compared to other rigs. For instance, Sheele

When it comes to the powertrain, things look a tad different under the Willys than they did in 1963. Now, there's a modified, fuel-injected 383ci LS6 V-8 residing between the framerails and it produces an estimated 520 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. It's cooled by a Griffin radiator and it spins a 130-amp alternator that charges a duo of Optima YellowTop batteries. Power is sent to a B&M TH400 trans and behind that is an Atlas 4.3 transfer case.
When it comes to the powertrain, things look a tad different under the Willys than they di