1940's Ford GPA Amphibian Jeep, The Muckleburgh Military Collection.
In 1942 the Ford GPA ''Seep'' was first designed to transport soldiers to and from offshore ships but it couldn't handle the force of the waves despite the front shield. Instead it was used for crossing rivers in a reconnaissance role but performed poorly on land so production ended in 1943 and survivors are now rare.
The controls are similar to those of a Jeep with the addition of two PTP levers, one for the propeller and one for the bilge pump. The rudder is connected to the steering linkage and it has an engine driven anchor capstan. The seat cushions were intended to double as life preserves.
After military service the Museum's example came from the Channel Islands were it was used for rides on the beach. It required extensive restoration and is now in working order.
Specifications -
▪︎Engine: 4-cylinder side valve, 60bhp
▪︎Transmission: 3 speed FED + propeller drive
▪︎Speed: Road - 50mph / water - 5.5mph
▪︎Weight: 3,400lb.
Information from The Muckleburgh Military Collection.
1940's Ford GPA Amphibian Jeep, The Muckleburgh Military Collection.
In 1942 the Ford GPA ''Seep'' was first designed to transport soldiers to and from offshore ships but it couldn't handle the force of the waves despite the front shield. Instead it was used for crossing rivers in a reconnaissance role but performed poorly on land so production ended in 1943 and survivors are now rare.
The controls are similar to those of a Jeep with the addition of two PTP levers, one for the propeller and one for the bilge pump. The rudder is connected to the steering linkage and it has an engine driven anchor capstan. The seat cushions were intended to double as life preserves.
After military service the Museum's example came from the Channel Islands were it was used for rides on the beach. It required extensive restoration and is now in working order.
Specifications -
▪︎Engine: 4-cylinder side valve, 60bhp
▪︎Transmission: 3 speed FED + propeller drive
▪︎Speed: Road - 50mph / water - 5.5mph
▪︎Weight: 3,400lb.
Information from The Muckleburgh Military Collection.