Ford GPA

Ford GPA 'Seep' (Sea Jeep)
Overview
ManufacturerFord
Production1942–1943
12,778 built
AssemblyUnited States
Body and chassis
ClassAmphibious military utility vehicle
Layoutfront-engine RWD / 4×4
PlatformFord GP
RelatedGAZ-46 (MAV)
Powertrain
Engine
  • 4-cyl. side valves
  • 134 cu in (2,200 cc), 60 hp
Transmission
  • 3-speed + 2-speed transfer case
  • Low range engages FWD
  • PTO propeller drive
Dimensions
Wheelbase84 inches (2.13 m)
Length182 inches (4.62 m)
Width64 inches (1.63 m)
Height
  • 69 inches (1.75 m)
  • 45 inches (1.14 m) reducible
Curb weight
  • 1,110 kg
  • 1,610 kg (GWV)

The Ford GPA "Seep" (Government 'P' Amphibious, where 'P' stood for its 80-inch wheelbase), with supply catalog number G504, was an amphibious version of the World War II Ford GPW jeep. Over 12 thousand were made and they served with Allied forces in the many theatres of WW2, including the Pacific, Eastern front, and from D-day to the end. After the war as surplus they found many niche roles, and today examples can be found in museums collections or at military history shows.

Design features concept was similar to the larger and successful DUKW amphibious 212-ton truck were used on the GPA, but unlike these and the jeep, the 'seep' was not as successful a design. It was considered too slow and heavy on land, and lacked sufficient seagoing abilities in open water, due mainly to its low freeboard.[1] Despite this it did have widespread use across the theatres of WW2.

The Soviet Union received one third of the total GPA production under Lend Lease, and were sufficiently satisfied with its ability to cross calmer inland waters, that they produced a copy, the GAZ-46.

  1. ^ "Ford GPA amphibious jeep story". www.m201.com.