Unearthing the Civilian Converto Trailer: A Collector's Guide

The world of vintage trailers holds a special allure, particularly for enthusiasts of classic Jeeps and related Americana. Among these, the Civilian Converto trailer occupies a unique, somewhat mysterious niche. While military versions are well-documented, information about their civilian counterparts can be scarce. This article aims to shed light on the Civilian Converto trailer, drawing upon discussions and insights from dedicated forums and historical resources.

Converto's Civilian Offering: Beyond the Military Look-Alike

Contrary to initial assumptions, the Civilian Converto trailer wasn't simply a rebranded version of its military sibling. According to discussions on The CJ2A Page forums, a dedicated online community for vintage Jeep enthusiasts, Converto did produce a civilian model of the "Dump Trailer," but its design differed significantly from the military version.

Unveiling the Design: Key Features and Identifying Characteristics

Pinpointing the exact features of a Civilian Converto trailer requires a bit of detective work. Forum members suggest looking for these characteristics:

• Pivot Point: Converto trailers often feature a pivot point located just above the axle.
• Tailgate Versatility: The tailgate typically has the ability to pivot from both the top and bottom.
• Absence of Springs: Unlike some other trailers of the era, the Civilian Converto dump trailer might lack axle springs. This is a key distinguishing factor to consider.

The Dump Feature: Factory Original or "Bubba Mod"?

A common question revolves around the dump functionality. Did Converto manufacture civilian versions with a factory-installed dump feature? The answer appears to be yes. Forum member "48cj2a" shared a fascinating advertisement from a 1946 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph Gimbels ad, suggesting that a civilian dump model was indeed offered shortly after World War II.

Restoration Considerations: Parts, Price, and Authenticity

For those considering restoring a Civilian Converto trailer, several factors come into play:

• Locating Missing Parts: Finding original parts can be challenging but not impossible. Online forums and networking with other owners are valuable resources.
• Assessing Value: The value of a Civilian Converto trailer depends on its condition and originality. A trailer in good condition with potential for restoration might be worth considering at a price point of around $500, but this can vary widely.
• Hitch Couplers: Early trailers seemed to use a variation of the Fulton Coupler with the knob. Later trailers used a cast hitch assembly

Rims and Tires: Maintaining Authenticity

Another important consideration is the wheel and tire configuration. Early advertisements suggest that some Civilian Converto trailers were equipped with Non-Directional Tread (NDT) tires, commonly found on military vehicles. When restoring, aiming for a similar setup can enhance the trailer's authenticity. Additionally, checking the lug pattern is crucial for ensuring compatibility with your tow vehicle or planning for a separate spare tire.

Resources for Further Research

• The CJ2A Page: This forum (https://www.thecj2apage.com/) is a treasure trove of information on vintage Jeeps and related equipment, including trailers.
• eWillys: This website (http://www.ewillys.com/2019/06/26/converto-trailer-photos/) showcases various Jeep-related vehicles and trailers, including examples of Converto trailers.
• Bantam T3-C Website: This website (http://bantamt3c.com) provides information about Bantam trailers and sometimes includes information about Converto trailers due to their historical connection.

Conclusion: A Rewarding Restoration Project

The Civilian Converto trailer represents a fascinating chapter in post-World War II utility vehicle history. While information can be scattered, dedicated enthusiasts and historical resources are gradually piecing together the puzzle. Restoring a Civilian Converto trailer is a rewarding project, connecting you to a unique piece of Americana and the legacy of early Jeep-related innovation.