JONGA Nissan P60 – 1963
The JONGA was a Nissan, Japan designed vehicle used by the Indian Army. JONGA – an acronym for Jabalpur Ordnance aNd Guncarriage Assembly.
In 1960, Nissan introduced their new 4×4 called the P60 i.e., Patrol 60. The vehicle was available in two wheelbases and three body types. The P60 was inducted by the Indian Armed forces in 1963-64, along with the Nissan Carrier, D4W73 1 Ton. Both vehicles were fitted with the same engine. These vehicles were built by the Vehicle Factory Jabalpur (VFJ) under an exclusive license from Nissan, Japan for the Indian Army. Hence the P60 came to be known as the Jabalpur Ordnance aNd Guncarriage Assembly – JONGA. The JONGA went on to acquire an iconic status within the Indian Army with it’s high ground clearance and powerful engine. The vehicle was modified to suit several military requirements viz., ambulance, signal vehicle/rovers and recovery vehicles. JONGA was very successful on the mountainous terrain. Later the Indian Army participated in several expeditions and rallies with the same vehicle. The engine of this vehicle was often referred to as a bullet proof engine as this was a very rugged engine with almost nil mechanical problems.
It had a 3 speed gearbox with 2 speed SOTF Transfer Case and a Power Take Off. Some JONGAs were equipped with a mechanical winch (PTO). This JONGA was suitably modified, by the Indian Army, fitted with a hard roof, with 5 doors. It was used exclusively by the GOC (General Officer Commanding) as his personal vehicle.
This JONGA was auctioned by the Indian Army in December 2008, and has been restored to its original condition. It is a very solid & powerful vehicle, it can literally go anywhere.
Specifications :
- Manufacturer : Vehicle Factory, Jabalpur.
- Engine : 6 Cylinder, 3956cc in-line, petrol engine developing 110 HP @ 3200 RPM.
- Max Torque : 26.9 mkg @ 1200 RPM.
- Air Cleaner : Oil Bath with cyclonic pre-cleaner.
- Clutch : Single plate dry friction type, diameter 280mm
- Gear Box : Synchromesh with 3F + 1R.
- Transfer Case : Two speed.
- Front Axle : Fully floating, driven with birfield joints.
- Rear Axle : Semi-floating, tubular with banjo housing differential.
- Steering : Worm and Roller.
- Brakes : Hydraulic.
- Parking Brake : Contracting type on transmission.
- Tyre Size : 7.00 x 16 x 6 Ply MRF NDMS
- Gradeability : 30°
- Min Turning Circle : 10.6 meter
- Ground Clearance : 222mm
- Payload Capacity : 250 kg