M-38A1 Research Archives

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John’s Completed His 1955 USAF M-38A1 Build

• CATEGORIES: Builds, M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

John’s complete the build of a 1955 M-38A1 USAF. Looks well done!

My 1955 M38A1 is finished.
I bought it in late 2021 and has Dave Arnold (the area’s leading MV guy) go over it.
It had recently had an engine rebuild, so it was just the usual stuff as well as all new seals, radiator and wiring harness.

Wanting seatbelts, I wanted something period correct, so I used aircraft seat belts like the motor pool could have gotten from base supply. They were reconditioned by an aircraft supply store.
I also got an orange/white “flightline flag”, that vehicles had to display back then. The holder used an existing hole. Finally, there is a decal on the dash explained the control tower traffic signals; back then they used a light gun in place of a radio.

The power plug is operational and I bought a slave cable that is compare with airplanes (today’s planes use the same 24v plug). So when I’m at the airport, I could jumpstart aircraft.

Lacking a hood number, I put it in USAF Markings and made it from Larson AFB (Moses Lake, WA), and my dad’s unit circa ’55-57…the
62nd Troop Carrier Wing. I was born at Larson a couple of weeks before the Jeep was built.

The current Hood number is, in AF style:
55 (year contracted for),
K (Military vehicle, General Purpose),
82551 (Willys serial).

The paint is the PPG formula, (I fixed test shots of the other two and This looked best). Growing up in AF based and spending 20 years in myself, I knew what looked correct to me.
Since gloss finish shows body issues, I had some minor bodywork and final paint done by a pro body guy.
When our purchased, it was straight (except the back panel was pushed in a bit from a backing accident…we straightened it, but most of the damage was covered by the spare tire) with no rust except in the fuel tank well.”

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1952 M-38A1 Lake Forest Park, WA $7000

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Lots of work looks completed.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/2555614704595252/

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“1952 Willys M38A1 project for sale. I have lost steam; it hasn’t been touched for several years so time to move on. The vehicle is not currently running but everything you see on the vehicle has been restored or replaced. Primary tasks left: – radiator and cooling system – fuel system – all electrical – front seats Included in the sale is only what is shown in the pictures. – Everything currently attached to jeep. – hood and fenders are included and are fully restored. – front seat frames are included but not yet restored – radiator is included but not yet restored – rollbar is included – spare tire (not pictured) included and restored – canvas top (not pictured) is usable. No other parts are included. Some surface rust starting to work its way back on the frame and the body. The engine was rebuilt many years ago but I haven’t gotten around to starting it (electrical and cooling not yet completed). Only significant modification I can think of is that it has been converted from 24 volt to a 12 volt system. Has many of the fording kit components installed. Have title in my name. Have collector plates for the jeep so no more annual registration. Price is $7,000 firm.”

 
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1954 M-38A1 Frankenmuth, MI $7500

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Ashley is selling her father’s M-38A1 project.

https://willysforsale.com/ads/1954-willys-m38a1-military-jeep-quarter-ton-4×4-order-stock-no-g-2758-8358319-mfg-by-willys-motors-inc-toledo-mfr-ser-no-73000-32290-miles-7500-00-frankenmuth-mi-48734/

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“1954 Willys M38A1 Military Jeep – Quarter Ton – 4X4 – Order Stock No. G-2758-8358319 – MFG by Willys Motors Inc Toledo – Mfr Ser No. 73000 – 32,290 miles – $7,500.00 or best offer – FRANKENMUTH, MI 48734

Possibly the most iconic military Jeep vehicle with a 19-year tour of duty that spanned the globe. First “round-fender” Jeep 4×4. Forerunner to the classic CJ-5. Over 101,000 vehicles were produced during it’s production run.

Currently not running. Needs some work, but the condition can be classified as 4 – Good. My Dad planned on converting from 24 volts to 12. This Willy will need a 12-volt civilian starter, distributor & ignition coil. Front left tire is dry-rotted & doesn’t hold air for long. The engine does still turn over by manually turning the fan.

Dark Wine/Cranberry in Color. Solid body. The location of the private property where this Willy cruised has been edited out of the hood decal with black marker for photos.

Vehicle MUST be inspected IN PERSON if interested. Delivery is NOT available. No Cashier’s Checks.”

 
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1953 M-38A1 & Trailer Stockton, IA **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 • TAGS: , This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Update: **sold** was $14,500.

Jeep and trailer in good shape.

https://quadcities.craigslist.org/cto/d/stockton-1953-willys-jeep-m38a1/7625441886.html

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“Real Willys 1953 M38A1 had been fully restored several years ago keeping true to originality.

All the lights work . Original 24 volt.

1967 Stevens trailer restored last 5 years, new paint,tires and brakes, lights and wiring. EXCELLENT Restored like a new one

Underneath is excellent. I do drive it and I take it in the woods in 4 wheel drive.

14,500 for both. OFFERS If you can’t take the time to see it don’t bother. No low ball offers- won’t sell the trailer first. Will remove add when sold. I am a private collector, purchased 4 years ago from an Army Vet who owned it about 20 years. He specially lettered this vehicle in tribute to his fallen friend. Selling as is No warranty. Located 6 miles West of Blue Grass.”

 
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Jeeps and Trailers Pocatello, ID Make offer

• CATEGORIES: CJ-2A, M-38A1, trailer This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Blaine spotted these ads for several jeeps and trailers for sale. The ads have similar photos. The flatfender is most likely a 1946 2A.

https://eastidaho.craigslist.org/for/d/pocatello-military-army-truck-trailer/7619946197.html

https://eastidaho.craigslist.org/for/d/pocatello-projects-trucks-ford-dodge/7621316317.html

https://eastidaho.craigslist.org/for/d/pocatello-military-army-truck-trailer/7621316095.html

“I have a number of military vehicles/ trailers ready for restoration.
1-g506 chevy 1-1/2 ton truck
M38-a1 jeep project
CJ2A good for parts but could fixed
M880 dodge pickup
1954 M38-A1 runs NO RUST
1- very rare m880 communication truck
4- WW2 Ben hur trailers 1 rare wood
m416 ,jeep trailer
1-M101 3/4 ton trailer
1-M105 trailer Very nice
1-AMMO trailer
JUST in jeep Converto airborne dump trailer RARE
Many more projects-call me with what you are looking for
Make offer or I would consider part trades or complete trades
208-two 21- four 506”

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Continue reading

 
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1953 M-38A1 Loomis, CA $8000

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Still needs some work, but it sounds like it’s a pretty good build.

https://sacramento.craigslist.org/cto/d/loomis-1953-jeep-cj-m38a1/7613556209.html

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“1953 Jeep M38A1 CJ PROJECT
It needs to be finished, i just don’t have the time. It hurts to take such a hit in money, but its time to find someone who will finish it. The pink is clean and in non op.

Throddle down custom frame, bumpers and swing out tire carrier, set up for YJ suspension

2 1/2 BDS YJ Springs

Front Axle-
Narrowed dana 44 waggy by WFO warn premium locking hubs, 4.88, E locker, chromoly axles,
chevy outers flat top, F150 rotors 5 x 5 1/2, everything new, brakes, rotors, calipers, dynatruck U bold flip kit

Rear Axle-
2013 JK rubicon 44 narrowed by predator, 4.88, E locker, chromoly axle, new bearings and calipers

Steering-
I did it tilt steering column – WFO inverted T steering kit, grant steering wheel, borguson u-joints,
J-20 3/4 ton saginaw box 4 to 1

Motor-
1991 S10 4.3 V-6 rebuilt, roller cam, roller tipped rockers, new P.S. pump and new pulley, new harmonic balancer and
new pulley, new fan, new fan clutch, new belt tensioner, A.F.I. fuel injection, taylor wires, novack headers,
novack motor mounts

Clutch-
new flywheel, new clutch set, novack adj throw out bearing, novack hyd slave cyl, new clutch fork

Transmission-
SM 420 rebuilt, new bell housing

Transfer case-
rebuilt dana 18 w 1 1/4 intermediate shaft, novack rebuild w tempered shaft, new yokes, novack sm420 dana18 adapter

Warn overdrive

Front seats newer, rear new

Roll bar with bimini top

Half doors

call rich
nine 1 six 7 five 9 four 8 five 0”

 
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1952 M-38A1 Lake Forest, WA $7000

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

This runs, but needs assembly.

https://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/d/seattle-1952-willys-m38a1-project/7621253018.html

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“1952 Willys M38A1 project for sale. I have lost steam; it hasn’t been touched for several years so time to move on. The vehicle is not currently running but everything you see on the vehicle has been restored or replaced. Primary tasks left:
– radiator and cooling system
– fuel system
– all electrical
– front seats
Continue reading

 
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1955? M-38A1 Kelso, WA $1200

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Listed as a 1955, this has the hinged grille and front-fenders-with-angle-joint, suggesting it is a 1952 or early 1953.

https://portland.craigslist.org/clk/cto/d/kelso-1955-willow-jeep/7620305170.html

“M38a1 military jeep no seats bone stock 24v electrical. Passenger floor needs patch. Broken piston. No title. $1200”

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1952 M-38A1 Yakima, WA $3500

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

This early M-38A1 seems worth a look.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/623502372548582

“1952 Willy’s Jeep all stock 4 cylinder not a bad little stock Jeep needs brakes $3500 obo or trade?”

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1952 M-38A1 Gilbert, AZ **SOLD**

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 • TAGS: , This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was auctioned for $21,000 on Bring-A-Trailer.

“This 1952 Willys M38A1 is finished in drab green with US Army-style graphics over khaki canvas upholstery and is powered by a 134ci inline-four mated to a three-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Features include a beige canvas soft top, 15″ steel wheels, a Jerry can mount, a water fording system, and a 24-volt electrical system. The truck is said to have been refurbished under prior ownership and was acquired by the seller in early 2022. Subsequent work reportedly involved rebuilding the carburetor, flushing the fuel system, and installing a deep water valve system in addition to replacing the voltage regulator, ignition wires, springs, and front tie rods. This M38A1 is offered with miscellaneous manuals, a storage bag, partial service records, and a clean Arizona title in the seller’s name.”

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1955 & 1959 M-38A1s Tabor City, NC $5000

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Seems worth a look.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1168033583884363/

“Have these 2 Jeep’s One was running 1955 has the title and original paper work the other one 1959 is just for extra parts asking 6000 obo Have more pictures upon request”

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1952 USMC M-38A1 Redding, CA eBay

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Bill shared this M-38A1. It’s claimed the jeep only has less than 2500 miles. This does not appear to have the correct rear bumper for a USMC (see this pic that shows a USMC bumper: https://www.m38a1.com/images/models/USMC/USMC12.jpg)

View all the information on eBay

“1952 M38A1 USMC Jeep. NEVER RESTORED. Originally headed for Korea but Marines cancelled so it was sold off the dock at Alameda. A coat of Forest Green paint was applied and it was sold to civilians. You can still see USMC and number under paint. Always stored indoors, never driven on dirt. Only 2438 original miles. All original including canvas and tires. Shovel has never shoveled dirt. 24-volt system. A few dings, as seen in the photos. Extra, new, transmission as well as river fording snorkel included. Runs great. Steering a little loose and brakes soft.”

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1953 M-38A1 Tillamook, OR $10,000

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 • TAGS: , This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: Price dropped to $10,000.

Looks in good shape.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/944011369955063\

“1953 M3A1 Jeep.‘Original metal, seems to have been repainted at some point. Starts and drives great”

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1955 M-38A1 Martinsburg, WV $2500

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 • TAGS: This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Andy shared this find, which was previously listed in 2019. It’s an M-38A1 with an extended rear. We’ve seen a few of these over the years, but I don’t have much history about them. The half top looks like a sears branded one.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/117739094619754/

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“This is not a CJ6! This is extend behind the rear wheel like a scrambler. It is a super rare military Jeep that even most military Jeep enthusiasts know nothing about. I put the cj5 half cab on it but it can be easily removed. The engine ran but hasn’t for years now. The floorboards were very rusted and have been cut out to be replaced. I have a military tub with great flooring to go with it that needs to be welded in. This would be a great project that would be well worth the effort because of the rarity of this Jeep. Call me at 54zero 66four39two 3 and I can give you more info about it. Last picture is of another one like it”

 
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1955 M-38A1 Garberville, CA $6500

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 • TAGS: , This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

This has an unusual paint scheme.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1538083753329496

“1955 Willys M38A1 ex military, very little rust in the floor boards. Over 6500 in receipts for recent upgrades including, wrangle spring conversion, knuckle joints, bearings, brakes, fuel tank, etc. Removable tin top, Jeep brand , doors are include not shown. Starts and runs great, awesome condition for restoration or use as it.”

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1954 M-38A1 Cape Coral, FL eBay

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Bill shared this project.

View all the information eBay

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“1954 Military M38A1 Jeep Restoration Project. That needs restoration It has 95% of the original parts and has not been modified It is original I beleave as issued This vehicle sat outside for awhile and the condition supports this. I was going to do a motor pool restoration but health and age I was unable to finish When I got the vehicle the engine was stuc. I freed up the engine and put new rings in it The old paint was partially removed and was repainted The following new parts were installed: 4 shocks, 4 wheel cyl. and hoses, master cyl, 5 new inner tubes repro gas tank and pickup, set of used military radios rebuilt fuel pump and oil lines.

Continue reading

 
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1955 M-38A1 Accomac, VA $6757

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Bill spotted this M-38A1 with a seemingly random price choice. There seems to be some potential here.

View all the information on eBay

“1955 M38A1 Willys Military JEEP
Restoration started
Floor has been completely fiber glassed
New carburetor, fuel tank, brake and fuel lines, black out head light, dash has been replaced with a rust free replacement
New paint job (not professionally done) but still good on the Jeep.
Engine ran up until the Jeep was disassembled for restoration.
New wiring harness for the head lights.
Comes with extra parts
Front seat cushions (old) and rear seat frame included.

Health issues ended the restoration and forced the sale”

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1955 M-38A1/CJ-5 Jefferson, TX $1950 on eBay

• CATEGORIES: CJ5, M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Bill spotted this one. It appears to have a 1955 or 1956 CJ-5 chassis (reversed front springs and has a PTO bar setup in the back), but with an M-38A1 body (though the grille is CJ).

View all the information on eBay

“M38A1 ✧ MILITARY ARMY JEEP ✧ GREAT FOR REPAIR OR RESTORATION ✧ NEEDS WORK. I don’t know much more, I think it’s a 1955”

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1953 M-38A1 Fresno, CA $9500

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 • TAGS: , This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Here’s another Fresno jeep with a Muller top.

https://fresno.craigslist.org/cto/d/fresno-1953-m38a1-willys-jeep/7591424990.html

“53 Willys M38-A1 Military Gunner Jeep. This model has the highly desired heavy duty turret frame because they were often used with a tripod mounted 50 caliber machine gun.
This Jeep now sports a ’69 Chevy 327 V-8 engine w/overdrive, 4-stick shifts (4-speed, 2wd-4wd, Hi-Lo, Overdrive), power steering, power brakes, Warn Locking hubs all around so you can tow it free-wheeling. Two Heaters. An extra external radiator fan. Two gas tanks. New modern fuse box built into custom glove box.
Also includes soft side windows and doors (not shown), roll bar, tow bar, trailer hitch.
Front winch and wipers are not hooked up.”

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2 1953 M-38A1s Lakewood, WA $1500

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Seems worth a look.

https://seattle.craigslist.org/oly/cto/d/lakewood-m38a1-jeeps/7589843623.html

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“2 Jeeps with enough parts to build one with extras. Both have a titles. Full arctic top with original wooden doors, winch, Body on the complete jeep is rough and probably not usable except for parts. It’s still 24 volt and is basically complete as shown. Everything pictured plus tons that has been in dry storage for Atleast 20 years. Included but not pictured is an extra usable long block, several transmissions, several transfer cases, rebuilt front and rear axles, gauges, steering parts, rear seat, pedals, and tons of misc This is all the pictures I have and I will not dig individual parts out of storage to take more. This is a project I will never get to. $1500 for everything must take all.”

 
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1960 M-38A1 Mt. Clare, WV $3500

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 • TAGS: , This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: Still Available.

(02/18/2023) Mike shared this former civil defense jeep with a Meyer hardtop.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1610291332766089

“60 s willys m38 a 1 project will start and move on its own 3500 obo no trades.”

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1952 M-38A1 w/ Trailer Bellevue, ID $13,500

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

This has a blown head gasket, but looks in great condition otherwise.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/2916393698665730/

“This is an Army 1952 Jeep Willys. 24 Volt (2 batteries). I did originally drive it but it now has a head gasket problem beyond my ability to repair. I’m a 26 year vet who was hoping to drive this jeep and enjoy past memories. It needs a mechanics touch. I will add more information and pictures shortly as it also comes with a army trailer, doors and top, roll bar, a metal rack that slides into the trailer hitch, chains, and a variety of other accessories i.e. (heater) etc. Serious buyers only please/cash sale (I have the title). If cashier’s check, then buyer will accompany seller to a local bank to make the deposit”

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1952 M-38A1 & 1948 CJ-2A Alger, MI $6200

• CATEGORIES: CJ-2A, M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

The 2A is a parts jeep.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/2273086989520606/

“1952m38A1,1948parts jeep plus extra parts canvas doors gage ect.all included”

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1953 M-38A1 Union, MO $8480

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 • TAGS: , , This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

UPDATE: Price now $8480.

(01/05/2022) Looks in good shape.

https://stlouis.craigslist.org/ctd/d/union-1953-jeep-m38-military-great/7565496002.html

“This is a 1953 Willys military jeep. It is not perfect but has been saved and redone in many areas. Mechanically good it runs and drives. The carburetor has been rebuilt and the jeep has new batteries. The 24 volt military electrical system in intact and most work. An electric fuel pump has been installed. Sure it is old and not a high speed truck. But rolling history in relativly good condition. The jeep is sold with a bill of sale”

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1953 M-38A1 Templeton, CA $8000

• CATEGORIES: M-38A1 This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Likely the frame is about all that’s left of the original M-38A1. Looks solid.

https://slo.craigslist.org/cto/7560801746.html

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“1953 Jeep Willy with a clean 70’s body and rust free frame. 75k Miles.

All new brake lines, master cylinder, fuel pump, fuel filter and meticulous wiring job completed.

Buick 225 engine, V6, T90 transmission, Dana 18 transfer case, Dana 44 Rear End, Dana 30 Front end and Warn overdrive.

New 33″ mud terrains, full roll cage, rancho shocks, also has a Warn front wench.

This Jeep runs STRONG!”