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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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1951 M-38 Waller, TX **SOLD**

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

UPDATE: **SOLD** Was $3400.

(04/17/2023) This likely has an f-head.

“1951 Jeep Willys, military version, original four-cylinder engine, has not been started in a number of years but spins free. No title only a bill of sale. Awesome jeep was used on ranch for years. All the mods are downdraft instead of sidedraft carburetor and aftermarket wheels and tires. I have the original wheels with old tires on them.”

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1952 M-38 Walnut Creek, CA $12,500

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

Appear solid.

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/d/walnut-creek-1952-willys-m38/7620199779.html

“I’ve had this brute for 25 years and just ain’t using it anymore…
All original, currently running w/12 volt distributor/coil. Runs great, 4 wheels great, very solid and needs some tlc.
Have unused, NOS front right fender and carburetor. If interested, please email me your phone number and we can go from there.”

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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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1951 M-38 + Trailer Robertsville, MO eBay

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

Bill shared this combo that is still under reserve with a bid of $3150.

View all the information on ebay

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“1951 Willys M-38 and M100 trailer. 8400 miles, I believe to be original. The jeep is in good condition, not perfect. It has a few dings and scratches. It has a clear title. The trailer does not have a title. It has been with the jeep for at least 30 plus years.it runs drives and stops. All lights work and black out lights too. The horn works as well. It has a miss when it warms but have narrowed it down to cap and or a coil. All 24 volt is still original to the jeep.  It also comes with a top and all the hardware. I do have the doors as well. I do have the canvas for the trailer as well, it is not in great shape but can get good measurements.”

 

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Year? M-38 Kingsport, TN $10,000

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

This has some early style Desert Dogs that appear recapped with Armstrong Tru Trac (?)  treads. Heresy!

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1299388217274944/

“nes. Have to pump once for good peddle possible master cylinder needed. Full floating rear end. 4 wheel drive works good. Have daily driven in good weather. Heater has been installed in cowl battery box and works good but unknown make or model. Needs leaf springs. Has jeep lean. Jackman rims left rear has slight warp. Old DESERT DOG tires with good tread. All hold air but do have cracks. No rust in hat channels or body or frame. More photos available. Titled as a 45 Cj2a. Also have some miscellaneous small parts including the blackout fender light. Has new fuel pump only a couple months old and a water pump that’s about 2 years old. Have a small loan on it but title is held at a local bank so no problem paying it off and having the title in hand on day of purchase.”

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1952 M-38 Lake City, CO eBay

• CATEGORIES: Fire/Police/Industry Vehicles, M-38 • TAGS: , This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Bill shared this M-38 with the full heating system. The current bid is only $2424.99. Note the US ARMY Fire Marshall text over the heater.

View all the information on eBay

“1952 M38, this Jeep is amazing shape originally from Alaska has the Arctic hard cab and gas heater, runs like new has most of original military components still intact, almost no rust, (surface mostly) has been converted to 12V at some point. Have clear CO title in hand. Runs Drives and Stops. Jeep can be driven as is ready to go.

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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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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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1951 M-38 Robertsville, MO eBay

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

Bill shared this one.

View all the information on eBay

“1951 Willys M-38 and M100 trailer. 8400 miles, I believe to be original. The jeep is in good condition, not perfect. It has a few dings and scratches. It has a clear title. The trailer does not have a title. It has been with the jeep for at least 30 plus years.it runs drives and stops. All lights work and black out lights too. The horn works as well. It has a miss when it warms but have narrowed it down to cap and or a coil. All 24 volt is still original to the jeep.  It also comes with a top and all the hardware. I do have the doors as well. I do have the canvas for the trailer as well, it is not in great shape but can get good measurements.”

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Year? M-38 Eloy, AZ eBay

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

Bill spotted this M-38 with an f-head. It’s listed as a 1949, but these weren’t produced until 1950.

View all the information on eBay

“Willys.  Also known as M38. Only 27,000 made worldwide in 1949”

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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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1952 M-38 Puyallup, WA 9600

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

UPDATE: This is relisted art a higher price. Unclear if this is being resold or not..

(10/30/2022) Lots of updates to this rig. It looks ready for the hills.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/681871913367389

“Willy’s jeep ready for some crawling with this gearing. Saginaw steering power, 538 gears, motor is a 4 speed granny gear. Chev toploader. Onboard air. This Jeep is ready for you to add your personal touches. It’s stored and has been stored in a garage. No rust and no trades.”

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