G503 Military Vehicle Message Forums

I have had this M38-A1 for over 20 years. I always knew that the dash data plates didn't match the title. The data plate behind the passenger seat was not legible. I want to get things straitened out. My title says the vin (serial number) is D101266. I'm assuming they got this off the engine and left out the "M" before the "D". The engine number that is above the water pump is gone, (block was replaced). Can anyone tell me if that number is true to a M38-A1 and what year it's supposed to be. I think it's a late 53, (no hinged grill and single clamp for battery cover). Dash data plate says it a 1954 with serial #73745 with a dod of 6/54.

Gary Turman wrote:I have had this M38-A1 for over 20 years. I always knew that the dash data plates didn't match the title. The data plate behind the passenger seat was not legible. I want to get things straitened out. My title says the vin (serial number) is D101266. I'm assuming they got this off the engine and left out the "M" before the "D". The engine number that is above the water pump is gone, (block was replaced). Can anyone tell me if that number is true to a M38-A1 and what year it's supposed to be. I think it's a late 53, (no hinged grill and single clamp for battery cover). Dash data plate says it a 1954 with serial #73745 with a dod of 6/54.

Lift up the passengers side seat. You should see a tag that has four screws holding it in place. If it hasn't been painted over your SN# is on that tag as well. It should read MD 73745. If the tag has paint on it. Remove the screws and use paint thinner and something to carefully scrape the paint off. This tag should match the SN# on the data plate on the dash. It should read MD 73745. Hope this helps.

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Ok, sorry for my reply telling you to look behind the seat. I just skimmed over the post.

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I usually refer to the ORD 9 and search for sheet metal and chassis features that refer to installation before and after Chassis Serial numbers. Information is kind of scanty, but sometimes I get lucky and can confirm a DOD.
I know of no official list that ties chassis and engine numbers, plus the official records are discarded at the time the Jeep leaves the Property Disposal yard due to sale or transfer to a civilian agency such as GSA. From time to time I find old forgotten 50's-70's DRMO Sales catalogs that list Chassis , DOD and USA number and put them aside only to lose track of them for a few more years.

Should the serial number on the dash data plate match the number on the data plate behind the passenger seat?

The dash and wheelhouse plate Serial Numbers should match.