Where to start learning?

1952 - 1968, M38A1, M170, questions, discussions, regarding anything related to the M38a1 series.
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sam C.
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Where to start learning?

Post by sam C. » Wed Oct 04, 2017 7:59 am

I'm thinking that some day I may want an M38a1. I already have a windshield for an M38a1C, so my project has begun. :D
Seriously, I'd like to start learning about the M38a1 and what to look for. Data Plate locations, engine serial numbers and casting numbers, differences between the M38a1 and a CJ5, what to look for to ensure a correct body, frame, axles, wiring etc.
Where to begin?
Sam


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rondo
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Re: Where to start learning?

Post by rondo » Wed Oct 04, 2017 8:16 am

having just jumped into the m38a1 myself, i'd recommend going to m38a1.com to start. there isn't as much info out there as there is about the ww2 jeep. and this board isn't too active so it can be frustrating.

Note the M38A1C body has some differences from the M38A1 so don't just grab the first M38A1 body you can find.

I've found there is different stencils and star placements between the 50s and 60s. Determine what year your jeep will represent.

Ben Dover is a great wealth of knowledge in this jeep. pay attention to his posts.

on some jeeps the hood registration number starts with 2A. Some start with 20 (depending on the year). some had 8 digit hood numbers others had 9. I would resist the advice of putting your serial number on the hood as some recommend. that looks tacky and is a clear sign of someone who isn't trying to be historically accurate in any way.

the year of your jeep that you want to represent is critical in my mind. Jeeps of the 60s had quite a few visual differences than those of the Korean war.

have fun
42 GPW; 41WC6
"moral courage is the most valuable and usually the most absent characteristic in men"

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17thAirborne
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Re: Where to start learning?

Post by 17thAirborne » Wed Oct 04, 2017 8:22 am

misread your post sorry. :oops:


Good luck
Oz

Feb 43 GPW 98532 USA 20206257
Oct 70 Land Rover Series 2a 25334079G NZ16GF36
http://gpw.castraponere.com/ (My Restoration Page)

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spillmk1
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Re: Where to start learning?

Post by spillmk1 » Wed Oct 04, 2017 8:40 am

Start here....111 pages of great info.

Then here:
http://www.willysmjeeps.com/v2/modules. ... wforum&f=3
142 more pages of great info.

And while you are reading all that, get all the technical manuals and read through those.

Most every issue you'll have....has already been had by somebody else.
Use the knowledge on these boards and your life will be much easier with your new purchase!!

Have fun!!

Keith
1955 M38A1 Jeep
1953 M100 Trailer
1941 White M2A1 Half Track

sam C.
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Re: Where to start learning?

Post by sam C. » Wed Oct 04, 2017 9:06 am

Thanks guys!!! I'll start researching now. I have an MB project that I'm about to wrap up (been saying that forever) and will have to decide my next course of action. This will allow me to start learning, in case something falls into my lap. I'll at least have a little knowledge to work with.

Sam


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