1948 CJ3A ?

[smittykid]

Hi gang, have not posed any questions lately. �Anyway, I'm looking at another 3A. �The guy says it's registered a 48. �I know they started production of th 3A in the Fall of 48-but were the first ones 48's or 49's? �The windshield appears to be from an M38 as the vent has the 2 straps on the outside & no hinge on the inside. Did the early 3A's have that type of windshield or is this in fact an M38 windshield? �Also, the guy Rhino lined the interior. �How much does that effect the value? �Personally I don't like the stuff in a Jeep. �He's asking $7000. �I have pics he emailed me. I still can't figure out how to post pics. It looks nice-but I know there are a few incorrect items. �Like a pair miniture 49 Merc. police cars on the hood used for the windshield props in lieu of wooden blocks.
 ï¿½ � Any help or thoughts would be appreciated. �Happy New Year & thanks as always !
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[Carls_jeep]

That seems a little high for a butchered CJ3 to me but it depends on if you like it. At $7000 it would have to be a pristine restoration before I would even consider it along with a lot of documentation of parts installed and photo's of the restoration.

I would go over it with a fine tooth comb too.

[Bob W]

CJ-3A production got off to a slow start late in 1948. My research indicates that only 309 CJ-3A were made in 1948. The 1949 model year had already begun so these Jeeps would have been 1949s, just like the CJ-2As that were still being made. Sounds like it has an M38 windshield frame.

[rocketeer]

In my opinion the worst thing anyone can do to a jeep is Rhino-line it. For one thing, as a buyer you have no idea what that Rhino-line might be hiding; damage, rust, patches, etc.. More importantly, it makes it almost impossible to repair any damage that might occur. A crack in the sheetmetal might occur, for instance, that needs to be welded up. That means the Rhino would have to be removed around the area of the crack. Extremely difficult, if not almost impossible, to do. Collision damage would be even worse. I've spoken with a number of people who have had to deal with it and they refuse to touch it anymore.

Frankly I wouldn't give a $1000 for it no matter how nice it appears to be. For $7000 you can find a real nice restoration. Just my $.02.

Larry

[calvinhunt]

I've seen many many desirable old flatties on eBay and elsewhere for less than $7,000.  Of course they are usually some distance away.  Just a thought that you may want to look around a bit before spending that kind of money.  

[macrisel]

I've gotta agree with Larry on the Rhino lining.  The good thing about the stuff:  it's is nearly indestructible.  The bad thing about the stuff:  it's nearly indestructible.  If you EVER have to repair anything on the tub, your vocabulary will grow to new heights.

Also, if you ever happen to crack the lining it becomes a breeding ground for rust to develop underneath.  While I like the stuff for truck beds, the bed of a 60+ year old jeep might be a different story.  Just depends on what your use is going to be.

[smittykid]

Thanks for your input guys.  I was an insurance agent for over 36 years.  And I agree 100% about rhino liner.  It is an incredible pain to deal with in a collision situation.  I'm going to call the guy tonight and get the serial #.  I'm starting to think this Jeep may very well be a CJ2A with an M38 windshield.  My after retirement rotundness(fat gut) fits much better behind the wheel of a 3A.  You guys are the best !!

                                   Smitty