Not sure if this is appropriate for "Tech Talk" section but not sure where else to ask it here.

Going to check this out tomorrow. Supposedly a '52 M38 with orig drivetrain, excellent frame, and original body with some patching. Any input on specific things to check aside from what would normally be found on a 3A? What about value?

http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/2908839232.html

Thanks,
Ryan

Thing looks pretty good in the pictures.  Some things I can see in the photos that might reduce it's value if you intend on bringing it back to M38 Glory.   Bumper, wheels, tires, running lights.  Looks like a Willys stamped hood, and the lower ax indent may have been patched.  All of these can be fixed if you want to, although, hoods, wheels and tires aren't cheap.

Here is a side by side comparison of the 3A and M38.

http://www.cj3a.info/cj3a/m38cj3a.html

I think the most important things are the difficult or pricey stuff.  ie: everything under the hood, the drive train and sheet metal condition.  

$3,200.00 should get you a good runner.  In other words, if you don't want to do anything to it, you wouldn't have to.  

Is it still 24v or converted to 12v?  Is it still waterproof? Are the data plates still on it? Tail gate...reinforcements for gas can and tire mount?   Front frame horn should be boxed in if frame is original.  Should have a glove box and removable gauge cluster panel if the tub is original.  Also, parking brake is on the opposite side of the steering wheel.

Write down everything you can find with a number on it including the engine serial #s, and casting if possible.   Then go to the 503 or WillysMJeeps and do some quick research on what you find.  Or research engine #s tonight, bring this info with you and see if you have something special.

I'm beginning to ramble.  I just get excited when a Willys is about to be resqued.

Tim    

Ryan,

I'm looking forward to your follow up post. I really like M38s.  There aren't many of them out there.

Tim

BMIC wrote on 03/21/12 at 11:17:55:


BMIC - I think in the substance abuse world you would be considered an "Enabler". The wife is out of the country for most of next month. If the price is right and I can coordinate delivery during the time she is gone, I may be able to just play it off like..."What new Jeep, honey?...that one has always been here, I guess you just never noticed....".

I've also made an investment in a comfortable couch... in case I end up living there for an extended period.

Well no answer from the seller at the predetermined time to meet up. I guess I won't have to worry about sleeping on the couch quite yet.