060: Don Edwards 1953 M38A1
I have got most of the jeep in original shape except for the drive train. The guy I bought it off of put a Buick V6 in it and I believe he changed the front and rear differentials. It also came with the Borg Warner overdrive. I had to install a T-18 4 speed transmission because I kept going through the 3 speeds.
I bought the jeep in 2003 from a man in San Jose. I retired 3 years ago so I had time to start the restoration this last summer. Still have to do the electrical and change the exhaust. Project is dedicated to the members of my family that served this great country. My grandfather, army WWII, my dad, Navy WWII, myself, Air Force Viet Nam, and my daughter, Army Iraq. Thanks all for your dedicated service.
-Don Edwards
Have Willys Jeep photos? Submit them to our blog webmaster.
Get Connected. Stay Inspired. Build Your Willys.
[…] Kaiser Willys Jeep of the Week: 060 […]
exhaust needs to be rerouted, should be coming out right rear not in front of left front tire. Lots of work done there
exhaust needs to be rerouted, goes out the right rear side
Looks awesome Don. I am restoring a ’51 M38. Trying to make it look original but also making drive train upgrades such as a Buick 252, Saturn overdrive, and gears changed from 5:38 to 4:88. Hope I don’t have the transmission problems you’ve had. Where did you get your top? It looks great.
Wayne
Nice! I’m restoring a ’52 M38A1 and it’s great to see that yours came out very nice…Thanks
Why is the tail pipe out the side?
Don and Charles, I have a ‘ 54 M38A1. I served as an Infantry Officer, Vietnam in 71-72 and Middle East. It’s a great vehicle. Good Luck fellow veterans.
Excellent job, Don! Welcome home, brother. My 56 willys is a clone of M38A1 for the same reasons. Nam in 69,70, 71 and proud to be a vet!!!