~ Sent to us by Nate Atkins
1952 Willys M38. Buick dauntless V6 swap with T90 transmission still, aluminum radiator. New aftermarket body from Kaiser Willys (along with most parts I didn’t have or were too damaged). Original seat frames, original fenders and grill. I acquired this in rough state 12 years ago when I was about 17. Figured I could restore it before I graduated high school. 12 years later I finally finished it! Many thanks to everyone at Kaiser for the support and parts knowledge.
It originally came from an Army Surplus and was used to plow sidewalks and marked chalk on the track at the schools in Williamston, MI, which is one town north of me. After it was retired, it was given to a school employee who later retired and passed it on to my grandfather in the 1970s or 1980s. It stayed with my grandfather until 2012 when I received it to restore.
- Nate Atkins Kaiser Willys Jeep Blog Story – If you would like to share your Willys Jeep Story please send us a line. We’d love to meet your Jeep.
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Looking for, Willys Jeep Parts, Willys Jeep replacement parts, Willys Jeep body parts and much more for your 1941-1971 Willys vehicle, you have come to the right place!
Absolutely beautiful build and a beautiful family! I have a 1952 M38 that I am just beginning to build. I am going to use yours as a guide, I like the simplicity of the stars without all the other stencils all over the Jeep.
Excellent work. Now you can certainly show it off.
I’m another 52 M-38 owner.
One small detail. The “old” picture has it correct. The new photos show an amber reflector at the side ‘rear.’ Every state I know of and I believe the Feds require a “red” reflector at the rear (side) of vehicle/trailer and if they require a “front” (side) reflector, the front must be amber. Beautiful restore. Congratulations.
You’ve done a magnificent job. Not only with the M38, but also a great family. Witnessing amazing stories like yours of hard work, dedication and commitment has also inspired me to buy and build an M38. Since March of last year have been working on a M38 here at home. I am an older mechanic, and much like you, work with my son restoring the jeep. Thanks to you and countless others at Kaiser Willys, this blog and the whole Jeep community, we are able to spend quality time with friends, family and loved ones.