I purchased this 1952 M38 when I worked in Newport, RI in 1983. Although the jeep was not cannibalized it had a frozen engine and was in desperate need of restoration. As this was to be my second M38 project. I was very familiar with the process, and the vehicle. I disassembled the vehicle down to the bare frame and sand blasted the body and major components, rebuilt the engine, transmission and transfer-case. Any corroded metal was replaced with new 18 gauge steel using a hammer welding technique to prevent distortion and produce a surface that would not require any filler. Also replaced were the wiring harness and brake system. Everything was painted in the original OD semi gloss enamel and reassembled. This was my daily ride and has gone thru 2 engine rebuilds, one for a bearing failure and one when leaded gasoline was discontinued for new vale seats. Then around 1991 until 2008 I only used the Jeep occasionally. In 2008 I did a complete tear down and repeated the restoration process again. This time I had to cutout and weld in several floor board patches and some under carriage cross braces again using the hammer welding technique, and painted with semi gloss OD green empanel and reassembled with new brake lines and other components. It is now ready for the road but I plan on keeping out of the woods and use it only occasionally as I want to keep it as preserved as possible. This Jeep is all original in detail, with only two after market items the electronic regulator and the amp meter gauge, both of which I still have original ones of. There is nothing better than an old WILLYS Jeep and being able to restore and drive one is something every Jeep lover needs to experience.
-Steven Casella
-If you have enjoyed this blog please tell a friend. We rely on people like you to make this a great place for Willys Jeep Life.
– thank you.
Like Us on Facebook.
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!
i want this