Cj5 vs M38a1

I asked this once before but I am still stumped...so PLEASE give me some words of wisdom. Some items (particularly on ebay) I am interested in buying say they are for cj5 1965-1975 as well as some other cj models. but my understanding is the jeeps (m38a1 and cj5) remained virtually unaltered from 53' to 75'. if this is correct I should be ok buying these items for my 54': m38a1... Is this correct or am I being to optimistic?:? :? :? :? :? :? :? Jacob

 

Re: Cj5 vrs M38a1

you are close ...52 thru 71 will work..good luck with it !!!!!

 

Re: Cj5 vrs M38a1

There are some items that were exclusive to the M38A1, mostly as it relates to the electrical system. A few other items I believe are specific to the A1 are heavier springs, the carb, the breather, instrument cluster, split windshield, etc.

There are many parts that are interchangeable, but it depends on how fully you plan on restoring it. If you just looking to make it functional, you can probably get a better deal on the CJ parts, as the original military stuff just keeps getting more & more expensive.

 

Thanks a lot for your help!

 

CJ and Military jeeps aren't exact twins, more like first cousins. I have both.

Stuff like brakes, axles, internal engine parts, and transmission, transfer case all share a great many common parts. On the other hand, many individual parts are unique, even odd bits like the crankshaft pulley or the steering bellcrank, parking brake. Some are different but will interchange. Others won't. eBay descriptions are often unreliable.

New Old Stock military parts can indeed be expensive - particularly items like the super-heavy-duty water proof alternator, distributor, etc.

On the other hand, it is very high quality; I've never replaced anything major on my M38-A1C in twenty years. These are strong vehicles. If you start out with one that is relatively complete, I doubt you will buy many parts.

Another military advantage is there are no model changes over the years and parts are easily found, both used and NOS. One size fits all. Many sellers have well preserved government surplus stashes. Civilian models had many more variations, and consequently certain parts may be rare. But you can mix and match.

Personally I would not discourage anyone from pursuing the military jeep option. Just be prepared to learn about it's individuality and that your supply network will exist in a slightly different world than the CJ. But either one is viable.

The cool-factor is high on M38A1 and olive-drab. When you think about it, isn't Jeep's true ancestory military?

Pete