m38a1 and 79 postal jeep

i have a 79 postal jeep with 258 etc. I just bought a 1954 m38A1. The m38 is in real good shape but no motor. I am thinking about combining the two. M38 a1 has dana 44 rear end with a locker. 18 transfer case with over drive. It has a closed knuckle dana 30 front anxle. the postal has 44 rear end and I put a 30 axle open knuckle with a locker in the front. My question is will the locker and gears interchange in the 44? also will the 30 axle ring and pinion the same (besides ratio"s). Since the 258 is rebuilt and made for the postal would it best to stay that way or go to the buick v6. I assume the engines are just my choice!?

 

the locker and gears will interchange between the 44's as long as the axle splines are the same, which I dought. The postal 44 is centered. Other than that, it isn't real clear what you are asking. Are you sure the m38 closed knuckle front axle is a model 30??

JB

 

I'm trying to come up with one jeep combining the two. I'm not sure that the older front axle is a 30, I was told that it was. How can you tell the difference between the two axles. also the older 44 has tapered axles if that will tell you anymore about combining new and old.

 

the 54 m38 would have a model 25 front axle and 10 spline axles ib the 44.The '79 centered 44 would have 30 spline axles. Does the postal jeep already have a T-case?? If you intend to use the t-case from the m38, the centered rear axle won't work.

Sounds like you are determined to use that 258.

JB

 

Hi, if you have a M38A1 i wonder if you could do me a big favour? I need a photo and size measurements on the end of the top bows, the bit that fits the brackets on the jeep when the roof is up. I have a military CJ5 with WWII fittings for the top bows and the cylindrical bow ends, i want to adapt it as it does not work for putting roof up and down, it all gets coughtup on the rear end tyre airial etc. To buy a new set of bows would be expensive as i have to import form USA or Holland to UK.

This means making and welding on the right bits at the end of the bows. God luck with your project.

 

believe the gears wil interchange. carriers are different between the tapered and flanged alxes. Also don't forget the carrier break of 3.73 down and 3.92 up.