Grilles

Guys,

I have 2 grilles for my next project Jeep, a 57 CJ5, it will be far from a restoration, just a fun jeep, other things about it are already not "correct". One of the grilles is an M38A1 grille with blackout signals, the other is a standard cj5 grille. Both are in great shape, with the exception of rolled on paint. I was planning on using the military grille on it since it will not be a correct restoration anyway, and saving my standard grille for another that would may be correct. With that said, my question: Are the M38A1 grilles more sought after, that I should be looking to sell this grille to someone doing a military restoration, or are they fairly common? Just had a slight guilt feeling using, and most likely drilling holes in, something that might be wanted/truly needed by someone.

Thoughts??

"Z"

 

M38 or M38 A1?
M38 won't fit since it is a flat fender grill. The A1 will since the CJ5 is essentually a civi M38A1

 

Just to clarify, do you mean an M38-A1 grill? If not, the M-38 grill won't fit, it is from an older style a.k.a. CJ-2A.

 

Geez Jeff, beat me to it.... you know, we can't always be on this site, ok?

 

Yep, I mean the M38A1, sorry, was omitting the A1 (fixed it in orig post). Definitely the same shape. Just wondering If there are people out there really looking for these unmolseted in the military version or if I can rest easy and go ahead and use it. Just looking out for us jeepers in general. Any opinions?

 

You could always advertise it for sale, & if you don't get any action, then use it as you please.

 

I'd venture to say the M38A1 grilles aren't the most rare Jeep grille, but I appreciate your concern for the possibility that it is - all too many people throw away rare parts without having a second thought.

... one part that comes to mind is the 4-lug axles out of DJ3A's.

 

If you do want to sell one or the other, let me know. My '67 didn't come with a grill, so if shipping isn't cost prohibitive I might be interested.

 

Check the classified on G503-might give you some idea of the A1 grill.

 

I think the buckets for the recessed headlights in the A1 grill would be the most sought after bit.

 

Rapco sells the A1 grills NOS for $195. Knowing that, an original CJ grill is probably more valuable. The headlight door for the A1 can also be purchased NOS, and if memory serves, they are $50 apiece with the rubber gaskets. I just replaced gaskets on mine (in original package dated 1957) and they were amazing pliable compared to the crappy rubber stuff you buy now.

 

Thanks for the help guys, will probably go ahead and use the military grille for my "incorrect" project. And Johnny, sorry, am keeping the CJ Grille, because inevitably there will be another project after this one. My friend and I do have a bunch of Early CJ hoods though, all in great shape with the snorkel cover plate intact. Will post a classified once I snap some pics.

 

Thats fine Zak, I'm sure I can scrounge one somewhere. Thanks anyways. Good luck on your project and be sure to post lots of pics!