Posted: Wed Dec 16, 2015 10:26 am Post subject: Picking an M38/CJ3A
I'm looking for an M38 or CJ3A that doesn't need work and will hopefully be as trouble-free as possible. What should I be on the lookout for specifically?
This advice assumes you are very familiar with old jeeps and that you have the shop manual with you for the jeep you are looking to buy.
1-Appearance, hopefully minimal rust! Review documents and check serial numbers. Check tires for odd wear patterns.
2-Try to look where the jeep is usually left parked for long periods and see how large the oil puddles are and where they are located relative to the jeep's chassis layout.
3-Check fluid levels, gas, oil, coolant, brake fluid etc.
4-Check brakes for proper operation. Starts easily. Should crank over at 500 to 800 RPM and start within 4-5 seconds,
5-Check all four gauges for proper readings, check wipers, check horn.
6-Get out of the jeep and check all exterior lights for proper operation.
7-Runs and drives well. IE Steering smooth without more than 3" of play at the steering wheel rim, smooth braking, no odd engine noises, no excessive smoking, and no death rattle (severe oscillations of front wheels that can only be stopped by applying the brakes)(deliberately drive across pot holes or rail road tracks ), check speedometer & odometer for proper operation. Check exhaust noise level.
8-Immediately after parking the jeep open the hood and check for any new leaks. Feel the radiator top to bottom for an even temperature. Upper and lower radiator hoses should be equal in temp as well. Lay under front, rear and sides of jeep and carefully scan the belly of the jeep for any oddities. _________________ Wes K
45 MB, 51 M38, 54 M37, 66 M101A1, 60 CJ5, 76 DJ5D, 47Bantam T3-C & 5? M100
Joined: Feb 20, 2007 Posts: 606 Location: Illinois
Posted: Fri Dec 18, 2015 9:05 am Post subject:
Electrical wiring - if it is original, the insulation tends to get brittle with age and will start to crack and crumble off the wires. Patchwork replacement is only a stopgap fix, replacement of the entire electrical system will be needed. Not a difficult task but it is one more expense.
General lookout - these old jeeps many times don't get the routine maintenance they need. That means as you start to work on them you may find lack of cleaning and proper lubrication has worn out bearings and parts, seals get old and stiff, moving parts get rusty. Some of this you may not be able to "see", but you should expect based on if the vehicle looks well-kept or not.
You cannot post new topics in this forum You cannot reply to topics in this forum You cannot edit your posts in this forum You cannot delete your posts in this forum You cannot vote in polls in this forum
Forum FAQ
Search
Usergroups
Profile
Log in to check your private messages
Log in
