willysmjeeps.com

Yes, I understand about the engine and body numbers not matching.

So, given the battery box has the 8 holes in the tub and the frame rails match your early M38a1 photo, do you still think it's a late 53 or newer unit?

I looked through different photos of grills and found two types for the a1; hinged and non-hinged with a center bolt. It was confusing as to how to use that for dating the body. Have I missed something?

Thanks for the helpful info - especially the work you've done to annotate your photos. They are very helpful.

It looks like you'll have to live with the year on your title.

The tub is 52/53 early
The frame is 52/53 early
The grill is 53 late & up
One fender is pre-54
One fender is post 54

I based my first guess on year as late 53 on the available evidence initially presented being only the Grill. With your answers to my later questions it is a mix or mongrel of various years. There is no way to establish which parts are original with which parts. The jeep may just be an assembly of parts brought together from salvage piles with the two largest items being 52/53 early. I have built several jeeps from spare salvage and new parts.

Thanks, again....

wesk wrote:it is a mix or mongrel.

Hey Steve, the best dog I ever knew was a Heinz 57 Mutt!!

We have one dog people always says is cute and want to
know what kind she is.

The wife replies,"She's a salad bowl dog. A little bit of this
and a little bit of that!"