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MC53262 was first M38 serial with the new complete water proofing system which includes the sealed 6 bolt inspection plate on the bell housing.

MC53261 was the last old style water proofing with the 2 bolt inspection plate on the bell housing.

There were quite a few more changes at this serial break in the water proofing system as well.

If you ordered a replacement engine from Army supply you got just an engine. No bell housing. If you ordered a built up powerplant assembly you got the engine, bell, tranny and transfer.

When you made your order you would have listed the jeep's serial the engine or powerplant was requested for and the supply system would determine weather before or after that serial break to get you the correct engine or powerplant. You still had the option if the unit you needed was out of stock you could waive the serial break and accept the other unit.

This is how we end up with all these M38 jig saw puzzles. And I haven't even mentioned civilian owners that modify as well.

45auto wrote: If you have the oil pump off, look for a date code. It will look something like: 3 - 28 D Which by comparing to other engines, would be March 28th 1952. If you do find a date code, please pass it along.

Hi Harold/45auto,
Here is what I found......
still learning how to do the photo thing.... click on the link below.

Don/ Naugha

http://www.willysmjeeps.com/v2/modules. ... _photo.php

Mike_B wrote: The bell housing looks to be the correct waterproof type with the wrong hand hole cover, it should be a 6-bolt non-vented type.

Mike B

Pulled the bell housing and removed the plate.... yup, six holes.

Hi Don,
Do yourself a big favor. Since you have the head off be sure and find and install the correct factory engine lift bracket. You may have to replace three studs for the longer ones required for the bracket.

You may never need to pull your engine again. But deciding to install the bracket long after everything is back together is a pain.

However, pulling the engine and/or entire powertrain is incredibly easier with the proper bracket installed.

Just my two cents.

4x4M38 wrote:Hi Don,
Do yourself a big favor. Since you have the head off be sure and find and install the correct factory engine lift bracket.

I have a lift bracket in the spare parts pile.
Let’s try my outside link (Google Photos) again.
I made some permissions adjustments that hopefully will take you there.
Let me know if it works.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/FEDfCrWhwqHss52s7

Thanks, Don