1. Registration trouble? Please use the "Contact Us" link at the bottom right corner of the page and your issue will be resolved.
    Dismiss Notice

1952 M38

Discussion in 'Flat Fender Tech' started by Kaiser Jeep Guy, Apr 11, 2024.

  1. Kaiser Jeep Guy

    Kaiser Jeep Guy New Member

    Hello everyone. This is what my M38 looked like when I got it: IMG_8408.jpeg


    This is how it looks today:
    IMG_3158.jpeg

    I had it listed for sale recently due to problems with the front axle- some pretty serious clunking noises in 2 and 4wd.

    After dealing with spammers, scammers and low ballers, I’ve decided to tackle an axle upgrade and just keep her.
     
    Twin2, 52M38-73CJ5, vtxtasy and 5 others like this.
  2. 52M38-73CJ5

    52M38-73CJ5 Member

    Sharp looking jeep you have.

    Good to see the military back in it.

    Here is a little before and after of mine.

    Axles are cheap you might just pick up another for less than a ring and pinion

    M38 small.jpg M38 small3.jpg
     
  3. jeepdaddy2000

    jeepdaddy2000 Active Member

    I would start with the front driveline. You may get lucky and have something simple, like a bad u joint or slip joint.
     
  4. Kaiser Jeep Guy

    Kaiser Jeep Guy New Member

    Thanks guys- the driveline is on my priority list- at the top.

    when she’s in 4wd it makes a terrible racket on the steep hills down, but not while going up them.
     
    Ol Fogie likes this.
  5. PeteL

    PeteL If it wasn't for physics, and law enforcement... 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    That pattern can possible reflect issues with the differential ring and pinion gear.
     
    Ol Fogie likes this.
  6. jeepdaddy2000

    jeepdaddy2000 Active Member

    Pull the front driveline and inspect the U joints and slip joint.
    Grab the diff yoke and attempt to move it. Rotational slack, vertical movement, grinding, or in and out motion indicates a pinion bearing issue.
    Drop the cover and inspect the gears
    Unlock the hubs and rotate the input yoke feeling fro any grinding
     
    Ol Fogie likes this.