About Willys M38A1

History and Technical Specs

(1952-1971) Willys M38A1

Production Total: 101,488 (80,290 domestic / 21,198 foreign sales)

Illustration - Willys M38A1

The M38A1 was the first vehicle to feature the round fender design that would later become the distinguishing body style of the CJ-5 (part of the Universal CJ series). Produced first in 1952, following the retirement of the M38 model, the M38-A1 was re-designed as an “stand-alone” improvement, featuring round front fenders, a contoured hood, a two-piece windshield, top mounted windshield wipers, and powered by the new “Hurricane” F-Head engine and Warner T90 transmission. The M38A1 (referred to by Willys as the “MD”), like the M38, had a frame and suspension that was much stronger than its civilian sibling, the CJ-5. With reversed spring shackles, military instruments, and a 24-volt electrical system, the M38A1 was a strong military work horse that was frequently fitted with a machine gun.

"Variants of the M38A1 include the "Original" round fender M38A1, M170 (Ambulance model), M38A1"C" (Rifle variant), USMC Variant, USAF DJ Variant, Nekaf Dutch Variant, Cdn Canadian Variant, Welding M38A1 Unit, and the First Year (1954) CJ5 (Civilian)." [1]

[1] The M38A1 Restoration Site

More Useful Information about the M38:
M38A1 Data Sheet - Document provided courtesy of Michael Scoggins
Gulf Service Sheet (1945-1964) - Document provided courtesy of Michael Scoggins
Jeep Dipstick Guide - Document provided courtesy of Michael Scoggins

Willys M38A1 Photos

Andrew Bolt - 1960 M38A1

Eugene Salvo - 1953 Willys M38A1

Shila Jones - 1955 M38A1

For more photos of these and other Willys Jeep Models, visit our Willys Jeep Blog Customer Photo Album!

Willys M38A1 Specs (1952-1971):

Willys M38A1 Engines: