1952 Willys M38

This 1952 Willys M38-CDN Jeep is one of approximately 2,135 units assembled by Ford for the Canadian Armed Forces in the early 1950s, and it is powered by a 2.2-liter inline-four mated to a three-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The truck was refurbished during prior ownership and used as a museum display for approximately 20 years, and it was acquired by the seller in 2020. The green paintwork is contrasted by a lighter canvas top, and additional features include a fold-down windshield, body-color steel wheels, and reproduction canvas seat covers. The engine was rebuilt in 2020, and the fuel and vacuum pump was replaced in 2021. This Willys Jeep is now offered with accessories, a tool kit, historical literature, and a British Columbia registration document listing the truck as a 1952 Ford Pickup. The M38 was a military version of the contemporaneous civilian Jeep CJ-3A, and differences include a reinforced frame and suspension and a waterproof electrical system. The exterior of this example was refinished in military green with a flattening agent in the 1980s, at which time the tailgate and front fenders were replaced. Additional features consist of a Beachwood reproduction canvas soft top, hood stenciling, tie-down straps, and a jerry can affixed to the rear of the vehicle. Included in the sale are removable folding door frames, a snorkel kit, and a vintage shovel. Body-color steel wheels are mounted with Goodyear military tires, with a matching spare wheel and tire affixed out back. The seller states that the steering and suspension systems were overhauled during the 1980s refurbishment. The brake cylinders were replaced under current ownership. Dual front seats are fixed in place and wear tan reproduction Beachwood canvas covers, and a matching jump seat is fitted out back. Additional interior fittings include nomenclature plates, centrally mounted gauges, and painted steel floors. The five-digit mechanical odometer indicates 15 miles, less than 10 of which were added by the seller. Total mileage is unknown. The 2.2-liter L-134 ‘Go-Devil’ inline-four was refurbished in the 1980s, and it was rebuilt again in 2020. Work included polishing the crankshaft and replacement of the pistons and valve springs. The fuel pump was replaced in August 2021. Additional components replaced during the aforementioned refurbishment included the exhaust system, universal joints, differential bearings and seals, and transmission bearings and seals. Additional underside photos are provided in the gallery below. Included in the sale are various operating manuals and specification booklets. An article and letter documenting the truck’s use as a display by the The Osoyoos Society Museum are included in the sale and shown further in the gallery below. Spare parts and tools are also included in the sale.