CJ-5 or M38A1??How do I ID a military jeep?

[Heliarc]

Hi guys,



I just purchased a 1963 Willys.Of course the past owner says it was military.That wasn't the selling point for me, only a bonus.I'm just interested in a good off road vehichle that I can have a good time restoring.What I need to know is if it was really military or not.



It has a small removable section on the passenger side of the hood where a snorkel would go through.On the passenger side of the tub in front of the "doorway" is a (approx) 7-8" circular hole where something went.underneath where the passenger seat was is a toolbox or compartment.On the underside there are a few coats of olive drab.I think it was only a 12 volt system but I can't be sure since the generator/alternator is missing.It's on 16 inch wheels right now but I dont think that means much.



I have the serial number off of the plate on the driver side of the engine compartment...



57548...153619



I'd like to know whether or not this is a CJ-5 or a military jeep so I know which scheme to go with.I think it would be kind of fakish to put military accesories on a civvy jeep.Either way I'm going to have some fun with this but I want it to be right.

[blackZZR]

does it have a split window with wipers on the top?
the cut out on the hood is common on both M38a1s and cj5s, they are the same jeep with a few changes for the civialain market. infact the m38a1 came out before the cj5
I would need a few more pics to tell
however the frond window will be a big factor
what engine does it have?
one more thing, in 65 Kiaser stated putting the words kiaser jeep on the universal. is this stamped into the steel?

[jermy01]

idk if the cj5's had the "door" under the passenger seat or not, but i believe that was for a gun stand to hook up to. i almost bought a m38-a1 but did not quite have to money, i was pissed, cool jeeps.

according to this website.....it would be a cj5 tho
http://www.geocities.com/xj88driver/serialnumbers.htm

57 - cj models
5 - CJ5; Cowl & Windshield (SW, SD, & Truck)
4 - 4-134 F-head
8 - 4X4
with the rest being the serial numbers

[Heliarc]

This issue has been resolved.On the M38A1 the spring shackles are at the rear of the front springs.CJ-5 has them in the front.On the tub you'll have no tailgate.Also on a CJ-5 under seat tool box there will be a Jeep logo stamped into the metal, not on the M38A1 though.For the front end on an M38A1 the headlights will be recessed.

Hope this will help someone.