New-bee Just Starting Restoration Project

mike_kloppenburg · Post by **mike_kloppenburg** » Sat Apr 03, 2010 7:13 am

I got this civilized M38 about 3 weeks ago and I feel a bit daunted at the job that lies ahead. I have already started to disassemble the rust bucket and as dig deeper more rust. I was told that it had not run in over 15 years. All of the wiring has dry rotted and frayed so I don't think I can salvage any of that. I have started to blast some of the small parts that I can fit in the blasting cabinet at work. I was even more discouraged when I found several holes in the gas tank. I think the only good thing I have found so far is I can freely turn the motor by hand.

Jim · Post by **Jim** » Sat Apr 03, 2010 9:05 am

You can get a data plate backing plate to cover the
big hole in the dash, and repro data plates from several
of the suppliers. Try Midwest Military.

Jim in Darkest Arkansas

53a1 · Post by **53a1** » Sat Apr 03, 2010 9:35 am

Before you tear it apart make sure you have one of the two; tools, skills & time or lots of money.

mike_kloppenburg · Post by **mike_kloppenburg** » Sat Apr 03, 2010 9:57 am

I have a little skills and some money, but I have a great set of tools. I just got the fenders off as they had been welded to the steps and and part of the cowl. Next I hope to have the body off.

weasel · Post by **weasel** » Sat Apr 03, 2010 1:41 pm

Take your time and enjoy

Scott21 · Post by **Scott21** » Sat Apr 03, 2010 1:57 pm

Good luck. Let the fun begin!

sonny · Post by **sonny** » Sat Apr 03, 2010 8:43 pm

No doubt you have alot of work to do but the finished product will give you enormous pride in your effort and in the fact that you saved another piece of history - Sonny

FrankUSMC · Post by **FrankUSMC** » Sun Apr 04, 2010 2:13 pm

You are off to a good start!! Just stay on it, and before you know it you will be looking at bigger toys.....M35s, armore, 5 tons....
If you make a run to the beach, stop in, I think I still have some M38 parts around here.
One of the few, Frank USMC RET