Take note that my M38 is a '51.
I assume that these markings on the tcase would suggest it had a build date of April/1958? Or does it mean nothing of the sort? I suppose it could of came off something else and had the ebrake swapped over. What military vehicle would of used an 18 case after '58? Didnt the M38a1 only go to '57? The markings are over green paint so I'm guessing it was of military issue.
I would bet that is a rebuild date with that being painted on.
Are there any numbers cast into the side of the tranny? Also clean it up and look for stamped numbers on the transfer housing where it mates up with the transmission.
Sometimes you will find dates and other times not.
