m38 and m38a1 axles/drivetrain question

oldfordkid · Post by **oldfordkid** » Thu Feb 13, 2014 5:17 pm

A while back I parted out a nice but disassembled 1952 M38A1. I still have the axles, transmission, transfer case, driveshafts, steering column and leaf springs. I found a 1952 M38 frame and body tub. I know the frames themselves are different, but I'm not sure about the rest of the components. Is the M38A1 stuff I have the same as m38 since it's the same year? Can I use the parts I have to put under it and restore it? Thanks--Scott

gardaws · Post by **gardaws** » Thu Feb 13, 2014 6:30 pm

Where did you get the frame and tub? I was looking at one in Lincoln Neb. was wondering if it was sold. Thanks

Post by **wesk** » Fri Feb 14, 2014 12:48 am

All your parts can be made to function the M38. The steering gear variable ratio is different.
M38A1: 19-17-19:1 vs M38 14-12-14:1

The brakes are different, and the front drive shaft on the A1 is about an inch longer.

The springs will be a problem. The front of the m38A1 had the shackles reversed, the leaf stacks are much stiffer due to more leafs for the A1 and their eye to eye lengths differ. You would probably have to experiment with design king pin inclination angles if you try the installation with your A1 springs.

M38A1 front:
12 leaves
38 3/8" eye to eye
M38A1 rear:
13 leaves
44 3/4" eye to eye

M38 Front:
10 leaves
36 1/4" eye to eye
M38 Rear:
11 leaves
42" eye to eye

oldfordkid · Post by **oldfordkid** » Fri Feb 14, 2014 10:15 pm

Wes thank you very much for the detailed information. It is exactly what I needed to know, and I really appreciate it! Thanks--Scott