M38 CDN Bell Crank bellows seal

L84dinner · Post by **L84dinner** » Mon Aug 07, 2017 5:54 pm

I am rebuilding the bell crank on 1952 M38 CDN and noted that the original assembly set up had a bellows seal in the upper housing above the grease seal. The original seal has disintegrated. I ordered a bell crank repair kit but it did not include this component. Is this an essential component? If so, where can I get a replacement?

Many thanks,

John

4x4M38 · Post by **4x4M38** » Sat Aug 12, 2017 6:53 am

John,
I think I remember a couple of other posts on this subject that basically
said that seal was particularly important during fording, but not essential
for every day driving as long as the assembly was kept properly lubricated.

I've seen them for sale on eBay.

OKCM38CDN · Post by **OKCM38CDN** » Sat Aug 12, 2017 3:36 pm

Is this the ring that goes between the Bell crank and the frame mount???

If so get in touch with Brent Mullins in College Station... I got one from him, he had it on eBay...

Hope this helps...

4x4M38 · Post by **4x4M38** » Sat Aug 12, 2017 3:59 pm

That's what I'm reading into his request.

The trick is whether you still have the round spring that goes over it.
If the seal is missing the spring usually is also.

If you are lucky enough to still have one good for you!

Post by **wesk** » Sat Aug 12, 2017 11:01 pm

You can buy one here from Brent Mullins for $5 & $7 freight.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Jeep-Willys-M38 ... 1679100095

Plus three historical posts from our archives.
http://www.willysmjeeps.com/v2/modules. ... highlight=

http://www.willysmjeeps.com/v2/modules. ... highlight=

http://www.willysmjeeps.com/v2/modules. ... 4&start=15

L84dinner · Post by **L84dinner** » Sun Aug 13, 2017 11:47 am

Thanks all for the information. I have ordered the seal from Brent. I note my bell crank differs from the photo but followed through the threads and know this is not unique and I know what I need to do. I will post photos when complete.

Many thanks,

John

L84dinner · Post by **L84dinner** » Wed Sep 06, 2017 8:58 pm

Took a while for seal to ship from Brent and clear customs but arrived and installed on the weekend.

Seal in place.

Bell crank assembled.

Thanks all for the help.

John

Post by **wesk** » Wed Sep 06, 2017 10:58 pm

Glad it all worked out for you!

4x4M38 · Post by **4x4M38** » Thu Sep 07, 2017 6:37 am

Hi John,
Looks good!

I don't see that little spring. Brent doesn't supply it correct?

Take care,

L84dinner · Post by **L84dinner** » Thu Sep 07, 2017 8:51 pm

Brian,

There was no spring in the original assembly and Brent did not supply one.
The seal fit fairly snug and as you can see the bell crank assembly I have shields the seal from direct exposure. I think it will be OK.

John

4x4M38 · Post by **4x4M38** » Thu Sep 07, 2017 9:21 pm

Hi John,
Yes it should work just fine.

The spring seems to be missing on many vehicles.

Here is a link to information regarding the bellows seal and tension
spring. Several suggestions on how to come up with alternatives.

Take care,