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Engine overhaul in Phoenix Az.
Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2021 5:46 pm
by Thebuff
Hello all,
I'm new here. I have a '52 M38A1 4-134L
Does anyone know of a reputable overhaul mechanic with experience in the Phoenix Az area?
Dont know the extent of problems. It was running good and then the oil pressure dropped to nothing and started knocking. I'm thinking the oil pump gave up, but I haven't pulled the engine yet, so I'm not sure.
Thanks for any help.
Glenn
Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2021 6:22 pm
by RonD2
Hi Buff,
Welcome !
The M38A1 came stock with the F-head 134cu.in. motor.
The L-head 134cu.in. motor (a.k.a. "Go-Devil") was in the M38, CJ3A, CJ-2A, and the WW2 MB/GPW's.
When you say 4-134L I see Go-Devil. Is that really what you have or is it the F-head motor? The Go-Devil is a true flat head (valve cover on the side of the block), the F has a valve cover on top. Can't miss it.
Got to be some old-school shops in Phoenix. Have you looked up any local classic jeep car clubs for pointers?
A quick search turned up these guys
https://thejeepfarm.com/
Good luck!
Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2021 6:44 pm
by RonD2
Hi Glenn,
Sometime you should ask Wes what the nick-name "Buff" means to him.....he's a sentimental old B-52 Stratofortress mechanic.
And we love him!
Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2021 7:36 pm
by Thebuff
Thank you Ron D. Yes you are correct, it's actually a 4 134F. I messed up. Anyway. I will call the jeep farm tomorrow.
As for the buff name, I collect buffalo stuff. I'm originally from Kansas so buffalo are home for me. In fact my brother raised one. I have a steel cut out of a white buffalo on the grill

Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2021 7:40 pm
by RonD2
No worries Glenn. I hope you get 'er fixed up ok.
I've been meaning to try a Buffalo (or should I say Bison?) steak. Never had one, heard they're delicious. Bucket list thing. While I still have the teeth anyway....
Post us some photos of your jeep!
By the way, a few good searches of this website will get you a pretty darn good checklist of stuff to ask and talk to your shop about when working on these old vintage motors.........caveat emptor.
Good luck!
Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2021 9:10 pm
by Kendall
What part of Kansas are you from? I'm in Wichita.
Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2021 9:26 pm
by Thebuff
Ron D
Yes you need to try one. More lean than beef. But it really don't have a wild taste. I got lucky. There is a Bison farm, meat place about 5 miles from my home now. They make excellent pot roast also.
I will try to post pics when I figure out how to do it on here.
Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2021 10:08 pm
by Thebuff
Kendall,
I grew up in Russell Ks. I have family all over Kansas My Mother in law and sister in laws family live in Wichita. Then I also have a few cousins living there also.
Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2021 11:01 pm
by wesk
Kendall,
What leads you to believe the oil pump is the culprit?