M38A1 Banging When Braking

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linklaw1
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Joined: Sat Jul 18, 2020 6:00 pm

M38A1 Banging When Braking

Post by linklaw1 »

Hoping someone can point me in the right direction. If I reverse my M38A1 and stop it, when I move forward, the first time I step on the brakes I get a bang and it feels like something is moving. It only happens the first time I brake going forward after reversing. I checked my shackles and spring bushings and all appears sound and not broken, deteriorated or loose. The jeep stops straight with no pulling. Last year I replaced the shoes, hoses, wheel cylinders and master cylinder. I noticed this even before I replaced the brakes. Any tips would be appreciated.
RonD2
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Posts: 2067
Joined: Wed Oct 01, 2014 6:00 pm
Location: South Carolina, Dorchester County

Post by RonD2 »

Hi linklaw,
Welcome to the forum!

Yes, besides careful brake, suspension, and steering system inspection to check for cracked, bent, or broken components (including disassembly if necessary), some other things to check:

Broken leaf spring(s)?
Motor and transmission-transfer case mounts not loose or broken?
Engine stay cable in place and adjusted properly?
Fan not chewing the shroud or radiator?
Muffler and exhaust pipes not loose?

There's very good detailed troubleshooting procedures in the Army manual.

Let us know what you find.
Good luck!
Ron D.
1951 M38 Unknown Serial Number
1951 M100 Dunbar Kapple 01169903 dod 5-51

“The only good sports car that America ever made was the Jeep."
--- Enzo Ferrari

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