Should I go for a M38A1 or M606?

linx310 · Post by **linx310** » Mon Jul 06, 2009 11:45 am

Let me introduce myself, I am a 26 old military vehicle nut with out a military vehicle. I don’t see many people my age interested in these vehicles so I feel like a young one in a sea of wise old guys over twice my age so I am hoping you guys can help me out in the spirit of keeping this hobby alive.

What I am looking for is either a M38A1 or a similar version of this vehicle to use as a recreational driver (2-4 times a week). I work less then a mile from my home and I feel that not only will this vehicle fill a desire I have had since I was child to own one, but also cheer up business in our office.

I work in the medical field and we see tons of veterans every day. They love it when I can relate to the equipment they used because a lot of people from my generation seem to sadly not care. So I know having one of these parked out front consistently would generate lots of smiles.

Well back to the topic at hand. What I am looking for is a M38A1 that is running and needs little work aside from minor cosmetic issues. An older restoration would be ideal. I am not to particular about the vehicle being 100% correct or authentic. A different motor, non matching numbers, or a civilian version of the vehicle that looks like the military one would be fine so long as its reliable.

Does a $5,000 budget seem like a good starting budget to obtain a running vehicle with out any huge issues? I am not looking for a pristine 100% correct vehicle.

Would putting together a M606 (CJ3B version) be a little cheaper the an M38A1 since its based on the civilian version?

I live in San Marcos Texas and understand that Austin has a big MVPA group so I am hoping if it needs any work I might meet some one there that has a garage and can help me.

MODIFIED · Post by **MODIFIED** » Mon Jul 06, 2009 4:41 pm

http://www.willysmjeeps.com/v2/modules. ... pic&t=3126

Post by **wesk** » Tue Jul 07, 2009 1:37 am

I'd go with the A1. I owned one of each and each was for several years. The M38A1 was a lot nicer riding jeep.

TomM · Post by **TomM** » Tue Jul 07, 2009 6:59 am

The M38A1 is much more plentyful as far as jeeps and parts go. The A1 also shares a lot of common parts with its CJ5 cousin which makes the supply of parts even more common and less expensive.
There dont seem to be many M606 out there on the market and when they appear they seem to be more expensive than the A1.
Tom

Niclas · Post by **Niclas** » Wed Jul 08, 2009 8:08 am

Hi

Go for the M606

dont follow the main stream

ohh did I say I have a CJ3B/M606

/Niclas

Deino · Post by **Deino** » Wed Jul 08, 2009 11:31 am

Hello, linx310. I can relate to the "young" part of your post. I'm 23 and just bought my first military vehicle. It is an M38A1, 1952 year model. I don't have it yet...I pick it up tomorrow, so I can't really tell you much about it yet. However, my dad's had a '52 M38 (MC) for about a year now, and we've been restoring it together and it's been a blast. It's not a comfortable ride, no, but it's a heck of a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to beginning work on my A1.

With a $5000 budget, you should be able to find a mostly complete (if not *completely* complete) M38A1 that runs well within your price range. I spent about 6 months trying to find that "perfect" one, but I'm really, really picky. What I've found is a rust-free, complete (minus the top canvas) jeep that needs a little bit of engine work. It's still 24v, still OD green with military markings, and with original tires (yikes!).

Personally, I think what model you get is entirely up to you and your preferences. All that really matters is that you are happy with your choice. You'll be preserving history no matter which way you go. I chose to get an M38A1 because I own a rust-bucket CJ-5 and really like the styling but wanted something military.

Best of luck to you!

Post by **wesk** » Thu Jul 09, 2009 11:57 am

When using you persoanls needs as a decision make be sure to look at your persoal size. If you are 6 foot or taller or have a 38" waist or larges then the flat fender jeeps are too tight a fit between you and the steering wheel and your head and the top of the windshield. The M38A1, CJ5, CJ6, M170 and M151/718 series are the way for the big guys to go.