willysmjeeps.com

I will be building a USMC M38A1. Does anyone have pictures that they can post of the rear bumper? Does it mount to the frame instead of the rear cross member? Are these bumpers easy to fabricate?

Thanks,

Dave

Hey Dave.

I'll take a picture of mine. I'm trying to remember but I think basically it goes over the regular bumper and bolts together using the normal lifting ring bolt holes. The lift rings are relocated on the ends.

Wes has a document that show all this.

It would be easy to fabricate something similar but the original has bends that would require a huge press brake. If you had the time you could make something that looks close with a band saw & welder.

Is Wes' document in the "downloads" section? Also, did you get my PM about the rear cross member?

I am probably going to go back down to Joann's place for some parts for the A1. I'll look for your lifting shackle while I am down there.

The new re-inforcement sections are installed inside/forward of the original rear cross member which stays in it's original position.

metal thickness = .200

Thanks guys. That's what I was looking for.

You should also know that longer bolts will be required due to increased metal thickness. I recently purchased a NOS bumper that includes the front and rear lifting shackles, which are also larger, the mounting pins and the bolt kit. All packaging was dated 50's and 60's. Got it from Surplus City and after looking at all that was involved, I would not spend the time trying to do this to save a buck. This bumper is heavy metal and then you have to find the shackles and bolts. I recall the price was $179.00 plus shipping. As usual, there were pallets of these items left over after the military discontinued use.

If you have the shackles and reinforcements then all you need is the longer hardware and each bit is listed in the list I posted above. Just carry the standard parts list to the hardware store.

I need to get a rear cross member first.

That rear cross member is a PITA

By the way guys Ron F at G503 Jeep Parts has the USMC kits in stock.