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Steering Box Swapout?

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2011 12:36 pm
by Nuketroop
Bubba had a "custom dashboard" on my 53 M38A1 when I got it. In order to make it work, he cut about 6" out of the jacket tube and shaft and welded it back together.

As a result, when I installed the original dash, the wheel rubbed against my thighs and made clutching/Braking interesting.

So off comes the steering box with shaft and all. The inside of the original box was filled with bearing/axle grease YUCK!

I have a steering box with an un-cut shaft/jacket tube from either a CJ2 or CJ3.

Will the older unit work until I find a replacement shaft/jacket for my M38A1?

I want to use the complete unit from the older Willy's until I rebuild my original. I can not swap parts as the shaft is shorter inside the box on the CJ2/3.

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2011 10:17 pm
by wesk
The 3A unit will fit. The ratio is different. Only a serious issue if operating on the highway at speeds over 45. John at Midwest Military has Army surplus overhauled M38A1 steering gear assemblies.