M38 tailgate

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shotgun
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M38 tailgate

Post by shotgun »

I need help with my M38 tailgate. For some reason the spear tire brace has been cut off my tailgate. I need to know a few measurements before I can build the brace. I need to know the overall size of the raised channel, depth and width. What is the distance between the two channels? The two ears on each side I need the width. If someone could measure an original M38 tailgate I would appreciate.
Thanks
Mark
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Bretto
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Post by Bretto »

Check out WESK's photos. Kudos to Wes.
http://www.willysmjeeps.com/v2/modules. ... _album.php
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4x4M38
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M38 tailgate replacement

Post by 4x4M38 »

So this may be another silly question.

I can't tell looking at ANY of the sites with OMIX-ADA / MD Juan replacement tailgates whether they come with the inside reinforcements for the fuel can and spare tire racks.

Does anyone know?

I know, they are lighter, and have issues re: a takeoff, but they are easier to find.

Unless someone has an original in their shop they are using for a workbench that needs a new home.

Otherwise, I've seen Wes' brace data, but I don't see any dimensions or vertical measurements ie., at right angles to the tailgate for the braces.

Also, other than cutting someone else's tailgate latches off their jeep, can they be fabricated and can someone measure then as well?

Many thanks,
Brian
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jimm
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Re: M38 tailgate replacement

Post by jimm »

4x4M38 wrote: Otherwise, I've seen Wes' brace data, but I don't see any dimensions or vertical measurements ie., at right angles to the tailgate for the braces.
I can get you that measurement off mine. I think it may be the same as that for the gas can braces, 3/8" as shown in photo 18 of 107 in Wes' album, but I'll check.
4x4M38 wrote: Also, other than cutting someone else's tailgate latches off their jeep, can they be fabricated and can someone measure then as well?
Not sure what you mean by "latches" - the M38 tailgate has the same tabs as the civvy 'gate, they were just bolted shut instead of secured by chains. Are you missing those tabs completely?
Jim McKim
1952 M38 son-father project
Slowly turning rusty parts into OD parts
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4x4M38
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Post by 4x4M38 »

Yep,
Babaloo torched mine off and left some nasty holes in the rear where they go.

Saw one for sale on Ebay with what appears to be the missing sheetmetal,
but they guy wants almost 50 bucks for just the one.
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