52 M38A1 registration number

[randog]

I have a M38a1 that I would like to put a regestration number on, I have read the threads on this but need to know what the first numbers would be. My plate number is 15305, any help would be appreciated

[wesk]

The first numbers for all light scout cars is 2xxxxxx. In the previous posts I have mentioned that and with your serial number known to me I can usually give you a good third number. For MD15305 209XXXXX so a good example of a proper devised registration number would be 20915305.

[randog]

Thanks Wes, another ? which side of the bumper does the bumper number go on

[wesk]

That depends on what year, what service, what location or unit, and which Military regulation applies. Start by asking yourself these questions:

1-Factory resto or motor pool class resto? (Factory unit had less than 4 markings.)

2-What branch of service?

3-What period in time if not a factory class resto?

4-What military unit?

5-At what location was the jeep to be at during this period?

6-Which military regulation will apply?

Then download the common regs for the period that most M38's and M38A1's/M170 series jeeps served.

For the Army:

AR850-5 from 1945 thru about 54
http://jeepdraw.com/images/AR-850-5.pdf

TB746-93-1 from about 1960 (1955 also) thru 1972.
http://vietnam.net.pl/TB746_en.htm

[Beast]

Usually there will be markings on both sides of the bumper. They are broken down as reading such markings from left to right on a front bumper.
1. The Major Command it is assigned to
2. The Intermediate Command it is assigned to
3. The Unit or Activity it is assigned to
4. The vehicle number for convoy purposes, aka: Order of March

So usually 1&2 are on the left side and 3&4 are on the right side.

[wesk]

That was Army info. As I said above tell us the answers to the questions I posted and we can quickly and accurately focus your markings needs.

[Beast]

Well since you gave him the hood numbers for an Army vehicle and not USMC, Navy, Air Force, and he agreed that that was what he was looking for, it is easy to assume then when he asked about bumper unit markings they would also be for an Army vehicle.

[wesk]

Not always true Dave. The Air Force retained the Army hood numbers up to about 53. I have learned over the years that one should never assume when preparing advice or troubleshooting data. Get all the facts first. Then embark on the trail once instead of 2 or 3 times.