Oem Frame Boxing Question

I have a frame here that I can’t easily place. It has the tube front crossmember with steering on it, angled rear shock mounts and outboard body mounts.

The interesting bit is that there is no boxing beyond that done in front. None. The draw bar stuff is there but none of the boxing like my 2As. The frame is in amazing shape overall. I was going to use it for my Dad’s Jeep, but after looking at these, I wanna do some research before I prep it.

Any ideas guys?

 

It also has threaded shackle brackets and radiator tabs.

 

From your description it sounds like a 1949-1950 cj3a frame. The engine brackets are offset and they have no ID stamping.

 

Awesome ty!

 

And there should be no strapping as on 2A frames. I don't think any of the CJ frames were boxed past what was up front behind the cross member. A 3A frame should be a great choice for a build if it isn't rusted out or damaged.

 

whatcha doin with it?

 

x2! 3a/3b/m38 frames are the strongest of the flat fender frames.

 

You stated that you have the early bottom mount radiator tabs and that factor narrows it down to 1949-1950 timeline.
Later CJ3A’s have side mounted radiators.
There are many subtle differences on these basic frames which were mfgd from 1949 through 1965 . (USA production years)
M38 frame versions have the most notable changes.

 

Gonna put together a "not trying too hard" M38 knock-off my old man can bum around in during summer.

I got 3 2As and 5 total running gear to make 2 decent workable 80" 'ers. Dad's will prolly get a Kubota.

None of my "pile" is special, so resto-mod isn't a sin here.