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1952 M38a1 Starter/electrical System

Discussion in 'Flat Fender Tech' started by tkostelni, Apr 16, 2018.

  1. Apr 16, 2018
    tkostelni

    tkostelni New Member

    Virginia
    Joined:
    Apr 16, 2018
    Messages:
    2
    A friend of mine has a 1952 m38a1 that has a bad carb that were working on replacing, but while we wait for the new carb to come in the mail we decided to see if the engine would turn over and if the starter worked. So we out in two batteries (it still has the old 24v syste) turned on the power and pressed the foot plunger and nothing happened. We tried to arc the starter with a screw driver and all it did was spin the starter but it didnt actually engage the engine, does anyone have any tips on how to diagnose what exactly is wrong with it?(could it just e a bad starter solenoid?) and does anyone have any tips on converting it to a 12v system instead of the old 24v?
     
  2. Apr 16, 2018
    PeteL

    PeteL If it wasn't for physics, and law enforcement... 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Hills of NH
    Joined:
    Aug 3, 2003
    Messages:
    9,754
    First of all (if you look) the M38A1 does not have a solenoid.

    If it spins only when you jump it, then the mechanically operated foot button switch (on top of the starter) was not making good contact.
    But the starter motor and electrical connections would appear to be functioning.

    If jumped, it spins without engaging, because the foot button also is required to move the lever-operated pinion gear into engagement.

    Given these observations, I suggest you inspect the mechanical linkages from the foot button to the starter lever and switch. Adjust them if neccessary, or possibly clean or replace the switch assembly.

    As for converting to 12 volt, you would lose the incredible quality and reliability of the military components, which are also 100% water and dust proof.
    And which are very valuable parts.

    Excellent military-issue manuals are available. I recommend investing in them. TM9-8014 is a good one to start with.
     
    Last edited: Apr 16, 2018
  3. Apr 16, 2018
    timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    Medford Mass USA
    Joined:
    Aug 10, 2003
    Messages:
    23,596
    This may help you

    Technical Manual Operation M38A1 : Department of the Army : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive

    Starting system is on page 180.

    As PeteL mentions, the M38A1 (and military vehicles in general) were built to a much higher standard than the later civilian Jeeps. If this vehicle is complete, it will be worthwhile to keep it complete to preserve its practical and monetary value.

    If your friend just wants a Jeep to putt around in, you could sell this vehicle to military collectors for restoration or parts, and buy a civilian model with the proceeds. Try looking around at the G forums G503 Military Vehicle Message Forums - Index page
     
    Last edited: Apr 16, 2018
  4. Apr 16, 2018
    PeteL

    PeteL If it wasn't for physics, and law enforcement... 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Hills of NH
    Joined:
    Aug 3, 2003
    Messages:
    9,754
    X2 on timgr.

    Might get more results in a different forum - M38A1 is not considered a Flat Fender. They are largely interchangeable with "Early" CJ5's.

    M38 would be a flat-fender however.


    And welcome to ECJ5!
     
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