1953 Willys M38A1 Military Utility - Desert Sand Restoration - 46,883 Miles - 2.2L F-Head 4-Cylinder, 3-Speed Manual, 4WD - Willys-Overland, Data Plate Present
A 1953 Willys-Overland M38A1, the definitive quarter-ton 4x4 of the Korean War era, presented in a striking desert sand restoration with US Army unit markings throughout.
Description
The Willys M38A1 was the ultimate expression of the original Jeep concept, refined through combat experience from WWII into a purpose-built military utility that served through the Korean War and into the Cold War era. Built by Willys-Overland Motors in Toledo, Ohio, the M38A1 replaced the earlier M38 with an improved chassis, stronger axles, and a more powerful F-head engine. Serial number 54525, confirmed by the data plate as a Willys-Overland build completed in August 1953, makes this a genuine first-year M38A1 example from the heart of Korean War production.
This example has been cosmetically restored in US desert sand livery with applied military unit markings. The tan paint scheme covers all body panels and wheels, complemented by stencilled designations including unit number, "BATTLE BORN" (Nevada National Guard), and star insignia. New tan canvas seat cushions complete the presentation. The restoration has been done to a high standard and the vehicle presents beautifully in person and in photos. Mechanically, the 134 cubic inch (2.2-litre) F-head inline-four petrol engine is fitted in the original configuration. The three-speed manual transmission and dual-range transfer case are both present and correct, with the characteristic round-knob and transfer case levers. The original instrument cluster is intact, reading 46,883 miles on the odometer. The original data plate is legible and confirms all specifications. The 28-volt Prestolite generator system and original military gauges are all present.
For military vehicle collectors, the M38A1 occupies a special place as the last of the true Willys-built military Jeeps before Kaiser took over the company. This example, with its legible data plate, correct mechanicals, and commanding desert presentation, is one of the more complete and well-documented examples to come to auction in Australia.
Features
* 134ci (2.2-litre) F-head inline-4 naturally aspirated petrol engine
* 3-speed manual transmission
* Dual-range transfer case (high and low range)
* Four-wheel drive
* Left-hand drive
* Willys-Overland manufacture confirmed by data plate (Serial 54525, Date 8/53)
* Contract reference: DA-33 019 ORD 630
* Restored in desert sand livery with US Army unit markings (BATTLE BORN, TP25, HQ-1)
* Military-specification steel wheels painted to match (full set including spare)
* Tan canvas seat cushions (front and rear)
* Original instrument cluster: speedometer/odometer, battery, fuel level, temp, oil pressure
* Prestolite 28V military generator system (plate confirmed original)
* Front and rear tow points
* Folding windscreen with wipers
* Military-spec blackout tail lights present
* Key included (Key C33)
Specifications
Year: 1953 (Data plate: August 1953)
Make/Model: Willys M38A1 Military Utility
Body: Open Military Utility (Quarter Ton, 4x4)
Engine: 134ci (2.2L) F-Head Inline 4 Petrol
Transmission: 3-Speed Manual
Drive: Four-wheel drive with dual-range transfer case
Odometer: 46,883 Miles
Colour: Desert Sand (restoration)
Seats: 4 (front driver/passenger, rear passenger bench)
Steering: Left-hand drive
VIN/Serial: 54525
If you have any questions relating to this vehicle, or if you would like to arrange a physical or virtual inspection, please contact Vorak directly on 0419 371 926
(Key #C33)
Lloyds stock #582522+1
#CCALL
#CCUSA
Location of item: 4-10 Keon Parade, Thomastown, VIC, Australia
** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
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