- Seller: Kristin C (Contact)
- Location: Browns Valley, California
- Mileage: 44,280 Shown
- Chassis #: RMD42358
- Title Status: Clean
- Engine: 2.2-Liter 4-Cylinder
- Transmission: 3-Speed Manual
It’s a pity that many people who see this Willys Jeep out on the road will think it’s just another CJ-5. Yes, it’s the first of the “round fender” Jeeps and thus the forerunner of that famous, long-running CJ, but as a military vehicle, it has a history that is far more interesting that the majority of its civilian cousins. The seller of this 1953 M38A1 thinks it started out life working at Beale Air Force Base in Yuba County, California, which is a base known for its high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft. Then, in 1966 or so, it was sold to the University of California, where it was used as a field research vehicle in the California Foothills for decades (it even currently has its “exempt” license plates issued to the university). With a claimed 44,280 miles, this “1/4 ton” Willys has the marks and scars of time, but it’s California solid and ready for the next step in its storied career, and it’s now being offered as a Barn Finds Auction in Browns Valley, California.
Here’s a faded sticker that offers a testament to the Jeep’s employer since 1966. The seller believes that her son is the first private owner of this Jeep. He was planning to restore it, but his plans have changed, so he’s selling it with a clean title, new plates, and six service manuals to help the new owner restore the Jeep or simply maintain it as it is.
The M38A1 uses the 134-cubic-inch “Hurricane” F-Head four cylinder, which produces 72 horsepower and 114 lb.-ft. of torque; the seller says that it “starts right up” and the Jeep drives well. The transmission is a Warner T-90 three-speed manual, and the M38A1 used a Dana 18 transfer case and Dana front and rear axles. A few running changes took place throughout the 1953 model year, and this example seems to have parts from both “generations,” such as the hinged front grille and radiator mount from the first generation and the battery box and fenders of the second. If there’s one thing I’ve learned in researching Jeeps, however, it’s that anything was possible.
The M38A1 was originally equipped with a 24-volt electrical system, but this one has had a 12-volt conversion with a newer 12-volt battery. The gauges all work, including the odometer and oil pressure gauge. You can see that there is mild surface rust on the floors and interior panels, but nothing close to anything you’d label as “rot.” It’s just a nice, clean California Jeep.
The nice thing about the Jeep is that you can use it for almost anything; it’s flexible, and you can choose any number of paths with your new project if you decide to buy it. I think it looks perfectly right as-is, and I’d have no problem leaving those faded and torn old stickers intact and driving it anywhere. On the other hand, it’s solid enough that it could be a fairly easy restoration for those who collect military vehicles. If either of those things (or anything in between) sound fun, bid now!
Bid On This Auction
jlr bid $3,100.00 2025-07-30 10:59:31
UmbertoEco bid $2,500.00 2025-07-30 10:55:49- jlr bid $2,200.00 2025-07-30 10:48:50
Escargot42 bid $2,000.00 2025-07-29 08:40:14
Lyn bid $1,500.00 2025-07-28 06:29:53
TomN bid $1,350.00 2025-07-27 11:55:16- Lyn bid $1,250.00 2025-07-24 07:27:37
dennis mahoney bid $1,000.00 2025-07-23 19:49:00- Lyn bid $500.00 2025-07-23 14:02:20
Those black and yellow “Diamond E” (exempt- no annual registration fees due, as it was a government owned vehicle) are fairly rare, I believe, and a matching pair are quite collectible and valuable. This vehicle has likely not been driven on the street, as you probably wouldn’t make it far before having to explain the situation to a police or CHP officer. If the buyer of this Jeep doesn’t want them (you can only use them at shows, etc- not on the road), I’m sure the California owner of an old police car, fire truck, etc would love to purchase them for restoration and mounting on their vehicle.
Make sure the turn signals and brakes work, and drive the wee out of it. There’ll be a permanent smile on your face!
What a sweet little machine, I’d drive it as is and turn it into my fishing rig!!
That was an airfield piece.
I’ve got a 52 that was bought from Kirtland AFB by a contractor back in the day.
The red paint means it was on the airfield as a transport vehicle.
I’de leave it as it is, put horseless carriage plate on it, leave the old Californias on it. Drive it in our local farm parade.
Question is: what is the reserve? the shipping out to New Mexico?
Contact our shipping broker, and they can provide you with a quote for the shipping cost to New Mexico. Here is Dakota’s phone number: (971) 246-6601
Spoke to him; he is reasonable on cost.
My wife has a job for him already.
We shall see what happens on this Jeep, it’s a want not a need, be cool to have.
Appreciate the contact.
I’m guessing that first video is this jeep driving at full speed in high gear with overdrive engaged.
I’d love to have this old girl.
If the all in cost of the vehicle is within reason; I will buy it.
That means the reserve has to come off.
I collect, I don’t resell.
Currently we have 26 antique vehicles and I have 9 in the Q to go through.
This one would allow me to just do maintenance and enjoy it.
Every dent has a story to tell, the patina of each is unique.
I guess I am not buying that Jeep.