Highlights
- Rare 1953 M38A1 originally destined for Korean War service
- Authentic military aesthetic with "Hot Lips" MAS*H tribute
- Extensive mechanical and electrical overhaul in the last 18 months
- Great condition and perfect for shows and historic recreations
The Appeal
The ‘Hot Lips’ decal on this ‘53 Jeep’s screen is the giveaway - it was originally built to be used in the Korean War, but the conflict ended before it could get there. Hence, the reference to MAS*H, set during the Korean War, and Nurse Margaret Houlihan.
This Jeep was first UK registered in 1976 and is finished, naturally, in military drag olive green with neat detailing such as the stars and decals. We’re told that it has been extensively overhauled across the mechanicals, electrics and running gear during the last 18 months. Work has included attention to the brakes, fuel system, service items and renewing the wiring.
Fitted with the dependable 2.2-litre ‘Hurricane’ petrol engine plus a 3spd gearbox, we’re told it run and drives very well. It would be a great addition to any country, classic show, or historic reenactment.
The vendor says:
“A great, original-looking example of the post-war US military Willys Jeep. Offered with many recent mechanical upgrades and improvements. Ideal for use at many of the UK’s military shows and reenactment events.”
History and Paperwork
- First registered in 1953
- Originally built for Korean War service, but the conflict ended before deployment
- Imported to the UK and registered here in 1976
- Eight former registered keepers since then
- Classified as a Historic Vehicle based on age
- MOT exempt and zero-rated for road tax
- Lots of recent maintenance work over the last 18 months documented below
- VIN number 68509
The Condition
- Finished in authentic matt olive drab military livery
- Features white painted service stars and accompanying script
- "Hot Lips" name painted on the windscreen surround as a tribute to the MAS*H character
- Cabin presents in typical utilitarian military specification
- Interior designed purely for functionality with only essential features
- Well-kept example with light age to note in photos
The Mechanics
- 2.2-litre F4-134 "Hurricane" petrol engine
- Three-speed Borg-Warner T-90 manual transmission
- Long list of recent maintenance detailed below
Recent maintenance over last 18 months:
- Two new HCB057 12V batteries within the last 18 months
- New battery isolator cut-off system installed
- Upgraded with MV-141A ignition module replacing the points
- Original points setup retained and included
- New distributor cap and rotor arm fitted
- Four new Bosch spark plugs installed
- Brakes overhauled with new shoes all round and new handbrake shoes
- New master and wheel cylinders fitted
- Two new brake drums installed
- Upgraded brake lines to copper items
- New steel bowl fuel pump
- New silicon inlet ducting and radiator hose
- Two new twin fanbelts fitted
- Electrical overhaul completed with lights and indicators now fully operational
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