Top

I have a 1952 M38A1 jeep it has the original top bows and hardware in good shape. My question is there any way that I can put a civilian top on the Jeep using the military bows. Because the Jeep does not have a roll bar.

 

Rollbar has nothing to do with supporting an aftermarket top except a bikini top. Aftermarket full tops generally have their own proprietary top bows.

 

I would think that because the A1 has the pivoting bows, rather than the rear bow at the rear corner, it could be possible. And there would be some modification necessary. I wouldn't rule it out, but be ready for some work. Unfortunately, you won't know what the scope is until you get the top.

 

The military bows are wider mounting in the dimple of the rear than most civilian bows that mount on top of the tub rail.

You would be looking at a Beachwood replacement $$$$

 

Timothy, I have a '53 M38a1 with all the Bestop bows and two doors. I'll trade ya for your military bows.
I do not have the top anymore. Became brittle from sun exposure and cracked during removal.

 

Depending on your needs, a military canvas "summer" top is an option I like a lot.

 

Timothy,

I also have a set of Civilian top bows and a Bestop "Super Top" that needs cleaning but probably has some life left in it. Not torn, and the windows are still decent.

I would prefer to have the military top bows and a canvas "summer top" for my Jeep, so you can take a look at what I have when you come up for the axles.

I would trade for the military top bows and hardware if you want to go that route.

 

My M38A1 military canvas tops were on the Jeeps when I got them. They were from WeeBee Webbing.
http://www.odcloth.com/products.html
They are really well made.


Dave

 

Yep, I bought a summer top for my MB clone project from WeeBee, as well as two sets of seat covers. All of it was very well made indeed.