UPDATE: Jim’s sharp eyes discovered this egregious attempt at illegally modifying the serial number of the data plate. He pointed out that there was an M38A1 data plate on the dash stamped as a CJ2A.
“Selling a 1946 Willys Jeep CJ2A. The Engine is in several pieces but all appear to be here. Asking $3900. Private Party Sale, No Tax. For more info call 602-332-5999 or you can see it at U-Parktosell 507 E. VanBuren, Avondale AZ, 623-882-9993. Visit U-parktosell online at http://www.uparktosell.net/ or type uparktosell in craigslist search box.”
http://phoenix.craigslist.org/wvl/cto/1470020142.html
It’s definitely NOT an M38a1, they weren’t produced until 1952 and had rounded fenders. Body style and split windshield tell me this is a 1946 CJ2A, and the serial number is in line with 1946 production numbers. Perhaps a previous owner tried replacing the data plate with an M38a1 blank?
That’s a good point. The serial number would put it as a late ’46. I believe the grille is later than a ’46.
I don’t believe that was a blank. It appears someone cut the old dash out of a M-38a1 and screwed it into the dash. Note that the plates appear to have the original fasteners.
It’s also important to note that it may or may not have been the current seller who made these changes, but the changes are so strange that one can’t help but conclude that there appears to be a specific intent to deceive.
I did a search on the VIN at the CJ-2A vin number page (http://dcent.net/cj2ainfo/45-49cj2a_numbers.htm), but didn’t spot it there.
– Dave