M38A1 CDN2 and CDN3 Differences

[chris vickery]

I can tell you from experience that there are the things that are "correct" pertaining to either the CDN2 or CDN3 and then there is reality.
I have a couple of both and really, at this stage in the game they are a mish mash of parts.
Example, someone will say that headlight guards were not used on CDN3 jeeps, yet I have an example in the yard right now that has them.
CDN2 and CDN3 jeeps used both slotted and solid hood hinges, I have jeeps that have one of each...
Then there is the issue of the smg mount or fire extiinguisher bracket. My jeep have holes for both on the dash.
The fact is that the M38A1 saw a service life from 1953 until the early 80's, during which time there were all sorts of modifications, both official and non-oficial, with some being an interpretation of the CFTO issued.
Then there is the fact that many were issued to militia troops and that is a whole different game again.
I am restoring my CDN3 to reflect its lineage to 1 Hussars which was an armd recce militia regt from the London area. I was able to trace the CFR# and prove the lineage as such. It will have all the bits and bobs associated with it as used in the time frame of the mid 1970s.
Not sure I have been of any help but thats my take on the A1 anyhow.