Jeep heaters

chrisgrove · #1 03-12-10, 23:13

Hi guys

Back in 1962 or 63 I came across the pond to Gagetown on one of the Pond Jump exercises. We were issued with Canadian vehicles. I have a recollection that some at least of the jeeps we had (M38 if I remember right) had a box fitted in front of the windscreen which we were led to believe was a heater (obviously sensible for Canadian winters, but we did not need to use them). Does anyone have any recollection (or better still pictures) of these?

Chris :

peter simundson · #2 04-12-10, 02:46

Large box right in front of the passenger. Mostly used on ambulance jeeps.
One of my jeeps had one. Great when they worked. Most didn't.
I had one M38 with the heater behind the seat on the wheel cover.

Peter S

maple_leaf_eh · #3 04-12-10, 04:10

Most M38A1 jeeps had a hot water heater mounted on the right inside wheel well. The heater has a cage blower passing air over aconventional heat exchanger. The heated air moves through 4" wire reinforced fibre ducting to a distribution box that is mounted, yes, beside the passenger's footwell. Flip the wire bail handle and a flap sends the air through a diffuser behind the dash panel or down to the footwell. There are two corresponding holes for the air to pass into the bottom of the windshield. Thin slits that allow the heated air to defrost the windshield. There is a high-neutral-low toggle switch on the dash to make it all work.

super dave · #4 04-12-10, 05:38

I believe this is what you are talking about

chrisgrove · #5 11-12-10, 00:40

Many thanks guys. At least my memory is not playing tricks! I have to confess that it suggests that the heater box was squarer than the US version which Super Dave has shown, but at least people know they existed!

Chris

super dave · #6 11-12-10, 01:13

And the hot water style.