M38 CDN Restoration

[donjunior]

Greetings,

Much to my wife's dismay, I have embarked on the restoration of a 1952 M38 CDN. It appears to be fairly original other than the 12 volt electrical system.

Needless to say, I was happy to find the CAR number (52-31376) on the frame but even more pleased to find what appears to be original hand painted numbers hiding behind two metal plates that were bolted to the lower windshield frame. A gold maple leaf on red and white '22' on black (2nd and 3rd pictures). Note the NOS right front fender curtousy of Marcus at Willys Acres - it bolted into place in about 5 minutes, the repro left fender took over an hour and a 'porta power' before it finally lined up!

There are some knowledgeable folks on this site especially, the Canadian military gurus, so any info on the service history of this particular jeep would be greatly appreciated.

Once I finish getting the body sorted out, I plan to tear her down to the frame and do a complete restoration - which leads me to another question - was the frame on these early 'M' series vehicles originally black?

Thanks!

Darcy from the prairies....