M38A1 Bows and rods

Casey B · #1 20-06-12, 05:56

Does anyone have any clear pictures of how the rods aresupposed to work with the roof bows for an M38A1 Jeep?
I ask as these bows were not for this particular jeep and have been slightly modified...a few more holes. they should work however i am not sure how the rods are supposed to fit and stay in place and where the web straps go. If there are some pics on line or a reference that i can see that would be great!
I have no doors so that is the easy part. Just need to keep the heads dry out here in the wet west!
Thanks!

rick25 · #2 20-06-12, 06:22

Hi Casey, This should help you out: http://www.odcloth.com/rodwork.html
-Rick

rob love · #3 20-06-12, 13:08

We used to weld a 3/8 washer to the bottom (actually about an inch up from the bottom) on the side curtain rods. We also installed some form of retainer on the top of the same rod so it would not climb up. The little pocket for the rod on the jeep usually had the bottom bent out of it and the rods could work loose and fall away onto the road.

Wasn't an official mod but it was done.

Casey B · #4 21-06-12, 04:49

Thanks Rob I can see where you mean and it makes total sense as mine are worn out and a little out of round as well.
Thanks Mike it did help out. Now I see the configuration I am guessing the straps hold the top two bows tight pulling on the rods from the winshield...?
Not sure if I do not use the side curtains if I need the side curtain rods...?
we'll see...Thanks again Let you know how this worked out!

rob love · #5 21-06-12, 05:07

The tarp is what puts a lot of the tension on the superstructure.

If you don't have side curtains on then you don't need those rods.

Frank v R · #6 21-06-12, 14:04

Hi Casey , the roof rods are easy to make and VERY important, they help to stiffen the entire system , without them the tarp will slowly tear itself apart, the tarp will tear at the top sides by the windshield and you will also lose the small flaps that secure the top to the forward hoop, it causes alot of stress on the windshield and the top bows, I saw this alot on the jeeps when they were still in the system and in civy use, hope this helps,
regards Frank