Suspension Parts for Willys M38A1
Shocks, Leaf Springs & Axle Hardware for a Stable Ride (1952–1971).
Why the Willys M38A1 Suspension Needs Attention After Decades.
The Willys M38A1 relies on a rugged solid-axle setup with leaf springs front and rear – a military-proven design that still holds up well today, provided the wear parts are in good shape. Leaf springs gradually lose their tension and load capacity over time, while the rubber leaf spring bushings dry out, harden, and develop play – resulting in clunking noises and an unsettled ride. Shock absorbers lose their damping performance through oil loss or corrosion, and bump stops and leaf spring U-bolts loosen or fail under sustained off-road stress. The body mounting bushings, which isolate the tub from the chassis, also become brittle with age and start transmitting vibration straight into the body. Anyone driving or restoring an M38A1 off-road should check the entire suspension regularly.
- Shock Absorbers: The shock absorber front or rear provides controlled damping on any terrain.
- Leaf Spring Packs: The complete 7-leaf front spring pack and the 9-leaf rear spring pack for direct replacement.
- Leaf Spring Plates: The front right, front left and rear left plates secure the leaf springs to the chassis.
- U-Bolts & Bushings: The leaf spring U-bolt for the Dana 44 rear axle and the leaf spring main eye bushing keep joints tight and rattle-free.
- Body Mounting: The body tub mounting kit with screws and U-washers isolates the body from the chassis.
- Bump Stop: The bump stop front or rear limits suspension travel and prevents hard bottoming-out.
American Parts for Your M38A1.
Shock absorbers, leaf spring packs, leaf spring plates, U-bolts, and leaf spring bushings are supplied mainly by Crown Automotive – a US manufacturer with a long track record in military and off-road vehicle parts. The body tub mounting kit and one of the leaf spring plates come from the equally American manufacturer Omix.
Your Partner for Suspension Restoration.
Whether it's a single bushing or a full leaf spring overhaul, we're glad to advise you on installation order, torque specs, and the right combination of standard or lifted springs for your M38A1. Shipping from stock goes out within the next business day, so you can keep your project moving.