Trailer, Telephone Cable Splicer, 1/4 ton, Single Axle, K-38

During the 1930s through 1950s, specialized K-Series trailers of various weight capacity were fitted to carry utility poles and cable, or assist other work for the Army Signal Corps. The 1/4-ton jeep trailer adapted for cable splicing was designated "Trailer, Telephone Cable Splicer, 1/4 ton, K38" for Signal Corps Cable Splicers Tool Equipment TE-56. These trailers were manufactured in small numbers by at least four companies, including York Hoover Body Corp. and Highway Trailer Company.

The inside of the K-38 trailer, under a lid hinged on one side, was fitted with compartments to hold tools and parts used in the cable splicing work. A small shelf was provided at the trailer rear as a work space. A landing foot holds the trailer level when not hooked to a vehicle. The tire size is 4.00x18.

K-38 Telephone Cable Splicer Trailer Dimensions

The dimensions of the K-38 trailer, listed in TM 9-2800, are:

Length, overall:	78 in
Length, body:	42 in
Width, body:	20 in
Tread:	33 in
Height, body:	42 in
Ground clearance:	13 in
Weight, net:	410 lbs
Weight, payload:	500 lbs
Weight, gross:	910 lbs

Trailer, 1/4-ton, 2-Wheel Telephone Cable Splicer, M367 (Signal corps Model K-38A)

When the 1/4-ton, 2-wheel cargo trailer M100 is equipped with telephone cable splicing tool boxes, the trailer is designated as 1/4-ton, 2-Wheel Telephone Cable Splicer Trailer, M367 (Signal corps Model K-38A).

Trailer, Telephone Cable Splicer, 1/4 ton, K-38. Reference photo from TM 9-2800, 1 Sep 1943.

Trailer, Telephone Cable Splicer, 1/4 ton, K-38. Photo courtesy of Rich Weaver Ft. Collins, CO.

Cover latch of Trailer, Telephone Cable Splicer, 1/4 ton, K-38. Photo courtesy of Rich Weaver Ft. Collins, CO.

Rear tool compartment of Trailer, Telephone Cable Splicer, 1/4 ton, K-38. Photo courtesy of Rich Weaver Ft. Collins, CO.

Data plate of Trailer, Telephone Cable Splicer, 1/4 ton, K-38. Photo courtesy of Rich Weaver Ft. Collins, CO.