Restoring headlights

[Ray P]

I am about to begin restoring the headlights on my 30 coupe. I have read posts recommending resilvering the original reflectors while I have been advised by others to use repros. I do plan to use halogen bulbs. Does a halogen bulb work OK with silvered reflectors? I'm wondering if the higher intensity beam or possibly higher heat could possibly cause the silver to discolor or prematurely tarnish or some other adverse effect. I have also been told that in order to achieve optimum light output I should use new repro lenses. I have seen many posts recommending the use of original parts where possible. I have a pair of original lenses that I was planning on using. I had never considered that they might not be suitable but will get new ones if needed to achieve better illumination. I would appreciate any comments on these questions as well as any other advice on headlight restoration.

 

[Charlie Stephens]

I would resilver the originals or get the reproductions from Bratton's, (301) 829-9880, and then run the "Brite" bulbs from Ron Francis, (800) 292-1940, wire-works.com that go right into the original sockets. Check the archives for comments on the new reflectors from Bratton's.

Charlie Stephens

 

[Mike V. Florida]

Reflectors work best when the bulb can be focused. The reflectors were designed for a two filament bulb with one filament in the center and one off center on top.

Original reflectors can be silver plated or aluminum plated like modern telescopes.

It is my understanding that halogen bulbs, while bright, do not have the filament in the right place for proper focus. So you end up with a bright flood light instead of a focused one.

 

[John Kuhnast]

How can I tell if my reflectors are original or repro?

 

[1crosscut]

Send them off to Craig Riker to be re-silvered as was done originally. He did mine and I was very satisfied on quality, price and quick turn around.
carsrule@embarqmail.com Craig Riker 419-290-4442 (Ohio)

 

[Kurt in NJ]

I have been using original reflecters, re-wired original sockets with quartz halogen bulbs for more than 12 years --never any problems ---on long drives I use the headlights in daylight to keep the generator from overcharging the battery.

 

[rons49]

Dave if you don't mind what is the cost of resilvering?

 

[1crosscut]

Dave if you don't mind what is the cost of resilvering?

He did mine in April of 2012 and the cost for two was $79.00 including postage back to me.

 

[Neil Wilson]

Dave,
Thanks for posting the contact information for plating headlamp reflectors.

 

[Mike V. Florida]

How can I tell if my reflectors are original or repro?

I know of no reproduction reflectors that were silvered. i'ts a pretty sure bet that if it's silver it's original and chrome most likely reproduction.

I don't have access to by pictures to show a side by side comparison.

 

[Arlen]

I agree with using Riker. Does the best work way cheaper than anybody else.

 

[Mike V. Florida]

I have read that neoprem rubber will tarnish the silver. Only use cork and no sealer.