36 Truck Headlight Assembly

B

bbook

Member
I checked some old posts and got help to get the clips in to hold the original reflector to the original bucket and the other clips to hold the original lens to the reproduction ring and I put a new rubber gasket in the groove on the reflector.

I am unable to get the ring/lens unit on the bucket far enough to attach the spring clasp on the catch on the bottom of the bucket. It looks like the ring must go over the lip on the top of the bucket and then pressure is applied to push the ring/lens in and down enough to get the spring clasp on the catch. I just can't get it in/down enough to get the clasp on, despite pushing harder than I am comfortable doing. Is that correct, or do you put the spring clasp on first and push up to seat the ring on top? Or, do I have something else assembled wrong that is making it all not fit? Any thoughts are appreciated.
 
Sounds like you are doing it correctly, but I'm not sure about the rubber gasket that you mention. It may be too big. Originally the assembly used a cork gasket. Its available from most parts suppliers.
 
I'd ditch the rubber gasket and go with the original cork. Plus, have read in the past that the rubber 'gasses off' and will foul the reflectors over time.
 
I removed the rubber gaskets and got one rim on after bending the fork on the bottom that receives the spring retainer. The other still wouldn't go on even after I removed the clip on the top and the reflector assembly. After some sanding, filing and bending of the bucket I got the other to go on. I'll order cork gaskets.

Some times I would rather pull an engine than deal with "lesser" projects like this. I am learning that matching old original parts and reproduction items can be a challenge. On the other hand, those shiny new rims around the original lenses and buckets sure do finish off the front of the truck nicely.

This completes my lighting project so that I have a fully lighted truck running from the lever on the steering wheel as it should. On the other hand, I haven't driven it yet, so I will let you know if the lights come on when I turn left. Thanks for the help.
 
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