Acetylene Headlights

Thuston1914

Junior Member
Hi All
To the members that posted to my post on 33" spoked wheels last month thank you. The info was helpful.
I was wondering if anyone out there has an illustrated breakdown of how an acetylene headlight is constructed? From what I have read thru most post is they are all basically same with a few appearance differences. I'm not trying start a discussion on that just basically how the lens is attached and reflectors with a general parts breakdown. What I have is a 1914 speedster with metal acetylene headlights no brass what so ever nor is there a ford logo or any kind of marking what so ever. I need to make sure I have evrey thing and or what's missing. They do resemble I believe Victors w/ four vents on the top with the top being more pronouced. These may be repops but one still has the glass reflector installed and and both lens have to be replaced. I know it sounds like a lot of work but I'm just asking. Going electric at this time is'nt really an option as I haven't a generator (early block).
Thanks
 
Brass headlamps are rather simple, the main part is the burner, a ceramic piece with small orifices, the stem it mounts to, and the plate to affix it to the lamp housing. Add a reflector, and thats about all.

This site shows restorations, you can glimpse the construction in the photos.

http://www.veteranautolamps.com/Past Restorations.htm

The E&J in the pics is one with the complete parts to run on acetylene gas, but wired this one with electric bulb on a bracket for more usefulness.
 

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They look to be simple. My problem is the headlight ring is in 2 pieces. I have an outer ring and the inside which has 5 screw holes with clips. the inside piece is detached. It does fit tight in the outer ring but not secure. my fear is that when heat is applied and the door is opened on purpose or accident the expansion will allow the inner ring to fall out. Is there some kind of cement or am I being overly worried about it?
 
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