Headlights

[Roger D.]

I am restoring my 1969 headlights. I want to use the original pivot brackets with the plastic ball. Does anyone restsore these units. I do not want to use the new stamped steel ones.
Thank you
Roger

[Russ S.]

Re: Headlights

Is there something wrong with the plastic brg?

[Roger D.]

Re: Headlights

Yes they are worn to the point that there is to much side play and movement that can cause improper gaps as well as chipping paint when going up and down. That would be a major problem to fix at that point. New fittings would not allow for excessive play and would assure no paint chipping when setup properly with the correct gaps.

[Russ S.]

Re: Headlights

If it's only side play, that is easily adjuster out with the locking collars.

[Joe L.]

Re: Headlights

Yes they are worn to the point that there is to much side play and movement that can cause improper gaps as well as chipping paint when going up and down. That would be a major problem to fix at that point. New fittings would not allow for excessive play and would assure no paint chipping when setup properly with the correct gaps.

Roger------


The bearings used for these assemblies are similar to what is known as a ball joint swivel bearing. Such bearings are available from industrial suppliers like McMaster-Carr and Grainger. The problem is I don't know if the bearings in the Corvette bearing assemblies are removable. If they are, the nylon sphere and metal outer race should be able to be pressed out of the frame and new ones pressed in.

[Roger D.]

Re: Headlights

If it's only side play, that is easily adjuster out with the locking collars.

Hi Russ and thanks for responding. Yes the collar does adjust the side play but when you actually grab the door once set it still has to much side play meaning a wiggle action on the shaft itself. You can actually see the play between the shaft and the plastic ball bearing.
Thanks!
Roger

[Roger D.]

Re: Headlights

Hi Joe, that will be a starting place for the new swivel bearing. Then I will go to the next step and see about the collar replacement.
Thank You
Roger

[Roger D.]

Re: Headlights

Found someone finally who restored my pot metal swivels with a new plastic swivel as well as a new collar. They fit on the shaft perfect and there is no twist play with the ball and shaft. Happy days. Not sure how to post pictures so you will just have to take my word for it.