1954 Corvette rear tail light repair

[Tim M.]

Is it possible to re mount a 1954 Corvette reproduction plastic rear tail light lens in a used stainless steel bezel section. It looks like somehow the bezel was bent around the plastic at the factory on the original. Can this be done at home somehow? Thanks.

[Chris S.]

Re: 1954 Corvette rear tail light repair

very possible !
first - (your going to hate this) - have to break the old one out
you may be able to heat it up and twist the old one out - I have not tried it
the new one will go in - use a light very small bead of silicone to seal it and keep it in place

[Tim M.]

Re: 1954 Corvette rear tail light repair

What type of silicone? Something like for household use like around a tub or something along the automotive use like a RTV blue. Thanks.

[Steve M.]

Re: 1954 Corvette rear tail light repair

Clear household silicone worked for me. I had a loose lens. Just put a dab on my finger and reached in through hole in back and got it spread around neatly. Held like a champ. Here is where I then proceeded to throw away $500. Once the lens was fully cured in place I went through 1000 grit, 1,500 finishing with 2,000 grit, polishing compound and the thing was shining like a jewel nary a mark on them, as new.

Then I had to give it one last light polish with my mini 2 inch buffer.. it caught and launched 10 feet out of my hand before shattering on the floor. But the million pieces are very shiny....

[Tim M.]

Re: 1954 Corvette rear tail light repair

I hate it when that happens. Thanks for the silicone info.

[Chris S.]

Re: 1954 Corvette rear tail light repair

small small small bead on the inside lip - clear silicone