1971 Headlamp Ring Retaining Screw

[Ray K.]

I have to replace a headlamp on my '71 and while removing the screws from the chrome headlamp retaining ring, I've found that the retaining screws are "kind of" unique. I have never seen a screw of this configuration and design before.
Which has "prompted" my curiosity up . . . .

So far, the only info that I have been able to find is that they were installed at the plant as an assembly (headlamp, ring, screws), and as a result, no GM part number is identified in the AIM. I only found a part number 5966249 in the Corvette Parts & Illustration Catalog that I have.

When I looked on multiple Corvette restoration and/or part replacement supplier websites, all show a "totally" different screw configuration. Would anyone have any info on this unique screw (style, finish, thread size, etc)? Photos are below . . .
Appreciate any/all help in lowering my curiosity . . . .
Ray K (#43777)

[James G.]

Re: 1971 Headlamp Ring Retaining Screw

I have never inspected them quite that closely. - it's a nail cut almost on the point.
Nail pierces then the drill thread cuts and seats.
head has locking serations.

It's exactly what are in my original unrestored 71.

[Ray K.]

Re: 1971 Headlamp Ring Retaining Screw

James,
Thanks for your knowledge and expertise on my '71s headlamp retaining ring screws.
You know, I never noticed the head having the locking serrations until you mentioned it.
It's a very, very interesting screw. One could only image why it was engineered this way and no wonder it hasn't been reproduced. . . .
Any idea on what model years it was used on?
Ray K

[Joseph W.]

Re: 1971 Headlamp Ring Retaining Screw

IMG_2325.jpgThose type screws are on both my late 69’s.
I did find a close reproduction of them on EBay.

[James G.]

Re: 1971 Headlamp Ring Retaining Screw

Wow Ray it appears as though you found them,
Thank you.

[David B.]

Re: 1971 Headlamp Ring Retaining Screw

Screw # 5966249 is a Guide Division part number. Would check in that area if you want exact match.

[Ray K.]

[Mike E.]

Re: 1971 Headlamp Ring Retaining Screw

Let us know when they arrive, and what you find!

[Ray K.]

Re: 1971 Headlamp Ring Retaining Screw

Mike,
The Midwest Muscle headlamp ring retaining screws arrived today. They came in a zip lock bag with no identification of any kind . . . .
When compared to my originals, the most notable differences are: the finish (cad versus black phosphate) the length of the thread (longer towards the "piercing" end) and the size of the hex (wider and deeper).
Since I am the original owner of my '71, I'm going to media blast my originals and have them finished in black phosphate again.
Ray K

[Leif A.]

Re: 1971 Headlamp Ring Retaining Screw

Ray,
Other than the length of the threads and the finish, not a bad reproduction. Your original looks good enough to use "as is" without refinishing. You might try to refinish the new screws with black phosphate to see how they turn out...just for fun.