# 257 Bulb for a 1963

[Gerald C.]

What is a fair price for these NOS bulbs?

Thanks,

Jerry

[Donald L.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

Most NAPA stores can get them. However being a low demand item they might require you to buy 10 at a time. Last time I got some they were about $1 a piece.

[Larry M.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

I recently purchased NORS Westinghouse #257 flashing bulbs for $4/each. USA made, brass base, made around 1966. Purchased on E-bay. They work well.

I found that all I could get locally were #257 silver-metal base bulbs made in China. I bought a few for around $1/each. However, the flash rate was erratic and I did not use them. They came from NAPA, but I checked all of the brand stores around New Orleans, including all of the small independents (FLAPS). Hoping someone had old stock....but no luck.

The GE #257 brass base, USA-made bulbs come up occassionally on E-bay. They go for around $4-10/each. There is a current auction going on where the current price is $15 for two GE bulbs, with 3 hours still to go. Number 170218546516. You can bid, or check the final price after 9 PM EDT.

The old, USA-made #257 bulbs come up on E-bay every few weeks or so.

Larry

[M W.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

I agree with Larry. $15-$20 is fair for two GE. I have two 60's model Westinghouse #257 I will sell you if needed. Good luck.

Craig

[Gerald C.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

Does the NAPA Bulb # BP 1895N work the same way as the 257 bulb does with the flash rate and brightness?

Thanks

[Harry S.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

Try a train hobby store. As I recall that bulb was in the engine. Probably cost you a buck. That's what I did several years ago.

[Bob R.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

Anyone that has tried to change that bulb will tell you it is best to buy the old made in USA bulb. You don't want to have to do that job twice.

[Richard G.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

I agree, no China blinker bulbs. We as a group we no longer fit well or can't bend like we used to.
The guy that put my car together installed the standard non-bliking bulbs in the emergency brake light and the headlight warning so I had to pull the dash and change them out. Just went to my original harness and pulled the USA bulbs from there. They tested fine and I put them back.
I agree they are expensive but China isn't the way to go on this part.
If you have to change them out, on the C2's, I recommend pulling the horn and unscrewing the wheel from the hub. It's easy enough and helps a bunch. If you are under 40 maybe you can skip this step? My Granddaughter was 7 she helped me detail my 64 Chevelle. She sat on the back seat and cleaned out under the front. Didn't know anyone could do that!
Just mark the wheel location. No need to pull the hub. The job does require a Clutch Head screw driver for most cars.
The randomness of the blinking when both are on is one of the per-computer quirks of the C2's that I enjoy for some reason.
Rick

[Peter H.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

Gerald If memory serves me right..Industry bulb # 1895 is correct looking but definitely does not flash.It was used for clearance lights on trucks.Peter.

[Stewart L.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

Be careful of the seller Trainz on eBay, they have a photo of a brass base 257 GE bulb for 1.67 but when you buy them, they send you a silver base Chinese bulb.

[John D.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

Does the NAPA Bulb # BP 1895N work the same way as the 257 bulb does with the flash rate and brightness?

Thanks

Gerald, Did not read all the replies. One of the things I plan on doing to my 63 this winter is getting a buddy to help change out a Chinese 257.
It flashes a 100 miles an hour.
Forget buying any new 257 over the counter. Only buy the NOS ones. John

[Jimmy B.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

I sent you an email .... found some "real" ones in my tool box center drawer in the box...

[Gerald C.]

Re: # 257 Bulb for a 1963

Thanks everyone. A friend of mine has a few that he will part with. They are the original 257's. Another friend of mine recruited me to install the headlight and emergency brake warning bulbs> I need to down some Ibuprofen before I start!