Milky Headlamp

[Jerod M.]

I installed a nice new (correct) headlamp in the '71 this evening, and within a few seconds of use it turned a milky white color on the inside of the lamp. It still works fine, but it's now a cosmetic issue. The light was new, but it had been boxed and stored in the garage for a few years. Can anyone tell me what caused this?

[Bob R.]

Re: Milky Headlamp

I bet the vacuum seal is gone and the light probably won't work for very long. I tried using old bulbs and had that problem. I ended up with Lectric Limited reproduction bulbs.

[Dan D.]

Re: Milky Headlamp

This means the bulb is gassy. That is a small amount of gas is inside the bulb. Sometimes cased by gas being boiled out of the filament or internal reflector from the heat. Not the case for you as the bulb has not been used. So the gas is from a very small amount of outside air entering the bulb through the seal. As soon as any appreciable amount of oxygen is sucked in the bulb will go out in a brilliant display of light as the filament instantly burns up. A very violent explosion of sorts on a miniature scale.

But for sure the bulb has not got long to live. The LL bulbs are good - you have to buy them in sets. They do not sell only one. Before you buy from them, however, check Corvette Central (and probably others). They may offer the same bulb for less money. They are all made by Wagner, and go through middlemen before they get to you. Now you know why they are so expensive. -Dan-

[Edward J.]

Re: Milky Headlamp

Pace car Jeff on E/BAY sells them also at a great price.He is a member here also.