Headlight bucket springs


IHC in the early to mid-fifties.

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Posts: 24

Joined: Thu Oct 08, 2015 3:08 pm

Location: West Virginia

Post Tue Mar 30, 2021 8:32 pm

Headlight bucket springs

My headlights are falling out because the little springs that pull the aimable holder of the bulb back into the bucket, are rusted away.

I finally found enough bits of the springs in my parts fleet to feel sure what the spring looks like. I have ordered stainless spring wire to make myself a few, that won't rust away. It occurs to me that I can't make a good spring without making a proper tool to make them. Once I make the toool, I could make a bunch. Any interest?

Golden Jubilee
Golden Jubilee

Posts: 8946

Joined: Thu Dec 27, 2012 12:45 pm

Location: Canada's left Coast

Post Tue Mar 30, 2021 9:23 pm

Re: Headlight bucket springs

https://www.mcmaster.com/tension-springs/
https://www.amazon.ca/25-Headlight-Adju ... B0040CYYY2
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/c4/he ... 9718472296
Don't waste your time.
EDIT:
Ask yourself, "How long did the OEM springs last?" Add that to your age. Will you still be around when the replacements let go?
The original springs in my 1940 Ford are over 80 years old and in good condition. I bought complete new headlight buckets from Bob Drake Reproductions.
Stainless steel may not be the answer you are looking for. Stainless steel in contact with the steel headlight bucket components will cause the stainless steel to corrode at the contact points. Google it, if you doubt this.
Last edited by nikkinutshop on Sun Apr 04, 2021 4:29 pm, edited 1 time in total.
I would rather have tools I do not need than to need tools I do not have
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Golden Jubilee
Golden Jubilee

Posts: 759

Joined: Thu Nov 29, 2012 6:44 pm

Location: New Salisbury, IN USA

Post Fri Apr 02, 2021 6:04 am

Re: Headlight bucket springs

Nikki has it right.

Go to the second link. IH used GM/ACDelco/Guide headlights and hardware.

Common Chevy parts, in other words.
My posts contain my own opinions...your mileage may vary, void where prohibited, objects in the mirror may be closer than they appear, and alcohol may intensify any side effects.

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