MTFCA Forum

How well does the head lamp removal tool (that is listed in Snyder's and Lang's catalogs) work.

I do note that one has a T-6575-T number and the other lists it as 1243. There is a significant difference in price. I wonder whether they are the same tool.

They look to me to be the same tool. It's designed to fit over the rivets to hold the rim while you push and turn. I've never used them for fear of scratching the rim.

I've never had any trouble getting my rims off - just push in with both hands and twist counterclockwise. If they haven't been off in awhile a little penetrating oil around the edge might help.

I had great hopes when I bought the tool but had mixed results on 4 Model T’s even after working on the buckets and rims. I get the rims off better with my bare hands. Though the tool is uber stiff it slips off the rivet heads for me.

The tool works for me on stubborn rims. Lots of penetrating oil first, then pad the arms with rag. The rag gives more grip and won’t scratch and works to wedge the tool snug.

Like the leverage the tool gives, plus can push a hip into the tool bar to get the reflector spring compressed , while twisting the tool bar with both hands.

If I have a stubborn one, take it off, lay face down on a piece of carpet or padding, push down from the rear and twist.

There is a diagram in the Ford Service Bulletins for making up a rim removal tool similar to Steve's without the hinge -it's a much better design than the current ones available - IMO.

I made one similar to Steve's. It just has a loop on the end where Steve put the hinge. It works very well. I usually try to remove it without the tool, but if it is too tight, I use the tool.
If you are afraid of scratching the rim, use a thin rag such as an old T shirt between the tool and the rim. Trick is to pinch the rim tight so you don't slip off the rivets and push in with one hand as you turn with the other hand.
Norm

Try using a slightly dampened chamois.

What's wrong with using your two hands and pushing in and turning? It always works for me, and I don't mess up the paint either!

The best tool is the one you have. Place a thigh of one leg against the front of the light. Hands on each side of the ring. Lean forward as if you are trying to push the car with your leg while rotating the ring counter clockwise. Hasn't failed me yet.

I’m with Mark and remove the Bucket from the Vehicle, place it face down on insertion rubber, press down and turn
the Bucket. It gives more area to place the palms of your hands and push squarely. The Rim is stationary and the bucket rotates
Anti Clockwise. It still can be awkward but check that the bucket openings, and guide tracks are in good condition for the rivets
to pass over easily before reassembling making it all good for next time.
Alan in Western Australia