MTFCA Forum

We removed and replaced a headlight reflector for a Model 16 yesterday. I'll post the pictures here for general interest as I wasn't able to find clear photos of what the logo of an original glass reflector looked like. It's unfortunate that the existing reflector was so badly cracked all the way through in multiple areas, there was no saving it, but I had another ready to go in it's place. My feeling is that it's original, but perhaps others may be able to determine if that is indeed so.

Best Wishes All -

More pictures here, along with replacement reflector logo.

The original reflectors are not all made to the same specifications, so finding a matching replacement is difficult. When I had my E and J lamps restored I managed to find a second reflector of the same diameter, but the mirrored surface was more curved on one. This affects the focus of the lamps. When my two are correctly focused, one burner is forward of the other. In daylight, this difference is is seen as a larger dark circle on the reflector at the back of the lamp. It is no big deal.

Allan from down under.

The wedges were pot metal, and the photos above show what happens. We made them for years, and they are probably available still from Langs.

Lancaster Glass closed in 2007. At one time, perhaps on the 1970-80s, they still made gas light reflectors.

This is very interesting to me. My ‘13 was first turned out as a fresh restoration over 20 years ago with replacement metal reflectors. There’s no way they would be as effective as proper silvered lenses, but it’s a moot point. Ever since I bought the car seven years ago I’ve been meaning to light the gas lamps, and haven’t done it yet. I’m certainly NOT going to drive it anywhere after dark anyway.

Nevertheless, for the sake of authenticity I wish I could find glass reflectors for my Jno. Browns. A couple of years back I found a pair, but they are just a little too large for my lamps. I haven’t seen any glass reflectors offered for sale since. I’m sure reproducing them would be a losing proposition.