Reproduction Headlight Rims

[ModelTWoods]

Is there still a problem with the fitting of the reproduction headlight rims? For some time I have heard or read that there were problems. I;m trying to decide whether to look for a decent original pair (26-27 plated) or go with some reproductions.

[Allan]

Reproductions are a very distant second choice in my opinion. If you can find good 26-7 brass originals you are well ahead. Besides, the brass ones are easily dent knocked for polishing/replating.

Allan from down under.

[ModelTWoods]

Allan, I totally agree that originals would be my preferred choice. I have some rims but they all would have to be replated, and with the cost of nickel plating these days, you might as well have a bunch of other small parts plated at the same time to make it worth it. I haven't seen an original pair of nickeled rims in the classifieds in a while, but if someone has a decent "driver quality" pair, I'm interested. I have a nickeled radiator shell with very good original nickel plating and I'm looking for a pair of rims in like condition. They don't have to be NOS or mint, but should not have any dents or places where the plating is worn through, and no broken lens clips on the inside.

[George House]

I have a pair of nice original nickel plated rims I’d sell you Terry. Right up the road from you. I’ll send a photo in a few hours….

[ModelTWoods]

I have a pair of nice original nickel plated rims I’d sell you Terry. Right up the road from you. I’ll send a photo in a few hours….

George, if you say they are nice, I won't worry about condition. Awaiting pictures and price with postage.

[John Codman]

I bought a set of repros and couldn't make one of them fit. They are the only parts that I have returned to that supplier. I had the originals replated with Nickle. Fortunately, except for the condition of the plating, the originals were perfect.

[RajoRacer]

Some time ago, the only problem was the 4 rivets were too long - if you did manage to get them on, good luck removing them !!! Last set I received were O.K.

[George House]

Terry,… Found 3. Brass/nickel plated originals. No age cracks. All have 4 intact lens clamps. Your choice of 2- $20 each.

[jiminbartow]

Good thing about originals is not only that they fit properly, but have the Ford script stamped into them.

[Allan]

I have noticed the Ford scrip on many US headlamp rims. It is nowhere near as prevalent on our Canadian sourced cars. Who knows why?

Allan from down under.

[davet753]

The reproductions on mine do have the Ford script on them, and the rivets are (very slightly) larger than the originals. Because of this, it’s a real chore to get the rims off.

[ModelTWoods]

The reproductions on mine do have the Ford script on them, and the rivets are (very slightly) larger than the originals. Because of this, it’s a real chore to get the rims off.

David, When you say the rivets are slightly larger, do you mean they are slightly too long, which could be solved by grinding a slight amount off each one to shorten them, OR do you mean they are slightly larger in diameter?