RE: [ihc] liquid plastic?

["John M. Adams" <jma@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Thanks for the ideas, Ed. I thought about using Scout II fixtures, but the
problem there is that on the 800, there's this little protrusion where the
lights are mounted, kind of like a flat saddle. It's considerably shorter
than the rectangular lenses on either the Scout II, or the oval ones on the
Travelall. The opening is 1.5" x 4", and the bezel, which just about matches
the dimension of the "platform", is 2" x 5". To create a larger opening
there would be problematic because it would soon go beyond the flat surface,
and out into the contour of the platform. On your 800B, that platform must
be longer, or no longer present (?). I think that's partly why
"scoutparts.com" and others command such high prices for the 800 lenses.
(The other unique quality is that the lamps are situated on the inboard side
of the fixture, not centered, and the lenses have a corresponding pattern
molded into them. I don't really care about that aspect, however.) The last
time I saw a pair go on Ebay, it ended around $80, and that was a used,
slightly scratched set. I'm not paying that kind of money (or more) for two
pieces of plastic...

The aftermarket / sealed beam idea is one I'll look into. Maybe there's
something out there that will fit, or at least come close enough to work
with a *slight* enlargement of the hole. I'll start looking around. And
you're correct about the nibbler - any project which "mandates" a new tool
is a good thing! Erin, bless her heart, has never questioned that. I am a
"lucky dog", for certain.

I think I will send you a couple of pics, just in case you come across a
likely pair. I have this impression of Iowa boneyards that may be overblown,
but I think you are fortunate to be living there, in "Binder parts heaven".

Thanks,

John A.



> -----Original Message-----
> From: Ed Sohm [mailto:idaemes@domain.elided]
> Sent: Monday, September 13, 2004 8:51 AM
> To: 'John M. Adams'; 'ihc digest'
> Subject: RE: [ihc] liquid plastic?
>
>
> John,
>
> A couple options that I can think of, though neither involves making new
> lenses.  My 800B uses the same fixtures and lenses as a ScoutII and a D
> series.  They are bigger than your current ones.  Since you aren't
> worried about the Ted Ornas award I would think you could make them fit
> with a little air nibbler work.  The other option would be sealed beams
> like the truckers use. The kind with a rubber gasket that they fit into
> and a real ground wire. I used the round ones on the rear of my 800.
> They don't have built in reflectors like my old tail lights originally
> had, but they work reliably.  Imagine that!  Taillights that work and
> are red instead of pink, and bright! I feel the oval ones would fit
> nicely in your application. You should be able to get it done for ~$20
> (unless you spring for LED) and would be able to buy replacements at any
> truck stop or farm store. You can even get chrome trim for them if you
> don't like the "euro" look. You would have to buy a nibbler ($35) of
> course.  More tools!!  Your wife seemed to be pretty good about humoring
> your hobby.
>
> If you don't like those options, e-mail me a pic of what you have and
> I'll kee an eye out, there are few 800s in the yards around here.
> Holler if you want the later style, I have some around.
>
> Ed