Headlamp rim type & supplier

[gouldsborough7]

For a change, this is just a quick question!
The headlamp rims on my Berli are corroding. The previous owner was keen on brass fittings, but I suspect mine are not the real thing, otherwise why would they corrode?

I am thinking of changing either the rims or the whole 7 inch dia headlamp units. The rims would ovbiously be cheaper, but getting the correct ones might be a problem. I am guessing that they are original Mini design. Any know what's likely?

If I buy new lamps, the 7 inch type that fit on Caterhams would look too small. The basic Berli lamp body is much bigger. Any thoughts on this as well?
Cheers
Mike

[Dane_Rescueman]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

I have the original, bog standard, GRP "Sabrinas" on my Berli. These take the standard 7" headlamp. I use the Lucas Tripod type. You must have bigger shells if the 7" is too small to fit. NB Some Caterhams are using the 5" shells.

[gouldsborough7]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Dane
I think we are at cross-purposes. My Berli has what you describe as GRP "Sabrinas", taking 7inch Lucas-style lamps. As the cheapest option, I want to replace the narrow rims (surrounds) on the light units.

I wouldn't mind changing the light units for more efficient models, but would still need to change the rims to match.

Getting rid of the "Sabrinas" altogether would be a bit drastic (expensive), especially if the only replacement was the type fitted to Caterhams and other Sevens. I think their small size would look odd on the Berli, having been used to the "Sabrinas".

Mike

[dogoncrazy]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Mike
try Stafford vehicle components for rims/light units

[gouldsborough7]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Thanks Alan
I hadn't thought to look at Stafford. Got everything I want, depending on the cash situation as well as deciding whether to keep the Sabrinas on not.
Cheers
Mike

[greyV8pete]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Hi Mike. Also have a look at www.holden.co.uk and www.carbuildersolutions.co.uk
they do headlamp units too. Peter.

[James]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Hi Mike,
I have the chrome 7 inch type that fit on Caterhams on my Berlinettas. The oldest have now been on the (blue) car for 20 years. They are admittedly smaller than the GRP originals but look quite OK. I recently bought a new pair from Jags of Burlesdon on Ebay for £60 complete with reflectors, rims and bulbs. I enclose a picture for you to see.
I have since found an American site that sells larger shells (more like the GRP originals) for 7" reflectors in stainless steel and/or chrome at really good prices (http://www.nostalgic-products.com/)
Good hunting!
James

[macdonald.dm]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Hi Mike.

Are you still running with the original 'sealed-beam' units? If so, you are in for a treat!

See my post: http://www.marlinownersclub.com/forum.php?read=3782&cat=1#n3782

The company I got mine from (from ebay) are called: gpautospares-1. They are advertising units for the Escort Mk1&2 at the moment, although I think mine would have been classic Mini items - no idea how they differ; they look pretty much the same! Current prices seem to be around £32 delivered, tho' I got mine in an auction for around £25 3 years ago.

The chrome rims are also classic Mini items, and there are plenty out there. I guess they must vary in quality, tho', as their prices certainly do - from around £4 each to £14+! If you can get them in SS as opposed to chrome (unless on brass), then that could be worth it. (Can't say I've seen them, tho'.)

I must say, SVC's AS700 units - polished SS, so no rust - look the business and seem pretty reasonable for what they are. Hmm envy...

[gouldsborough7]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Thanks guys
I've just taken the plunge and ordered some items from Stafford. They appear to offer a fair selection at reasonable prices.

I was tempted to order new sidelights of the torpedo type, but surprisingly their prices for these were much higher than say fog-lamps. Somehow this seems the wrong way around with what you are getting for the money.

Anyone know of a reasonable source for the sidelights?
Cheers
Mike

[greyV8pete]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Mike. Have a look in your local motorcycle dealers, the ones that sell "bits" not just new bikes! I have sourced parts there for my Hunter mods; mirror clamps to hang my spotlights from the headlamp bar; small foglights to fit next to the front flasher lamps. They do a lot of stainless stuff too.
P.S. Visit with the hood down to show that you emphathise with the bikers :-) Peter.

[gouldsborough7]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Thanks Peter for the tip.
I've got 3 motor-bike shops in my vicinity, so it would do no harm to check them out. I remember buying some mirrors a few years back for my Robin Hood kit. Think they were intended for a Yamaha, but did the job just fine.

Not sure about arriving with hood down, though, as my Berli is currently running with the hard-top fitted! Soft-top goes back on in better weather.

Cheers
Mike

[empirescaffold]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Hi Mike, I,ve just bought two 1130 Torpedo side lights in SS complete from Stafford Vehicle Co Tel 01827 67714 Cost £25.00 each and £6.00 postage. Hope this helps. Regards Barry

[gouldsborough7]

Re: Headlamp rim type & supplier

Thanks Barry
Funny thing, when I ordered the other bits from Stafford, I spoke to the guy about sidelights and he was talking about much bigger money. I'll have another look at their web-site, and might pursue this if my wallet can cope!
Cheers
Mike