MTFCA Forum

I am looking for a usable headlight door for one of the Victor 2 gas headlights on the 1914 runabout.

Can some one help me?

(This is also posted on the parts part of the forum)

Thanks
Andre
Belgium

Andre, I bought new ones from the vendors and transferred the hardware from the originals to them. I was very happy with how they came out. Perfect fit.

Chaffin's had these parts a few months ago.

RV - how did you accurately transfer the hardware? I need to do this but was worried about getting everything back in the right place.

Paul

It's quite simple. Since the rim is uniform, first install the door half of the hinge into the steel half in the bucket and put the rim in place on the bucket any old way. Then drill one rivet hole and install a small machine screw and nut, either a #4 or a #6, I forget which. Tighten the nut, make any adjustments needed, then drill the other holes and install screws there too. Put the rim in place again on the bucket, then put the latch in place and tighten the big knurled nut to hold it while you repeat the hinge drilling and screw/nut procedure. Once both hinge and latch are mounted and adjusted for smooth operation, drive out the hinge pin and take the door over to the bench vise that has a good sized punch installed in it vertically, to serve as a rivet buck. Then remove one screw at a time and replace it with a rivet. I recommend annealing the rivets; makes it night and day easier. If you need the rivets let me know; I had to buy a pound of them as I recall and they must still be around here somewhere.

Thanks R.V. for the information and the help with the way to set the door on the light.
At this time I just need to finish (Payment) the order of the door and a few other parts at Chaffins Garage.

Andre
Belgium

Thanks RV, I have made note of the procedure. It may be a couple of months before I get to this as I have a number of other projects ahead of that job. I like the idea of using nuts & bolts to get everything lined up. I have never done any riveting so this will be a learning process.

Paul

Well, Paul, the only real trick is to anneal the rivets. Once that's done, you won't believe how easy it is.