D-Series Headlight Gromets

[JamesBe1 82]

So, since I have my tractor in pieces to replace the engine, I figured I would strip and paint a bunch of parts. I took the headlight assembly apart, and was going to strip and repaint it, but the paint wasn't really all that bad. Also the decal and pinstriping were in good condition too. I decided to just mask them off and repaint after a good cleaning.

The headlight bezels were a different story. They had a fair amount of overspray from previous paint jobs. Some of it was blue paint. There was also oxidation of the rubber, but no dry rot at all. After enquiring in one of the threads about restorer/protectant, Andy (wheelhorseman) recommended silicone grease from the hardware store. I didn't have any on hand or feel like buying some, but I had a tube of vacuum grease around. I figured it was close enough.

Here are the shots of before and after I tried removing the overspray with WD-40. That myth is busted as far as I'm concerned. I had to use a sanding pad and dishwashing soap with hot water to get most of it off.

Here are some shots of before and after the vacuum grease treatment. Not too bad, but we'll have to see how it hold up.

Here are some shots of the bezels back in place with the lights installed.

Here is the assembly back on the tractor. I shoulda wiped the dust off of the grill before taking pics. Sorry about that.

So, what do you all think?

[KC9KAS 4,742]

Looks nice and shiney!

Those "D's" just look so massive!

[wheeledhorseman 575]

You've done a good job there James and they've come up well.

I shoulda wiped the dust off of the grill before taking pics.

Easily overlooked and after all, if you ain't makin' dust then you ain't working hard enough!

(At least the grille's on square - I famously photographed my 'D' for the resto thread not realising that I hadn't put the grille back on properly. Doh!

Andy

[1maidenfan 202]

Looking good :wicked:

[312Hydro 474]

Looks great! Those "D"s are sure growing on me!