C3 headlight assemblies

[John A.]

Currently have both C3 headlamp assemblies on the bench for cleaning and renewal. Can anybody comment on the following?

What type of grease was used to lubricate the various pins and the end bearings (if any)?
What type of blackout (if any) was used over the zinc chromate primer? Or was it basically red primer and body paint overspray?
What were the two (steel) lamp buckets finished with? High temp black? I assume they were installed after the painting process..???

Thanks

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 headlight assemblies

John-----

1) Very little grease was used in PRODUCTION on the components of the headlamp door assembly. The headlamp adjusting screws were lubed with a grease which is similar to white lithium grease available commonly in hardware or automotive stores. Many of the bushings were white nylon and these were not lubed. The original-style bearings were sealed. All of the pivot points can be lubed in SERVICE, though. A spray-type lube is most convenient. I use WD-40.

2)No blackout was used on the underside portion of the doors, although some overspray of primer/body color MAY be found there. The headlight mechanism FRAMES were component-painted semi-gloss black.

3) The headlight capsules were painted a gloss black. The finish appears to me to be a "baked-on" type finish. I don't know what the thernmal properties were of the paint that was used, but I would certainly use a high heat paint in restoring these. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

[John A.]

Re: C3 headlight assemblies

Thanks Joe - your comments are always appreciated!