68 headlight capsule questions

[Jeff P.]

[Joe L.]

Re: 68 headlight capsule questions

I have pictures of my capsules. 1st is the left set . Second is the right set , and third is a letter. From outside driver bulb going left the letters are A D B C. Any significance to the letters. Couldn’t find anything in judging guide. What is the correct Finish? Thanks in advance, and also if they come out sideways.

Jeff------


The correct GM nomenclature for these parts is RING. Capsule is the nomenclature for the complete assembly including RING, sealed beam, stainless trim ring, and attaching screws.

Each of the rings is specific to each of the 4 positions on a car. These rings were common to most other GM cars of the 1958+ period although there were some minor variations over the years.

A= left outer= GM #5950507

B= right inner= GM #5950500

C= right outer= GM #5950513

D=left inner= GM #5950506

The above rings were used from ABOUT 1968. Earlier rings were slightly different, had different markings and different part numbers. The 1967-69 period was a period of transition as far as these rings go. Earlier style or later style rings may be found during these years, even on the same car.

The earlier rings had a round hole rather than the "square" rear hole of later rings. They were marked L-1, L-2, R-1, and R-2. The earlier and later style rings are functionally interchangeable for the specific positions.

As far as finish goes, these rings were either painted semi gloss black or were zinc plated. Sometimes, rings of different finish can be found on the same car. I expect that the GM specs allowed for either finish. Mostly, I have seen the black painted finish on the later style rings.

Keep in mind that these things, used across all GM car and truck lines, were being manufactured by the millions. So, different suppliers probably manufactured them. Some suppliers might have produced only a single part number for a specific position.