1957 Corvette Headlight Bucket

[Richard G.]

After many years I am repairing my 1957 Corvette Headlight Buckets along with a poorly repaired fender.
I purchased this car when I was 19 and have owned it for 49 years.
I have been unable to find any replacement buckets for the Corvette. Everyone is out of stock.
I have noticed a similarity to the 1957 sedan buckets, which are available from a multitude of manufactures/re-sellers.
Anyone know if they are the same? If not, I am considering purchasing one to use for parts to repair my badly rusted originals.
Or just using them as is.

Below is a link to the sedan bucket assembly;

https://www.ebay.com/itm/311414646273?chn=ps&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&mkscid=101&itemid=311414646273&targetid=1645685075008&device=c&mktype=&googleloc=9033589&poi=&campaignid=16730423415&mkgroupid=135815925780&rlsatarget=pla-1645685075008&abcId=9300841&merchantid=8123274&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhsmaBhCvARIsAIbEbH4bFl61VDUup0dxhcdxdDCQIR7iwadVAPp-JnIAyCCxvqPfQbN4tXMaAulREALw_wcB

I am just attempting to keep my project moving and could replace them with the proper reproductions when, and if, they become available again.

Also noticed the bonding strips that retains the inner bucket to the fender are $73 each. Seems high for a 2oz part. Maybe someone has a better source for the strip?
Thanks
RickIMG_2821.jpg

[David H.]

Re: 1957 Corvette Headlight Bucket

Richard,

I asked a knowledgeable friend about the buckets. As you suspected, tri 5 chevy will work. He indicated you'll have to change out the headlight chrome bezel standoff` brackets, use the ones from the old buckets.

Dave

[Rod K.]

Re: 1957 Corvette Headlight Bucket

If you're doing fiberglass repair to the fender, can't you also repair the bonding strips? Assume you're referring to the "C" shaped pcs to which the buckets attach. Repairs should be relatively straight forward and never seen after reassembly. Just a thought.

Rod

[Richard G.]

Re: 1957 Corvette Headlight Bucket

Rod;
To explain my situation better I am posting a picture of the fender.
1957.jpg

The 57 is a hotrod and it being rebuilt as such.
I own a Top Flight 1963 so this is being rebuild as a driver.
If my goal was to Top Flight this car I am confident I would be better off to sell it and purchase a better car.
Over the years this car has been a blast. Used to drive it on the Washington beaches.
Wide rear tires made it a fun in the sand. LOL
Maybe had something to do with the rusty buckets, but I doubt it. It was a FL car in the 60's.
Still has the University of Tampa sticker on the back window of the hardtop.
Possibly the strip can be removed and reused.
I guess the time to worry about $75 dollar parts is over!
I did find the 56-57 Corvette RH headlight bucket retainer. Press-molded white for $66 at corvette image.
Only an hour from home.
Appreciate the comments.