Guest kaptekarev Posted July 21, 2009 Share Posted July 21, 2009 <hr><!-- google_ad_section_start -->What's the best way to restore the clamshell headlights on a 1965 Riviera? Did the original mechanism work well, should I restore it to stock? Or is it worth redoing it with new actuators? I've heard the original clamshells didn't work well. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JZRIV Posted July 21, 2009 Share Posted July 21, 2009 The original setup works well when properly adjusted and maintained. If it was me I would maintain the original arrangement. Yes it can be a source of frustration but usually its from years of neglect, non-use, and/or the handiwork of incompetant mechanics in days gone by.Of course there can be an exception; for example if your current system is in very poor condition, missing parts, etc, and you happen to be experienced at installing the electric actuators, that might be an attractive option for you. If you have to pay someone to install actuators, you may be further ahead to restore the original system. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Patrick91914 Posted July 22, 2009 Share Posted July 22, 2009 <HR><!-- google_ad_section_start -->What's the best way to restore the clamshell headlights on a 1965 Riviera? Did the original mechanism work well, should I restore it to stock? Or is it worth redoing it with new actuators? I've heard the original clamshells didn't work well.Restore what you have. The key to a long-lasting, well-working system is to ensure that it's adjusted correctly and most importantly lubrication, lubrication, and lubrication and then lube it again. I used to have a service bulletin which described how to adjust and lube the system, but it's lost; however, your can probably get a copy from the ROA's library. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
1965rivgs Posted July 22, 2009 Share Posted July 22, 2009 Buick published several service bulletins on the headlight system but the gran-daddy of them all was a 28 page comprehensive bulletin which includes theory, adjustments and lubrication. The ROA library has this bulletin on disc (thanks Ed Pentico !!) and can be attached to an email for any members requiring this info. Cheers, Tom Mooney ROA Librarian Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest kaptekarev Posted July 22, 2009 Share Posted July 22, 2009 Can someone please email me that service bulletin? My email is Kaptekarev@gmail.com. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Buicklover Posted July 23, 2009 Share Posted July 23, 2009 I would really appreciate a copy of that service bulletin too. My e-mail is:Billrenico@aol.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
1965rivgs Posted July 24, 2009 Share Posted July 24, 2009 Gentlemen, Congratulations on your initiation into the Clamshell Clan. Henceforth, you shall see dreams (or nightmares) of operating clamshells when closing your eyes in quiet reflection or while at rest. Do not be alarmed. This is normal after initial exposure to "The Bulletin". Perhaps you may find comfort in this old ROA proverb... May your clamshells never fail to open in the dark...and close at the next BCA judged meet. :confused: Best of luck, Tom Mooney ROA Librarian Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest ejc65 Posted July 24, 2009 Share Posted July 24, 2009 Can I get a copy as well ejcan2@gmail.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Lowrider70 Posted August 2, 2009 Share Posted August 2, 2009 Buick published several service bulletins on the headlight system but the gran-daddy of them all was a 28 page comprehensive bulletin which includes theory, adjustments and lubrication. The ROA library has this bulletin on disc (thanks Ed Pentico !!) and can be attached to an email for any members requiring this info. Cheers,Tom Mooney ROA LibrarianTom, are you refering to the 'Review' history CD which is advertised along with other ROA merchandise, near the back of the magazine? If so, how can I purchase it? And if not, would you kindly email me a copy of this bulletin too?? Thanks. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bluzharp Posted August 3, 2009 Share Posted August 3, 2009 Just finished my clamshell project. I hooked up with Randy Rymal in Michigan to re-build mine before I became a member of ROA. He turned my good core around in 5 days and did an excellent job. He can be a little surly to deal with, but was very good at helping me diagnose to be sure I needed a motor, and helpful hints like removing the hood latch assy, and putting a sheet of cardboard in front of the A/C condenser to prevent damage going in and out. It's a tight fit and requires some finesse. VERY SATISFYING when finished though. I'm sure my girlfriend and all my friends got a big kick out of my insistance they "Come see my headlights" But hey....to me....it's what a Riv is all about!ArtROA#12350 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cjp69 Posted August 19 Share Posted August 19 Tom, Can I please get a copy of this emailed to me at candjpollak@hotmail.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RIVNIK Posted August 20 Share Posted August 20 Buick headlight service manual available on Amazon. $32+change... must-have for '65 owners. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cjp69 Posted August 25 Share Posted August 25 On 8/19/2024 at 8:30 AM, cjp69 said: Tom, Can I please get a copy of this emailed to me at candjpollak@hotmail.com Nevermind, I have one now. Thanks, Chris Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Craig Balzer Posted August 25 Share Posted August 25 I would really appreciate a copy of that service bulletin too. My e-mail is: craigbalzer14735@gmail.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
1965rivgs Posted August 26 Share Posted August 26 20 hours ago, Craig Balzer said: I would really appreciate a copy of that service bulletin too. My e-mail is: craigbalzer14735@gmail.com Craig, As I emailed in reply to Chris`s request, I am away from my reference materials until late September/early October so I cannot send a copy. If you would like a copy of the bulletin you can email me then. My email address is in every issue of The Riview in the tech advisor`s section. If you have an immediate situation, maybe Chris (above) can send you the copy he obtained? Tom Mooney Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cjp69 Posted August 28 Share Posted August 28 Craig, I emailed you the bulletin. Thanks, Chris Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Craig Balzer Posted August 28 Share Posted August 28 Got it - Thanx 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now