Tail light question

[harleycontracter]

I posted I was looking for tail lights for my 30/31.Some one asked me what body style ?? My 1st A build. I thought they were all the same .. If not what do I need for a roadster > Thanks

[tnhammond]

Here is a good list of the body styles.



/Users/timhammond/Documents/Model A Stuff/ Model A - Body Styles.pdf

[tnhammond]

Sorry, missed the attachment with the first reply

[harleycontracter]

I know the body styles. Was asking if tail lights are different on any body style Txs

[Joe K]

Originally Posted by harleycontracter

I know the body styles. Was asking if tail lights are different on any body style Txs

Taillight differentiate themselves into "drum style" (Mostly 28-29 but transitioned later in '29) and "teacup style" (late 29 through the end.)

Commercial vehicle taillights in each group were generally painted gloss black on the body, but the lens retainer/closure were usually nickel plated. The non-commercial were generally nickel both body and lens retainer.

Details varied somewhat. Brass bodied types nickel plated have been seen in both drum and teacup, and "Duolamp" stampings on the top vary some. You will need a judging standards to get it mostly right on this.

Attachment to the car itself varied with body style - again refer to judging standards.

IIRC, the lens for the taillight were red on top and red on the bottom. Some aftermarket offer a "blue dot" in the top (supposedly increases visibility) or "Stop" in yellow lettering. (ditto) There are others varieties offered including Yellow on top, red on the bottom, or visa versa.


Joe K

[harleycontracter]

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Great thank you. Not building a car to be judged. I'll look into see what tea cup styles look like Thanks much !!

[Bob Bidonde]

The correct tail light looks like this one. It is made of stainless steel and should have an amber color to the lens on top, and red on the bottom. The brake light is amber. You can get an LED conversion set for this tail lamp, and I highly recommend it if you plan on driving your car in modern traffic. Turn signals are a must have addition for safety.
The Philips screws are not authentic, but so I would replace them.

[Bob Bidonde]

I do not have a photo of an original 1930 / 1931 tail light in my library. Somone please post some photos of one.