Forum

[Howard 612]

I have a slight headlamp problem. I am using our host's repro headlamp, with the ammeter and switch, details below. The lamp unit itself I am very pleased with, but the lighting ability is not very good. There is hardly any difference between dip and full beam, and the light is all over the place. In fact when I went for my MOT the tester was doubtful about it, so I said "Well I just fitted a new pre-focus bulb" at which point he burst out laughing. So my question is......... has anyone fitted a better reflector/bulb in one of these and which type fits? I am hoping to find a better reflector with a lens pattern that will not look out of place on my 50's Redditch Bullet.

HEADLAMP WITH SWITCH AND AMMETER
Picture of HEADLAMP WITH SWITCH AND AMMETER

This reproduction headlamp was originally fitted to the pre 1954 Bullets. We have fitted it to our 1950's Bullet (as shown in the Kits section of this online catalogue) and think that it helps change the whole appearance of the bike. It is supplied complete with bulbs, ammeter and light switch.

Note: Will require a small wiring change to the bulb holder.
PART No. DESCRIPTION PRICE
LU/51829 HEADLAMP C/W PANEL, PATTERN £60.00

[Howard 612]

Oops that copy and paste lost it's formatting... but its part number LU/51829 on Accessories>Electrical>Lighting about 3/4 the way down the page.

[Les H]

Hi Howard. I have never owned a Hitchcocks unit but as far as I can see they are a copy of the Lucas 7” British Pre-Focus unit (BFB) Replicas are available with the word LUCAS on the glass, but other versions are similar without the word are also available, and these versions are of similar quality but cheaper. Bear in mind these replicas are probably made in India and are of somewhat inferior quality to the originals. I use a Quartz Halogen BFP bulb in my ones. The Lucas unit should produce a near pencil beam on main and a good dip angle. The halogens are only available as a special product sold by a Car/Bike electrical on-line shop. Can’t mention name, you'll have to search.

[Les H]

British Pre-Focus is BPF of course....not BFB or BFP!...I was rushing to write my reply up again after loosing the lot just after I had finished it....done.

[Les H]

Also, make sure the bulb is not the problem. The one you have might have a construction fault so you'll be wasting money if you buy another reflector and the bulb is the culprit.

[Howard 612]

Thanks for those points Les. I'm fairly sure the bulb is OK as the replacement has given identical results to the original, but I did not know there were Quatz BPF bulbs available, I'll try one before chasing a better reflector.

[Les H]

Done a google search, but the shop I mean might not show up but is the best as he has a complete range of halogen bulbs he's had specially made...norbsa might help....and not sold by Mr H either.

[Howard 612]

Great, thanks Les, I had no idea the genuine Lucas ones were still available. I am looking forward to some better lighting now that the dark winter nights are with us.

[Les H]

Hi Howard. Just to reiterate. The NEW Lucas headlamp units are not of the same quality as the originals...certainly not the ones from the supplier of the halogen bulbs...they are believed to be sourced in India, hands on inspection would be better before purchase....not sure how fussy you are though.

[Rolf]

Try Paul Goff

He has a quartz bulb which will fit - they very bright.

He also has new headlight units