Gasket material - silver headlamp

It is true cork was used in the headlights when new. I have also seen round cotton rope that was original from the factory.

I choose the neoprene tubing for the same reason that I use modern seals in place of the leather that was originally supplied.

It is my opinion that modern materials are superior to the 70 year old technology. If you can put in in your car and it cannot be seen, use it.

I use the cork gasket material available from auto supply stores such as NAPA. Cut to the size you need. It is available by the foot.
CORDially Mike

The reflectors should have small groove the size of the cork, that would hold the cork in place until, the lens puts pressure against it, from then on it cannot move.
K Clark

What would you use to hold the cork in place? Maybe a gasket seal?
Would it tarnish the silver?
Also if the cork got wet from rain, could hold the moisture.

Tom

Yes cork was the original headlight seal very easy to use very easy to get.
My 2 Cents
K Clark

I believe cork was the original material.
CORDially Mike

Thanks Curt.
Good idea. I know the plastic will not react with the silver.

Thanks again,

Tom Roche

Tom - Welcome and lets see more photos of that great Salon Sedan!

Justin

Good to see you on the Forum, Tom. Hope the car and yourself are well.

Go to your local hobby shop and invest in model airplane fuel line. It compresses nicely & seals air tight.

I had my headlight reflectors silver-plated. Now I need to seal the glass lenses onto the reflectors. I'm looking for some kind of sealant or gasket material which will not corrode or discolor the silver.
I'm aware that rubber-based materials can give off sulphur which corrodes silver plating.
Has anyone used RTV for a similar application?
Or has anyone found a suitable material for sealing headlight reflectors to lenses after silver plating?