windborn
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Post by windborn on Mar 15, 2016 5:58:27 GMT -8
Before I jump on the free shipping for the new VTS teardrop marker lights (thanks novrmyhed for the tip:http://vintagetrailertalk.freeforums.net/thread/6255/vts-marker-lights ) I wanted to see what y'all thought about the lights I have. They're Bargman and working, but very very rusty. Are they worth trying to save?  |
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chriss
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Post by chriss on Mar 15, 2016 17:59:29 GMT -8
If your lenses are not cracked or faded, I would try and salvage the base. Wire brush or bead blast, then maybe aluminum colored powdercoat to protect it.
I replaced mine with the VTS ones several years back because my lenses were wasted and a previous owner butchered the bases for some different light sockets. I like the aluminum base of the new ones, but the lens is already fading and cracking. Wish someone would repro the bargman lens.
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SusieQ
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Post by SusieQ on Mar 16, 2016 6:59:09 GMT -8
Your lens in the pic looks good! I agree with Chriss. I'm a believer in saving anything salvageable. Wish I knew new then ( when I cracked my tail light lens removing it, think I'd just replace it anyway) what I know now. It all adds up in the end. You can always change the bulb to an LED if that is important to you.
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windborn
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Post by windborn on Mar 16, 2016 8:07:33 GMT -8
Ok, you have me convinced  I was going to just get new ones because it seemed like getting that rust off would be really hard, but you're right about it adding up in the end |
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chriss
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Post by chriss on Mar 18, 2016 18:07:33 GMT -8
Ok, you have me convinced I was going to just get new ones because it seemed like getting that rust off would be really hard, but you're right about it adding up in the end FWIW, I've spied many of those teardrops on older mobile homes in trailer parks. Many have been painted over the years during renovations. The base and lens could be in excellent condition under the paint. Locally, we have quite a few mobile home parks going away due to redevelopment and the trailers are getting demolished. |
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Monabones
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Post by Monabones on Mar 18, 2016 18:24:01 GMT -8
I have the exact same markers which I saved. I soaked the bases in white vinegar for several days and the rust came off. I cleaned with wire wheel to get a shine on them. Then used a rattle can of clear coat so no more rust. Its been 3 years and they have no rust. Save them if you can.
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windborn
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Post by windborn on Mar 19, 2016 3:32:46 GMT -8
I have the exact same markers which I saved. I soaked the bases in white vinegar for several days and the rust came off. I cleaned with wire wheel to get a shine on them. Then used a rattle can of clear coat so no more rust. Its been 3 years and they have no rust. Save them if you can. Oh white vinegar works? That's great! I'm always hesitant to use the harsh chemicals. Thanks for the tip! |
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Monabones
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Post by Monabones on Mar 19, 2016 11:43:48 GMT -8
I have the exact same markers which I saved. I soaked the bases in white vinegar for several days and the rust came off. I cleaned with wire wheel to get a shine on them. Then used a rattle can of clear coat so no more rust. Its been 3 years and they have no rust. Save them if you can. Oh white vinegar works? That's great! I'm always hesitant to use the harsh chemicals. Thanks for the tip! Yes white or cider vinegar works great. Just drop them in a plastic tray or bowl. Let them soak 2 or 3 days. Any small leftover rust will come off easy with steel wool or wire wheel. Just make sure you use a air compressor to blow off water have rinse. Otherwise you will get rust again. I sprayed with clearcoat after I air dryed the parts. |
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windborn
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Post by windborn on Mar 20, 2016 5:16:29 GMT -8
Perfect! Is clear coat just a type of spray paint?
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mel
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Post by mel on Mar 20, 2016 5:38:55 GMT -8
Does everyone clear coat their marker lights? should I do it with my brand new ones?
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nccamper
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Post by nccamper on Mar 20, 2016 5:46:46 GMT -8
I think VTS recommends a coat of spray (rattle can) lacquer to keep the new lights from rusting.
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chriss
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Post by chriss on Mar 20, 2016 6:33:23 GMT -8
I think VTS recommends a coat of spray (rattle can) lacquer to keep the new lights from rusting. That's interesting because they state they are stainless steel. These look pretty good. I may have to order a set. Are they only available as leds? |
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nccamper
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Post by nccamper on Mar 20, 2016 6:56:31 GMT -8
"Are they only available as leds?"
A good question. I'm not sure.
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mel
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Post by mel on Mar 20, 2016 7:15:48 GMT -8
I think VTS recommends a coat of spray (rattle can) lacquer to keep the new lights from rusting. That's interesting because they state they are stainless steel. These look pretty good. I may have to order a set. Are they only available as leds? I looks like there is only LEDs on their website |
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Monabones
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Post by Monabones on Mar 20, 2016 7:31:10 GMT -8
Perfect! Is clear coat just a type of spray paint? Rustoleum or Valspar Clear is what I have used in the past. I even sprayed it in my new marker lights for my Winnie. The reason is even though they are chrome the quality from China is suspect. I clear cost so no rust can form and extra protection. |
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I was going to just get new ones because it seemed like getting that rust off would be really hard, but you're right about it adding up in the end
