Sealing tail lights cans on 74 Ambassador

[desertair27]

Hey everyone
I'm looking for tips on sealing up the tail light cans on a 74 Ambassador. Should I seal? Should I use Trempro or a butyl tape?
Thanks
Mike

[Lance M]

The cans are riveted to the cast housing, right? Did you get new machined aluminum cans from VTS?

[desertair27]

My cans thread into the housing. All original stuff.



Here's what I have,doesn't look like any sealant was every used.

[maccamper]

If I remember correctly, there was a felt gasket between the lens and can, that was the only method used to prevent water penetration. It did not work very well. We had so much trouble with the corroded lens sockets when we got the trailer that we gave up and put LED lenses in place of the originals. We put a separate, single LED in front of the fiber optic cable to retain the functionality of the indicator light on the side of the trailer.

Laird

[desertair27]

That's good info, I need to address the lens to can and the can to housing seal. The felt seal didn't work to well that's for sure.

[Lance M]

Mike,
Go to a truck stop or truck and trailer place and get Truck-Lite part number 9021 (red) and 9021W (clear). This is a kit that has the lens, foam gasket and new screws.
Some butyl between the can and housing is a good idea. If you use a sealant, you'll never get the can out again without ruining the can.

[Lance M]

VTS also sells the lenses from Truck-Lite.
4-1/8" Round Lens

[desertair27]

Good call Lance, thanks for the help.
Mike