cone lights in '64 safari

[VIKING]

Hi, I have recently acquired a 64 safari, and I'm looking for a light fixture to match the ones in the picture. These are a ghastly pink color, so I will be painting them as part of the general rehab. I can't find these anywhere. I'm missing a set that was above the side gaucho and I really want to get the same thing if possible. Does anyone know of a source for these?

[InsideOut]

We have the same lights in our 64 GT...but we plan on holding onto them. Unless they have been painted by a PO, they are probably just dirty/discolored giving them a pink cast - ours are a solid beige that matches the original Zolatone pretty well.

Exact matches are no longer available and unfortunately, but I haven't found them on ebay very often in the seven years I have sporatically kept a look out for spares. Fortunately, I haven't needed them and my search hasn't been relentless, so they may be out there. The problem with the ones I have seen is the swivel mechanism breaks and they are then useless - the cone part just dangles if that happens.

I don't think this exact model was used for very many years, in the later 60's they are a spun aluminum version and in earlier models (like our '56) they are fiberglass. Your best bet will be to find someone with a '64 they are dismantling - the forums here is a good place to start - I would suggest placing an ad in the "Wanted" section of the classifieds and following '64 specific threads.

Good luck! Gotta love those transition years! The other thing made form "unobtainium" on our '64 is the red AutoLamp lenses - haven't found replacements in better condition than ours for those either.

Shari

[walter1]

I found one in a salvage yard a while back, but didn't buy it. I can check and see if perhaps it's still there.

I have the same lights in my '64 Safari. Double ones like your photo on both sides over dinette table and a matching single one on the wall at end of side gaucho.

The swivel joint seems prone to breaking. Swivel gently.

I painted the insides gloss white and the outsides almond Krylon. They match the interior zolotone nicely.

[Melody Ranch]

O.K., here is a secret for you parts hunters. (I mentioned this in a thread before so its not really a secret.) These lights were not made specifically for Airstream. I find them regularly, in excellent condition, at boat repair and salvage locations. So far the best area for the search has been the lake areas in the North East and Canada. Old cabin cruisers and nicer boats are best sources. I get 'em in silver and gold.

[VIKING]

Great info, thank you. I have been looking at alot of pictures of 64' Safaris and some have the twin lights there, but I also saw one with no light there at all. I would rather have a double to match the other fixtures if I can come up with one. In fact, if I can come up with two twin lights I would also have one at the end of the gaucho by the refrigerator.
I read in another thread that there were problems with the swivels on these lights, but I have great swivels and they stay where you leave them! Lucky, I guess.
Which lights do you find yourself using most often, the ceiling light or the front reading lights? I may be re-wiring before very long also. Is there any place I should consider adding lighting or other electrical outlets? Any ideas would be appreciated.
Thanks, Rich

[centennialman]

There is also a thread, here on the forum, on how to repair the ball mechanisms so that you can get these lamps working again. Check in the search area and you will find it.

[dreadydreame]

I am looking like crazy but can't find the thread about fixing the cone lights- I remember reading it and it had pictures of fixing with vice grips or something. Anyone know where it is?

[ts8501]

I bet this will help you!
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f37/...der-22066.html

-Tim

[ts8501]

Here is the single post:
http://www.airforums.com/forums/show...8&postcount=12

[dreadydreame]

thank you so much- that is the one I was looking for
now if we can just get our lights fixed!

[Skycop]

I just wanted to say "thanks" for posting this thread. I have been looking for those posts on fixing the reading lights for about 3 days now! Thanks again!