Headlight Shields/Guards for Later C3's
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Joined: Feb 2017
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From: Georgia
Headlight Shields/Guards for Later C3's
Hello Everyone,
I was just wondering if anyone knows why the headlight shields/guards were removed from later C3's. I have looked all over and can't find anything on the subject.
Has anyone modified a set to fit the later cars? If so, which version did you use and how difficult was it do?
I was just wondering if anyone knows why the headlight shields/guards were removed from later C3's. I have looked all over and can't find anything on the subject.
Has anyone modified a set to fit the later cars? If so, which version did you use and how difficult was it do?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 2,144
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From: Englewood FL
I wonder if it was a styling issue that GM put them on the earlier C3’s. I previously had a 1969 where the headlight shields were missing. When the headlights were lowered, they were visible thru the grills. The front end looked better after I installed shields.
On 1979 and 80 Corvettes I have owned, the headlights are not visible when lowered without the shields, so they are not needed.
On 1979 and 80 Corvettes I have owned, the headlights are not visible when lowered without the shields, so they are not needed.
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 12,683
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From: Shamong, NJ
The shields were eliminated at the end of 72, likely to save money, but it's also possible that the headlamps weren't as visible behind the 73's redesigned front end and urethane bumper cover. Their removal may have had something to do with the operation of the impact bumper, the regulations required the bumper to sustain an impact with a limited cost to repair. If there were less parts to repair or replace, it would have been easier to meet the limits of the regulations. Maybe they just didn't fit anymore with the impact bumper used from 73 on.
None of these may have had anything to do with why the shields were eliminated, but the main reason GM made changes (other then to meet safety or emission regulations) was always to save money.
None of these may have had anything to do with why the shields were eliminated, but the main reason GM made changes (other then to meet safety or emission regulations) was always to save money.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2007
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From: Omaha NE
2025 c3 ('74-'82) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
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I've always figured the shields were there from '68-'72 to protect the headlights from rocks.
Once they weren't so exposed anymore with the 5 mph nose they were no longer needed. My opinion anyway...
Bottom line: I wouldn't worry about it. I've racked up 78k on mine & I've never lost a headlight to a rock...up or down..
..
Once they weren't so exposed anymore with the 5 mph nose they were no longer needed. My opinion anyway...
Bottom line: I wouldn't worry about it. I've racked up 78k on mine & I've never lost a headlight to a rock...up or down..
..
Last edited by SEVNT6; Jun 19, 2024 at 09:16 PM.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 57
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From: Georgia
Thanks to all of you! I hadn't considered the 5mph bumper.
I have a '73, and yes, the headlights are visible, but you basically have to really look to see them, now that I think of it!
I guess with the extra added length due to the bumper, they aren't as visible; also didn't consider the crash bumper space needed.
I'm in the process of doing my headlight buckets and grilles, so I thought I'd ask because I was considering attempting to put shields in place. But after your responses, I think I'll just let it go and get the rest done!
Thanks again!
I have a '73, and yes, the headlights are visible, but you basically have to really look to see them, now that I think of it!
I guess with the extra added length due to the bumper, they aren't as visible; also didn't consider the crash bumper space needed.
I'm in the process of doing my headlight buckets and grilles, so I thought I'd ask because I was considering attempting to put shields in place. But after your responses, I think I'll just let it go and get the rest done!
Thanks again!
