Appleton spotlights

[kkoacolonel]

Let's see who has Appletons on their sled?

[SlowandLow63]

I just put a set together yesterday... but not for my sled...

I'd really like a set for my shoebox though. Can't beat that look.

[bonesy]

Here are mine:

[Chad s]

This was over a year ago... Its now turning into a totally different car!

I have an addiction to Appletons though!

[kkoacolonel]

I have a set for my 51.Just have to go in garage and install them

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by kkoacolonel

I have a set for my 51.Just have to go in garage and install them

PICTURES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! PLEASE!!!!!!

I take it you have a thing for Appltons Colonel, maybe we can admit ourselves to AA (Appleton Annonomous) together!

[Ron]

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by Ron

That car is so nice.

[kkoacolonel]

Yes it sure is.

[rodknocker]

Other than Chads, is there a good source to buy one or are these things hard to find?

[kkoacolonel]

Well,you can try ebay.but a nice set will cost ya!.

[kkoacolonel]

I sold Kustom7777 a set for his 41 Cad.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by kkoacolonel

Well,you can try ebay.but a nice set will cost ya!.

Yea, the value of these on ebay has gotten quite high. You see ones that need a resto to be really nice, go for $300-400 each lately.

[chopolds]

We've gottem...thanks Billy for putting them together!
BTW, Chad, or Joe....one of them seemed too "loose" even after assembling them. It flops over on the truck....do the handles lock them in position, or is there something we missed when putting them together...Billy may be able to explain better, he did both, and only one does this!

[Kustom7777]

Originally Posted by kkoacolonel

I sold Kustom7777 a set for his 41 Cad.

haha,,,i sold ron the set he has on his green ford (above)

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by chopolds

We've gottem...thanks Billy for putting them together!
BTW, Chad, or Joe....one of them seemed too "loose" even after assembling them. It flops over on the truck....do the handles lock them in position, or is there something we missed when putting them together...Billy may be able to explain better, he did both, and only one does this!

I think you are missing the inner part that screws to your garnish molding. It The rod passes through it, and its basicly a collet with a tab to attach to the garnish, and you can control the tension with it.

If you need these for the truck, I can ship you a pair tomorrow.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by Chad s

I think you are missing the inner part that screws to your garnish molding. It The rod passes through it, and its basicly a collet with a tab to attach to the garnish, and you can control the tension with it.

If you need these for the truck, I can ship you a pair tomorrow.

Oops, I only have one of the collet ones. Im do have 2 with a but and bolt pinch tensioner.

[chopolds]

Thanks for the offer, Chad...lets wait til Billy sees this, he knows what he put inside the spotlights, I didn't see!

[Bad Bob]

I've got a pair of Loraines that are really nice,but I need some new handles. Any ideas? I'd like to put them on my 49 Merc,but I have to change the steering column first. Does anybody make handles?

[skooch]

I picked up a perfect 112 off ebay unused in its original box. It had a buy it now price of $110. I got lucky, it had been up a total of 3 minutes before I snagged it.

[MBL]

I know I'm gonna get jumped for this, but I have always wondered why folks love Appletons and don't realy like Unity or Perfection spots. Is it just the shape? Or is it the rarity?
Tim
MBL

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by MBL

I know I'm gonna get jumped for this, but I have always wondered why folks love Appletons and don't realy like Unity or Perfection spots. Is it just the shape? Or is it the rarity?
Tim
MBL

Its the shape, and the appleton 552/112 is what was used in the early custom years.

[Kustom7777]

Originally Posted by skooch

I picked up a perfect 112 off ebay unused in its original box. It had a buy it now price of $110. I got lucky, it had been up a total of 3 minutes before I snagged it.

wow!!!!!!!!!!!! now thats what i call being in the right place at the right time

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by skooch

I picked up a perfect 112 off ebay unused in its original box. It had a buy it now price of $110. I got lucky, it had been up a total of 3 minutes before I snagged it.

You are extremely lucky!

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by Bad Bob

I've got a pair of Loraines that are really nice,but I need some new handles. Any ideas? I'd like to put them on my 49 Merc,but I have to change the steering column first. Does anybody make handles?

Do you need just the plastic part, or the whole handle assembly?

Ive been working on re-casting the plastic handles for a while. They are often cracked and/or warped, and I have a mold of a perfect one being made.

[showrod]

Originally Posted by Bad Bob

I've got a pair of Loraines that are really nice,but I need some new handles. Any ideas? I'd like to put them on my 49 Merc,but I have to change the steering column first. Does anybody make handles?

why not do a Hirohata style handle? I've also noticed the less attractive apleton & Lorraine , spots sell for way less and the handles and ends look the same I assume they interchange, but I have never done it myself.

[belair]

My olds has fake ones.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by showrod

why not do a Hirohata style handle? I've also noticed the less attractive apleton & Lorraine , spots sell for way less and the handles and ends look the same I assume they interchange, but I have never done it myself.

They are interchangeable. Any appleton/lorraine from the early 40's (perhaps even earlier) to the end (mid 50's as far as my research shows) are interchangeable.

I like the 112 style handles myself, but you will see that in all of the early customs (except for a few westergard cars) they had the later(late 40's-mid 50's) 552 era handles, thats because all of those cars had Appleton 552's, not 112's!

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by chopolds

Thanks for the offer, Chad...lets wait til Billy sees this, he knows what he put inside the spotlights, I didn't see!

Whatever part you need, Im sure I have it, I have a few parts spots.

[Bad Bob]

Originally Posted by showrod

why not do a Hirohata style handle? I've also noticed the less attractive apleton & Lorraine , spots sell for way less and the handles and ends look the same I assume they interchange, but I have never done it myself.

Appletons have a handle and a thumb switch. Mine have a handle and a round switch on the end that match the handles. So I would need two handles and two matching switch knobs. They are a brick color. Sure I could put some resin knobs on,but would have to make some matching resin,switch knobs. I've been trying to find some replacement knobs,but am having trouble locating them.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by Bad Bob

Appletons have a handle and a thumb switch. Mine have a handle and a round switch on the end that match the handles. So I would need two handles and two matching switch knobs. They are a brick color. Sure I could put some resin knobs on,but would have to make some matching resin,switch knobs. I've been trying to find some replacement knobs,but am having trouble locating them.

the pre war Appletons (112's) have the handle and the thumb switch.

The post-way appletons (552's) have a rotary switch at the end of the metal handle.

Both these styles show up on the other appleton models from different years.

The Lorraine switch and handle styles evolved along side of the appleton ones, and were the same for any given year.

[kkoacolonel]

Guys,you gotta admit it.There is only one type of spotlight to put on a sled

[Chad s]

I just took this pic to demonstrate the above descriptions:

[kkoacolonel]

I had the Kustom Kraft repo's on mine for a few years.But gotta have the right ones

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by kkoacolonel

Guys,you gotta admit it.There is only one type of spotlight to put on a sled

The guys that done understand the difference between an appleton 112/552 and a Unity or other spot,most likely havnt had one in their hands. There is something magical about them!

[kkoacolonel]

Chad,you are 100% right.They are like the Holy Grail of sledsville.When Bill Layman repo'd the Kustom Krafts,you remember he came out with the dummies and with the handles.Well back then the ones with the handles were like $450.00.I was 18 when I did my 51,couldn't afford that back then.I settled for the $55.00 Cal Customs.But vowed to myself,someday I will have the real deal

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by kkoacolonel

Chad,.....you remember he came out with the dummies and with the handles.....

Haha, I dont think I was around, I was born in 1984!

[Zephyr3789]

Originally Posted by Chad s

Do you need just the plastic part, or the whole handle assembly?

Ive been working on re-casting the plastic handles for a while. They are often cracked and/or warped, and I have a mold of a perfect one being made.

Chad,

I would love to have a few of those plastic handles for the 112's. Would it be possible to buy a few from you when they are finished?

[SlowandLow63]

Originally Posted by Chad s

Whatever part you need, Im sure I have it, I have a few parts spots.

I have no idea what that pic is that you posted. Didn't see them on the spot at all. The handles were pretty much together when I put them on the spots. I put the driver side on, adjusted it so it was pretty and tightened the locknut towards the base. It snugged the light up so it would move by hand, but not flop around. Sweet. Same thing for the other side and no dice. I took it apart to see if I was missing something and to no avail. I had the base, and a snap ring holding the lock nut on, and that was it. With the parts there, I saw no way it could possibly get locked down. Honestly if you had a spare handle, that would cure the ails in one shot.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by SlowandLow63

I have no idea what that pic is that you posted. Didn't see them on the spot at all. The handles were pretty much together when I put them on the spots. I put the driver side on, adjusted it so it was pretty and tightened the locknut towards the base. It snugged the light up so it would move by hand, but not flop around. Sweet. Same thing for the other side and no dice. I took it apart to see if I was missing something and to no avail. I had the base, and a snap ring holding the lock nut on, and that was it. With the parts there, I saw no way it could possibly get locked down. Honestly if you had a spare handle, that would cure the ails in one shot.

Ok,
You have one spot with a very tight pin on the lock nut (outside the car), and one thats standard. This is not the area that puts tension on the spot. let me take a picture of a spot with the tensioning part installed so you see where it goes.

These are Appletons right? I have never seen an appleton with a lock ring. Appletons use a pin to retain attach the hex/threaded part to the outer post that the bucket mounts on.

[Chad s]

The blue arrow is the part that puts the tension on the spotight from the whole out side post turning. This part goes inside the car, and one or 2 of the little posts with holes at the end screws to the garnish molding, and then you tighten the nut on the tensioner to provide tension.

[SlowandLow63]

Originally Posted by Chad s

Ok,
You have one spot with a very tight pin on the lock nut (outside the car), and one thats standard. This is not the area that puts tension on the spot. let me take a picture of a spot with the tensioning part installed so you see where it goes.

These are Appletons right? I have never seen an appleton with a lock ring. Appletons use a pin to retain attach the hex/threaded part to the outer post that the bucket mounts on.

Definite Appleton, definite snap ring. I know Vic mentioned they were brand new, maybe a new addition to a repop? Not sure. Awaiting pic.

[SlowandLow63]

Originally Posted by Chad s

The blue arrow is the part that puts the tension on the spotight from the whole out side post turning. This part goes inside the car, and one or 2 of the little posts with holes at the end screws to the garnish molding, and then you tighten the nut on the tensioner to provide tension.

Neither of them had that. And frankly I don't think it would work on the kart because the rod goes throgh the dash. So basically that lock nut does nothing but sit there and look pretty. And you don't think were missing anything internally?

[kustomclassics]

Hey Chad who do you trust to chrome plate your appletons without grinding away the appleton stamp ?

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by kustomclassics

Hey Chad who do you trust to chrome plate your appletons without grinding away the appleton stamp ?

Havnt gone there yet! I'm sending a pair of 552's to advanced, after they are metal finished, so advanced only needs one light pass of copper.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by SlowandLow63

Definite Appleton, definite snap ring. I know Vic mentioned they were brand new, maybe a new addition to a repop? Not sure. Awaiting pic.

Are they stamped appleton 112 or 552 on the bucket? Could they be the above mentioned kustom kraft ones from the 80's?

See, these spots never worked well with a truck as late as the kart. If you look at a Unity brand outer bracket for that truck (appleton never made one for that truck) , you would find its much different than the one you have on your appletons.

The tensioner bracket absolutely did nothing but provide tension. The one I posted a pic of (apposed to the collet style) also can work in conjunction with a little ring that creates a stop point for the spot, so it can never be tilted too far and hut the paint on the cowl.

Perhaps since the handles come through the dash, you could mount the tensioners inside the dash, on the other side where the handle passes through?

There is nothing internal that stops the outer post from spinning on the bottom hex/thread part. Its only held on there by a lin (or in yout case, a snap ring, which allows it to freely spin. All of mine are like this.

[Chad s]

Here is a breakdown of all of the parts you should have.

[SlowandLow63]

Originally Posted by Chad s

Are they stamped appleton 112 or 552 on the bucket? Could they be the above mentioned kustom kraft ones from the 80's?

See, these spots never worked well with a truck as late as the kart. If you look at a Unity brand outer bracket for that truck (appleton never made one for that truck) , you would find its much different than the one you have on your appletons.

The tensioner bracket absolutely did nothing but provide tension. The one I posted a pic of (apposed to the collet style) also can work in conjunction with a little ring that creates a stop point for the spot, so it can never be tilted too far and hut the paint on the cowl.

Perhaps since the handles come through the dash, you could mount the tensioners inside the dash, on the other side where the handle passes through?

There is nothing internal that stops the outer post from spinning on the bottom hex/thread part. Its only held on there by a lin (or in yout case, a snap ring, which allows it to freely spin. All of mine are like this.

I personally am not sure. There wasn't any stamping on the bucket, but they were sent out for copper plating and the plater ground away the tabs on the ring to cinch them together so I don't doubt he may have ground the stamp away as well. I'm sure well figure something out to keep it in place. Thanks for your help though Chad. I just wasn;t sure if I lost pieces or was just plain retarded.

Probably both!

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by SlowandLow63

I personally am not sure. There wasn't any stamping on the bucket, but they were sent out for copper plating and the plater ground away the tabs on the ring to cinch them together so I don't doubt he may have ground the stamp away as well. I'm sure well figure something out to keep it in place. Thanks for your help though Chad. I just wasn;t sure if I lost pieces or was just plain retarded.

Probably both!

Just because there is on stamp on the bucket doesnt mean its not an Appleton, they made unmarked ones as well, which come up fairly often. But I figured if it was stamped, with a model number, we'd be 100% sure of what we had here.

Ok, well, just so we can see if were on the same page, here is one more pic. Is the blue arrow pointing to where the spot is swiveling around and not stayng in position?

The red arrow points to the partially hammered out pin that locks the hext part to the post part on every appleton I have seen.

[53chevy]

Again, I take crappy photos. This may help or confuse (Hahaha!)

Ken

[barry mazza]

Had a bunch of Appeltons over the yrs, the thing about the spots on the Aztec , they were the ones that Barris sold for 19 bucks or so in the small mags. I could never find even one with the small dummy sized shell. Then I had the luck to see a Merc with a set on them. He let me look inside and what do you think. They were dummy steel shells on the small Appelton shell stands. The little spots that no one wanted but had nice handles on them. It was just a matter of making the big hole larger and using long screws to hold the spots shells on the stands. They used a bulb from a motorcycle. I don't know who made these up for Barris but, I have only seen one other set on a car, Ray Soffs 50 Ford , the "CONN YANKEE" has them on it and Ron Francos old 50 Merc convert from Conn as well. I'am sure these were used on the KOPPER KART as well.
BARRESSE'

[bolsa boy]

I'd like to use some on my 36 Roadster put can't mount them on the windshield post. Can they be mounted through the cowl or the doors and still look right?

[SlowandLow63]

Originally Posted by Chad s

Just because there is on stamp on the bucket doesnt mean its not an Appleton, they made unmarked ones as well, which come up fairly often. But I figured if it was stamped, with a model number, we'd be 100% sure of what we had here.

Ok, well, just so we can see if were on the same page, here is one more pic. Is the blue arrow pointing to where the spot is swiveling around and not stayng in position?

The red arrow points to the partially hammered out pin that locks the hext part to the post part on every appleton I have seen.

Yes, the hex nut and the base that mounts to the cowl stay put and the spot droops all over the place. The only difference I can see is that the hex nut is retained onto the spot shaft (to the left of your blue arrow) with the snap ring. It looks like in your pic the hex nut is retained to the base. And no, there were no such pins running through the hex nut.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by SlowandLow63

Yes, the hex nut and the base that mounts to the cowl stay put and the spot droops all over the place. The only difference I can see is that the hex nut is retained onto the spot shaft (to the left of your blue arrow) with the snap ring. It looks like in your pic the hex nut is retained to the base. And no, there were no such pins running through the hex nut.

Thats interesting.

Regardless, you'll have to find some way to provide tension, if you can make the original appleton tensioners I posted a pic of work, just say the word and I'll send them over.

[SlowandLow63]

Originally Posted by Chad s

Thats interesting.

Regardless, you'll have to find some way to provide tension, if you can make the original appleton tensioners I posted a pic of work, just say the word and I'll send them over.

I'll let Mark or Vic make that call, I'm merely a pawn in this battle. But I thank you for your help. We'll figure something out, I'm heading down thursday to bring down some little odds and ends from the platers if Vic can't make it and I'll mess with em then. Or Mark has already fixed them and were wasting our time, haha.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by SlowandLow63

I'll let Mark or Vic make that call, I'm merely a pawn in this battle. But I thank you for your help. We'll figure something out, I'm heading down thursday to bring down some little odds and ends from the platers if Vic can't make it and I'll mess with em then. Or Mark has already fixed them and were wasting our time, haha.

Cool,
Still working on getting all the ford chop pics together, I'll have it done soon!

[lurker mick]

Originally Posted by barry mazza

Had a bunch of Appeltons over the yrs, the thing about the spots on the Aztec , they were the ones that Barris sold for 19 bucks or so in the small mags. I could never find even one with the small dummy sized shell. Then I had the luck to see a Merc with a set on them. He let me look inside and what do you think. They were dummy steel shells on the small Appelton shell stands. The little spots that no one wanted but had nice handles on them. It was just a matter of making the big hole larger and using long screws to hold the spots shells on the stands. They used a bulb from a motorcycle. I don't know who made these up for Barris but, I have only seen one other set on a car, Ray Soffs 50 Ford , the "CONN YANKEE" has them on it and Ron Francos old 50 Merc convert from Conn as well. I'am sure these were used on the KOPPER KART as well.
BARRESSE'

I agree with Barry, I don't believe the Kopper Kart, Aztec, El Capitola and many of Barris' later built cars used either Appleton 112's nor 552's. These were getting hard to find by the late 50's early 60's

In around 1958 there were smaller (5 inch) spotlights being made that looked very similar to the Cal Custom dummy spots but had Appleton handles and were a working spotlight.
I had a set on a '56 Merc I built in '59 when I was a kid.

If you look close at the copper plated spotlights on the Kopper Kart in the attached picture taken from Andy Southard's book, they look like the smaller spotlights that both Barris and Eastern auto sold, not the larger 112's or 552's.

Does anyone have an example of these later "Appletons"?

Mick

[fat141]

Any one out there got a picture of a spotlight mounted through the windscreen post on a 49-52 Chevie sedan.I am having a long term discussion with a diehard custom guy about this. I dont reckon that there is enough room between the windshield surround an the rain gutter.I mounted mine on the door just above the beltline trim. Any help out there please
Rod

[Bad Bob]

Originally Posted by Chad s

Do you need just the plastic part, or the whole handle assembly?

Ive been working on re-casting the plastic handles for a while. They are often cracked and/or warped, and I have a mold of a perfect one being made.

One of my handles got chewed up by a dog. I need a handle and the knob that's on the back,above the handle. If you can make new ones,i'll send you my good ones and you can make me the set. What do you think?

[Bad Bob]

Originally Posted by Chad s

I just took this pic to demonstrate the above descriptions:

Give me a minute,i'll find the pic.

[Bad Bob]

Here's what it looks like. The plastic handle and the knob on the back is what I need to replace.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by Bad Bob

Here's what it looks like. The plastic handle and the knob on the back is what I need to replace.

That is another variation of the appleton/lorraine handle from the later 40's (Appleton 552 era). The easiest to find are the 112 era handles, but these later ones do come up. Finding them in maroon will be very hard!

The switch knob is a bit different than the one in the 552 handle I posted in the pic, but it should be interchangeable. The handle definately is the same. If you found a pair of appleton 451's, you could rape the parts and have the right plastic, but in a cream color.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by lurker mick

I agree with Barry, I don't believe the Kopper Kart, Aztec, El Capitola and many of Barris' later built cars used either Appleton 112's nor 552's. These were getting hard to find by the late 50's early 60's

In around 1958 there were smaller (5 inch) spotlights being made that looked very similar to the Cal Custom dummy spots but had Appleton handles and were a working spotlight.
I had a set on a '56 Merc I built in '59 when I was a kid.

If you look close at the copper plated spotlights on the Kopper Kart in the attached picture taken from Andy Southard's book, they look like the smaller spotlights that both Barris and Eastern auto sold, not the larger 112's or 552's.

Does anyone have an example of these later "Appletons"?

Mick

A pair of these turned on up ebay last year. The guy claims to have ordered them from one of the Barris adds in the mid 50's. They were not marked "Appleton" anywhere on them, in fact there were no makers markings to be found anywhere on them, but they matched the profile of the ones in the adds from the little books perfectly. He had the bid starting at $600, and I think there was a reserve. They didnt sell that time, but I think they were re-listed later, but may have not sold then either.

I would have liked to have them, but I wasnt willing to pay that for them.

[Bad Bob]

The color in the pic isn't really what they look like. They are more like a chocolate color. I wouldn't care if they were white or black. Chocolate doesn't go with my interior.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by Bad Bob

The color in the pic isn't really what they look like. They are more like a chocolate color. I wouldn't care if they were white or black. Chocolate doesn't go with my interior.

I would just find a pair of appleton handles you can use. The dark reddish brown color your describing was a Lorraine thing. Generally, if an Appleton handle was any color other than cream, it was for a specific car (i.e early 40's cadillac was white plastic on an appleton, strudebaker was dark brown).

I can PM you with the number of a guy who can sell you just the handles, all he deals in is spotlights, and has any part you could ask for (though dont count on a passenger side 49-51 merc bracket, that will be a challange, best off shaping one to fit) when I get home.

[Bad Bob]

Thanks. I'll call him and see what he knows.

[Rikster]

Very intersting post.

I have been collecting photos of Appleton Spots for some time and tried to sort them best I could. There is still so much "mistery" about the spotlights.

I have a special section for them on my site. Some folders contain more info on how to mount them, others just show the spots as I found the photos on the internet (mostly on ebay etc) sorted by brand and #.

Appleton/Lorainne Spotlight section

[Beecher]

not on my 40 coupe yet, i need a handfull of parts (like lenses, some plastic, and some hard bits). But heres a pic to make you drool. They are stamped Feb 14 1940 in green ink on the back of the reflectors. They need some ding removal, and some chrome. But i can hardly wait.

I guess technically these are Lorraines, but it says "An Appleton Electric Company" on the badge. I was going to remove the badge when i restore them, but someone warned me against it due to loosing their value. Havnt decided a plan of action yet. but i do love these things.

[Beecher]

oh, and yeah, i have a matched pair!!!

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by Beecher

not on my 40 coupe yet, i need a handfull of parts (like lenses, some plastic, and some hard bits). But heres a pic to make you drool. They are stamped Feb 14 1940 in green ink on the back of the reflectors. They need some ding removal, and some chrome. But i can hardly wait.

I guess technically these are Lorraines, but it says "An Appleton Electric Company" on the badge. I was going to remove the badge when i restore them, but someone warned me against it due to loosing their value. Havnt decided a plan of action yet. but i do love these things.

Drool? That would look good on a cop car! Sorry, had to say it!

[Theo Douglas]

This is an amazing post.
I'm piecing together a set of 112s, and it's posts like this which really keep me going.
Thanks to Chad S. and to everyone else as well.
You guys are a font of information.

[kustomclassics]

Originally Posted by Theo Douglas

This is an amazing post.
I'm piecing together a set of 112s, and it's posts like this which really keep me going.
Thanks to Chad S. and to everyone else as well.
You guys are a font of information.

Make sure you have 112's with the same shape there's two styles one has a taller/sharper peak and the other has a blunter peak like the 552's. I'm still looking for a 112 with a sharper peak been buying Appletons on ebay to make a pair, I also just realized I've collected over 10+ sets/pairs and some singles and still have not found the one I need.

[oldtimerodder72]

I am looking for a set of teardrop Appletons. I believe they might be 112 series? I am looking to put a set on my 51 Mercury. Can anyone help me out? Looking for either the complete, useable spotlights or true Appleton dummies. I have a few Mercs I am going to need them for. Please let me know. Thanks, Jason.

[appleton guy]

I have one Appleton 112 series spotlight that is in mint/near mint condition. No pitting that I can see and no dings. Is there anybody who could offer some advice as to their worth. I intend to sell the spotlight.

Please email me
-Mike
larosa.mi@gmail.com

[gpbrianbaja]

Currently I am in Iraq and I will be returning home in December. I am looking for a good set of Appleton spotlights to put on my 51 merc. Does anyone know where I can get a set?
Thank you

[jay]

I was helping my friend clean his garage and came across a dust covered box...Curiosity got the best of me and i opened the box to find a pair of appeltons staring back at me...after calming down i asked him about them and he told me he had run them on a dodge he had back in the 50's...he had forgotten all about them...told me he also had a ding dong bell hooked to the door so it chimed when you opened the door....he gave me the spotlights to put on my 38....i cant wait to get them on

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by jay

I was helping my friend clean his garage and came across a dust covered box...Curiosity got the best of me and i opened the box to find a pair of appeltons staring back at me...after calming down i asked him about them and he told me he had run them on a dodge he had back in the 50's...he had forgotten all about them...told me he also had a ding dong bell hooked to the door so it chimed when you opened the door....he gave me the spotlights to put on my 38....i cant wait to get them on

Nice, what model number are they?

[FASI]

This is one of the pair on my Chevy. These are Appleton S-552 and were the original spots installed by Barris when they built the original Larry Ernst Chev. I bought these from the current owner/restorer of Rev. Ernst's car and had them restored and put them on the 2nd iteration of the Ernst car. This has been an interesting post by adding new to me info on the Appletons.

[Hot Rods Ta Hell]

I love the look of teardrop spotlights on Customs.

Anyone know how/when the fad of placing them on customs started? Who got the ball rolling?

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by FASI

This is one of the pair on my Chevy. These are Appleton S-552 and were the original spots installed by Barris when they built the original Larry Ernst Chev. I bought these from the current owner/restorer of Rev. Ernst's car and had them restored and put them on the 2nd iteration of the Ernst car. This has been an interesting post by adding new to me info on the Appletons.

So they are the original pair off of the Ernst car? My pair of 552's also cam from the owner of a famous Barris car, and were purchased from Barris.

[westcoaster]

hey Bad Bob, could you make a mold from the good handle you have and cast a new one to match? just an idea. i'm sure you've already thought of that though.

[SlowandLow63]

Originally Posted by FASI

This is one of the pair on my Chevy. These are Appleton S-552 and were the original spots installed by Barris when they built the original Larry Ernst Chev. I bought these from the current owner/restorer of Rev. Ernst's car and had them restored and put them on the 2nd iteration of the Ernst car. This has been an interesting post by adding new to me info on the Appletons.

Thats cool, just a little trinket that no one else (excpet the entire interweb) knows about when they look at your car. Which is amazing by the way.

[jay]

Hey chad ... i think they are 112's they have a thumb switch on them but i am new to the spotlight game...the handle looks kinda like a ivory color....but it could have been white at one time...they have a few dings....but they will clean up nicely...i cant wait to put them on the 38

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by jay

Hey chad ... i think they are 112's they have a thumb switch on them but i am new to the spotlight game...the handle looks kinda like a ivory color....but it could have been white at one time...they have a few dings....but they will clean up nicely...i cant wait to put them on the 38

Is there a "series" number stamped on the chrome spotlight bucket itself? It would says "Series 112" under the APPLETON stamp, if they are 112's.

[jay]

Hey chad.. you got my curiosity up so i went and got them out of their storage spot to see what they are...there is no appleton markings on them at all...so i may have a generic brand...they are still tear dropped so that is cool...the model number is a s35...they have about 2 inches of cloth wiring left on them so i am guessing that it will have to be changed out when i get ready to run them.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by jay

Hey chad.. you got my curiosity up so i went and got them out of their storage spot to see what they are...there is no appleton markings on them at all...so i may have a generic brand...they are still tear dropped so that is cool...the model number is a s35...they have about 2 inches of cloth wiring left on them so i am guessing that it will have to be changed out when i get ready to run them.

S35 is not an appleton number, maybe its a lorraine number? I have never seen an unmarked lorraine before. Is there any name on the handles?

[alchemy]

I've had a ton of Appleton 112's over the years, but got something different over the weekend. Found a nice one chrome shaped exactly like a 112, but no stamped name and number. Wonder why? Has a switch and handle just like the rest of the 112s I've had.

Also got a NOS (with the install kit and part of the box) 112, but it is the painted war model. Some guys say chromers prefer to work with virgin parts though.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by alchemy

I've had a ton of Appleton 112's over the years, but got something different over the weekend. Found a nice one chrome shaped exactly like a 112, but no stamped name and number. Wonder why? Has a switch and handle just like the rest of the 112s I've had.

Also got a NOS (with the install kit and part of the box) 112, but it is the painted war model. Some guys say chromers prefer to work with virgin parts though.

I have an unmarked one as well, they were made around the same time, its not a mistake or anything, just another varient. I actually am looking for a second one to complete a pair if you want to sell it.

[GoManGo1951]

I have an Appelton s-450. Its in very good shape chrome is in great shape. This thing worth anything? Not sure I wanna use it and may dump it.

[Chad s]

Originally Posted by GoManGo1951

I have an Appelton s-450. Its in very good shape chrome is in great shape. This thing worth anything? Not sure I wanna use it and may dump it.

This is a very common spot, and is the style that was sold as an accessory at the dealer, or used on a cop car. It is not the style that was popular for a custom car in the early 50's. Its worth $30-80 depending on who wants it, and the condition of the chrome. Any dings or dents will severely lower the value, as these arnt desirable enough to send to a plater, when NOS ones can be had for $100-150.

[GoManGo1951]

Originally Posted by Chad s

This is a very common spot, and is the style that was sold as an accessory at the dealer, or used on a cop car. It is not the style that was popular for a custom car in the early 50's. Its worth $30-80 depending on who wants it, and the condition of the chrome. Any dings or dents will severely lower the value, as these arnt desirable enough to send to a plater, when NOS ones can be had for $100-150.

Thanks. I will just toss it on the shelf if not used.

[jay]

hey chad there are no markings on these things...when i get a chance i will have my friend take a picture of them and post it here so we can find out what they are.

[TinWolf]

Originally Posted by Bad Bob

Appletons have a handle and a thumb switch. Mine have a handle and a round switch on the end that match the handles. So I would need two handles and two matching switch knobs. They are a brick color. Sure I could put some resin knobs on,but would have to make some matching resin,switch knobs. I've been trying to find some replacement knobs,but am having trouble locating them.

Hi Bad Bob !
I dont know about Lorraines but I had a friend make a series of handles for my 112:s and the cover for the flip switch !We used my perfect 1941 NOS 112 to take the mold off and there is some cleaning up to do and file the square hole that is made with a undersize . I need to get some pictures for them since they came out quite good ! Some Lorraines used same style handles as the 112:s and some had 552 looking once . He can make them in any color but mine are the light tan looking original 112 color . Lorraine usually made handles in ivory or black ?!
Now when I think about it I know what your talking about , I had a set of Lorraines that I sold to a -40 Merc buddy and those were black with a turn knob in the end and it had two small wings to help the turngrip . Thats the only set Ive seen of that style ever but they were pretty cool looking .
Wolf

See pictures at:
http://public.fotki.com/TinWolf/fors...on-repo-handl/

[53chevy]

This is a Lorraine 37 series. 3x series spotlights are Lorraine's. There are subtle difference like the shape of housing (Point or Blunt, Thanks to Chad's info), handles and shape of the housing between the housing (light) and arm, some have a triangle shape bracket and some don't. And of course some of the housing had no marking and other marking would be a name plate by the On/Off switch.

[mike l.]

chad, do you got any more of those spots for sale? lemme know, i could use a set....
mike l.

[Bob K]

I've got a set of 112's that I was going to use on my convert but changed my mind.

I want to put them on my 47 chebby chopped 2dr sedan.
Is there a template that is specific to this car to show where to drill through the A pillar?

BB

[psyco50]

I picked up some baby Appletons 450 series over the weekend, I’m gonna install them on my Shoebox.fficeffice" />>>

[scully_100]

Excellent thread !
There is a whole world in this discussion, what looks best, what is period correct etc.

I too am hanging out till one day a nice matching set of 552's or 112's come along.
certainly not going to find a set downunder. so i gots to be one of these jerks pushing prices sky high.
they just look too good, and i was never one for fake anything.
patience is a virtue..
but i am running low on virtue.

[51 mercules]

I have Appleton 552's on my Merc.They need to be restored though.

[MIGHTY]

I would like to.

[LeadSledMerc]

Originally Posted by MIGHTY

I would like to.

Same here once I find a decent set....but for now I'll have to run dummys.

[otas]

Killer collection of spot lights. I have a nice nice set of 112's set back for future kustom.

[Dar73]

Here is our trio of 552's. I think appletons always look great!

[Rikster]

Originally Posted by Dar73

Here is our trio of 552's. I think appletons always look great!

Dar73.... That is one GREAT collection of cars....
The 46-48 Ford convertible is PERFECT. Would you mind sharing some more photos of that one.

[Dar73]

Thanks Rik. Here are some.

[kkoacolonel]

Dar,absolut time piece.Circa 1951.

[LeadSledMerc]

Gorgeous, Dar...absolutely gorgeous!
Thanks for sharing the pics.

[thunderroad]

Scored...Best $50 I ever spent....

[thunderroad]

Has the markings L975 in mount anyone know wtf it means?

[1SICK37]

Thats a nice Lorraine model 37 spotlight.

[myke]

Originally Posted by thunderroad

Has the markings L975 in mount anyone know wtf it means?

Yea that's the bracket model. It fits my car 1947 Cadillac.

I could use that bracket if you want to trade me for a nice one (different part number) that I have.

[Diggerdave]

i have mint pair of 112S on my 48

[myke]

Nice!


Still looking for a L975 mounting bezel if anyone has one. I have a real nice different part number to trade or just buy outright. Thanks!

[secnwind]

I have a nice set of 112s that I would like to put on my 40 Lasalle convert.. not sure what brackets I need.. (should be the same as 41 Roadmaster, Caddy etc.) will the brackets used on the cheapie repros work for a set to grind and fit?

[resto-rodder]

A few years ago I picked up a painted Appleton 112. It has never been chromed, so I believe it may have been made during the war? Any information on this type of 112?

[ronjean]

I know it has been awhile sense you posted the 1951 merc spots that you had for sale. Do you still have them? If not do you have an appleton s_450 ?
Thanks Ron

[DKroadsters]

Does anyone have old sales brochures or pictures of partslists to put up here
Could be great to a see a list, off all the mounting bracket numbers
Is there someone that reproduce spareparts for 112/552
Looking to buy a set of NOS or close 112, maybe restored nice ones would be great

[shoebox1950]

That would neat to see...some Appleton sales brochures if they existed. I've never seen one...

[52plybizcoupe]

my dad has a couple apple tons for sale i should show him this page

[K13]

Originally Posted by DKroadsters

Does anyone have old sales brochures or pictures of partslists to put up here
Could be great to a list, off all the mounting bracket numbers
Is there someone that reproduce spareparts for 112/552
Looking for a set of NOS or close, maybe restored nice ones would be great

Don't know about nos or restored ones but I do know that the mounting brackets for the cheap dumby ones work.



Posted from the TJJ App for iPhone & iPad

[williebill]

When I see the non 112 or 552 Appletons for sale cheap,I've wondered what would interchange from them ( 550,451,etc,etc ) with the more desirable 552. If I found shitty 552s missing pieces,will any other series pieces work,and be correct?
Tried to PM Chad S,but his inbox is full

[kustomclassics]

The bakelite/plastic handles will interchange as will the actual arms if there the same length , I also think the lenses will interchange as well.

[evojoe67]

I'm glad this thread came back to the top.

I just bought a set of Appleton S-451's that i'm not sure are working or not, but are in really good shape.
I've got 2 questions;
1- is there a certain model that is more desirable, and what's the difference between them(2 questions in one, i know)

I've seen a lot that are non fuctional, and just for show, but i'm not sure how i feel about putting something on my car that has a function but is not set up to perform that function, therefore i'd like to know ;

2- how do you guys feel about just installing them for show?

[K13]

Originally Posted by evojoe67

I'm glad this thread came back to the top.

I just bought a set of Appleton S-451's that i'm not sure are working or not, but are in really good shape.
I've got 2 questions;
1- is there a certain model that is more desirable, and what's the difference between them(2 questions in one, i know)

I've seen a lot that are non fuctional, and just for show, but i'm not sure how i feel about putting something on my car that has a function but is not set up to perform that function, therefore i'd like to know ;

2- how do you guys feel about just installing them for show?

Question one is yes there are models that are more desirable the 112's and 552's. These were the two models that were most often used on customs back in the day. I am sure others were used and it may have even varied by location in the country but if you look at pictures of cars that came out of any of the well known customs shops of the time they were almost exclusively out fittted with those two models. They are more of a deep teardrop shape than other models. The 112's were used earlier on and the 552's took over and seemed to become THE spotlight to use.

As for question number two. It may be more a matter of whether they are legal to have operational where you live than a personal like or dislike thing.

[Squablow]

112 and 552 are the desirable ones, because of the shape of the bucket. They were the ones popular on custom cars in the early days, and the other styles really don't look the same when installed.

They have a pointy, conical, somewhat teardrop shape. A 112 is an earlier model and has a small bulb with a lens and reflector, and the retaining ring is thin. I believe a 552 has the same bucket, but has a sealed beam style bulb and a wider retaining ring.

Pretty sure as far as parts interchangeability goes, the whole arm assembly, handle, brackets, and all that stuff from a non 112/552 can be used on a 112/552 if need be. And I would think the bulb and retainer from a 551 would fit a 552 as well but I have never tried.

As for mounting them without hooking them up, who's gonna know? They're really there for style points over functionality anyway.

[MistGreen50]

[JeffSled]

Wow ^^^ That is a great sight .

[K13]

Man I wish I could find some mounting patterns for my truck so I could mount mine. I am getting tired of drilling holes and welding them back up.

[JeffSled]

^ I had my spots for years before we finally put em on.I didn't have any help at the time or didn't even have an email or ever even use a computer to try and find stuff.I it sounds like im talking about decades ago but this was only in 2008. I still never found real patterns.

[K13]

My problem is I don't even have a picture to go by to get a rough idea where they might go. I made a jig to figure out roughly where they look good on the outside but I never seem to be able to get a place where once I drill the holes the handles come through in a good place inside.

[JeffSled]

Originally Posted by K13

My problem is I don't even have a picture to go by to get a rough idea where they might go. I made a jig to figure out roughly where they look good on the outside but I never seem to be able to get a place where once I drill the holes the handles come through in a good place inside.

Are you starting off with a real small bit ? Im sure you are.

[K13]

Originally Posted by JeffSled

Are you starting off with a real small bit ? Im sure you are.

LOL I have tried everything. I just can't quite get the right angle to get the handle through and have the spot in a good position on the outside. I may just have to try it again.

[JeffSled]

We started out with a long skinny aircraft style bit thru the guide that threads to the mounting bracket.The thing is....the guide is only made for the big bit not a smaller pilot bit.It was scary because car was already painted outside and inside.I used a template that Jim Mcneil made for me.It ended up being a little low on my car.I had to file the mounting brackets where I wanted em.I was scared straight when we were drilling because I thought the guy who helped me was experienced with spot lights and it turns out it was his first set.We did have an oldtimer there though who was keeping his eye on us.

[K13]

I may have to get a longer bit and try and eyeball it a bit more. Can't decide if I want to just run one like the Calori Couple kind of keeping with the older build style or two. Once I get one to work I can make a template to do the second if I decide to run it.

[JeffSled]

Just try and eyeball it the best you can from the side.I know a mercury set up is different then your truck though.Maybe a dumb idea but what if you did a small bit from the inside going out ?? Not sure if it would work but maybe worth thinking about.

[K13]

Originally Posted by JeffSled

Just try and eyeball it the best you can from the side.I know a mercury set up is different then your truck though.Maybe a dumb idea but what if you did a small bit from the inside going out ?? Not sure if it would work but maybe worth thinking about.

Might be an idea. Thanks for the suggestions!

[MistGreen50]

Originally Posted by JeffSled

Wow ^^^ That is a great sight .

It is!A friend is the owner of this light,he bought it last year at the Long Beach swapmeet for $175.......

[El Gordo]

Originally Posted by K13

I may have to get a longer bit and try and eyeball it a bit more. Can't decide if I want to just run one like the Calori Couple kind of keeping with the older build style or two. Once I get one to work I can make a template to do the second if I decide to run it.

If you need a hand this weekend - just ask - I'm in the neighbourhood

[K13]

Originally Posted by El Gordo

If you need a hand this weekend - just ask - I'm in the neighbourhood

Thanks for the offer. Not sure when I will try tackling it again

[El Gordo]

Originally Posted by K13

Thanks for the offer. Not sure when I will try tackling it again

my garage is unheated and I can't work on mine at -20c
I stop into Lee's to get my Hotrod fix

[MistGreen50]

my friend Dan's 552 collection

[47Plym]

Good interesting thread......have learned a thing or two about Appletons.

Are there templates available for mounting Unity spots and would they work for an
Appleton?

Here's a quote from an article in Hot Rod Deluxe magazine in 2011 regarding a man who
seems to have some helpful info. Maybe everyone knows this already, but maybe
it could help...........quote.....While hunting for the real deal for our Suburban, we eventually found our way to Bob Birch at Accessoryland (563/556-5482). We only wish he'd been our first contact. We were stunned when he rattled off the part numbers of the brackets for our fairly obscure application right off the top of his head. If you're looking for Unity, Appleton, or other brands of accessory lights, save yourself some trouble and start with Bob. The rest is relatively easy, as illustrated here.

Read more: http://www.hotrod.com/hotroddeluxe/h...#ixzz2I25ETKAs

And, a link to Rik Hoving's article on spotlights..............
http://public.fotki.com/Rikster/11_c...on_-_lorainne/