[FC] Tail lights

[Chris & Bill Strickland]

oem FC taillight bulbs were #1034 -- 1034 were generally replaced by 
1157, both in the field and and the marketplace -- I would be highly 
surprised to find an operable FC with 1034's -- the stops just weren't 
bright enough, even back when FCC's were new.

My 356 also has similar issues, but there I have the disadvantage of not 
wanting to update the oem 6 volt electrics, and yes, there are LED 
options available and being explored.

I did find that a good cleaning of the reflector and some "chrome" spray 
paint greatly improved the situation -- at least you can tell when they 
are on.

My previous FC was a van, and the sheer bulk and a chrome bumper helped 
rear visibility, but not like decent rear lights.

Those old red lenses do seem much more opaque than what's on modern cars 
(and I'm not sure that some of that isn't due to aging factors), but in 
1961, average hiway speeds weren't 85 mph, either.  I know most of the 
issues with the oem tail gate reflectors and lack of their availability, 
but it wouldn't seem to far fetched to make a latex mold of the tail 
light lens and cast up some new lenses in a more modern material.  
Combined with some shinied up reflectors (note: they are called 
"reflectors" for a reason) should provide improved tail light function, 
even if the oem design isn't large enough.

Seems like I've seen a ricer website with info for casting your own 
clear lenses so folks so inclined could have the "look".  Google could 
be your friend here.

Relays, like you would do for full voltage to the  headlights, would 
help reduce the voltage drop you get in going to the front of the van to 
the switch and then back to the rear.

Bill Strickland