Elans with perspex covered fixed headlights?

[Crusty]

What is the history about perspex covered fixed head lights?
http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C132624/
The above being in USA prob does not need to meet headlight height regulations.
Was this standard on fedral cars or an option either way..
I ve only seen fixed head lights on 26r

[msd1107]

The US has headlight height requirements. Many countries probably do.

The mechanism on the Elan was probably designed to at least pass the US requirements.

Shortly after getting my Elan, I was pulled over and they (I don't remember if it was the city police, the CHP, or the Sheriff) spent the better part of an hour going over the car with a fine tooth comb. They measured the headlight height and attempted to measure the aiming. But at idle, the headlights vibrate too much to get an accurate idea of their aim. Eventually, they gave up. What a waste of time on both sides!

Incidentally, the only cars pulled over were sports cars and hot rods. No obviously mechanical wrecks of American sedans.

David
1968 36/7988

[Crusty]

The US has headlight height requirements. Many countries probably do.

The mechanism on the Elan was probably designed to at least pass the US requirements.

Shortly after getting my Elan, I was pulled over and they (I don't remember if it was the city police, the CHP, or the Sheriff) spent the better part of an hour going over the car with a fine tooth comb. They measured the headlight height and attempted to measure the aiming. But at idle, the headlights vibrate too much to get an accurate idea of their aim. Eventually, they gave up. What a waste of time on both sides!

Incidentally, the only cars pulled over were sports cars and hot rods. No obviously mechanical wrecks of American sedans.

David
1968 36/7988

David check out the fixed lights in the link Ive seen this a few times and wondered if it was ever a standard detail

[msd1107]

Crusty,

I have seen this before. Lots of people like the conversion. Some other experts will have to weigh in on whether the conversion could be requested on or apperared on other than the 26r.

Many Elan owners with low profile tires or lowered suspension will not pass the height limitation. I have made the tongue in cheek comment that if you are cited, drive over to DMV, crank up your adjustable height suspension, pass the inspection, then lower the car back down and go live your life. Most people are within 1/2-1" of the requirement.

David