While working on my C3 Pro Street Corvette Convertible, I decided to try out the electric head light conversion kits since it’s newest engine would not make the vacuum needed to run the stock style head lights.
After I got the kit I purchased from eBay, I realized there were no instructions included. A Google search was full of useless 20 minute videos that take longer to watch than the actual installation takes. I decided to do a short blog on the install of an electric conversion kit to save others the frustration of finding simple instructions.
The install is very easy and straight forward if you’re comfortable working on C3 Corvettes.
Step 1: Take out the old vacuum system in it’s entirety, including the canisters, vacuum switches between the headlights, hoses, and so on.
Step 2: Cut this section out with a cut off wheel. (See picture below)
Step 3: Mount the new actuators, pin, and springs.
Step 4: Adjust the length of the actuator rod to the correct height to raise and lower the headlights the whole way. You might need to adjust the factory headlight stop to keep the headlights flush with the body when closed.
Step 5: Mount the relay out of the way and attach the ground to either the core support or the horn ground bolt.
Step 6: Hook the red wire to the alternator main wire.
Step 7: Run the blue wire into the car and attach it to the feed wire for the high/low beam switch. You’ll find it on the floor on 1976 and early, and on the column on 1977 and later Corvettes.
Step 8: Ensure everything works properly.