Triumph Repair: spitfire headlights, phillips head screws, low beams

Question
Howard,

I have a 1971 spitfire who's headlights aren't working. Please explain the proper way to change the headlight bulbs. If that doesn't work, how should I proceed?

Answer
Hi Nathan,
If both head lights are out on both high and low beams it is unlikely a bulb problem. You should take a 12v test light and check for power on the wires (Blue w/white tracer and Blue w/red tracer wires) and then follow your wiring diagram to see where you lost the power if that is what is wrong.

If it is the bulbs (unlikely if all beams are out) there were only two methods used to hold the chrome rims on old British cars and one was a small screw in the bottom of the rim or they snapped on at the bottom and I think yours has a screw. After you remove the rim there is a second chrome rim holding the bulb in place with three small Phillips head screws on the edge tabs.

Howard