Oh, yes my friends, I am so unoriginal that I decided to revamp this juicy topic one more time.
So, I've been struggling with this decision for quite some time, vetting pros and cons of doing or not doing the modification to cover the headlights to my '67 Series 1 E type (AKA Series 1.25). Then last month I pulled the trigger. Called Chuck at Monocoque Metal Works, ordered the parts and a few more with Martin Robey and finally last week I started the work. It took me 4 full days of work to finish the left side of the car. The learning curve is not insignificant and there were a few moments of real panic as I was passing a few points of no return. However, this morning I looked at the car half-done and the direct comparison covered vs. uncovered was so overwhelmingly leaning on the former that I can now say for sure that I am very happy with the decision. The right hand side will be done soon and I bet it will be a smoother process as I have learned so much during step 1. I took a picture of it and wanted to share as I assume this is not a common view of an E Type and it may help others making their decision. Whichever that might be.

 

Good job, good photo, good post.
Thanks for sharing, Dan.
In my opinion there is no doubt that the covered headlights is a much better look, and looking at the 50/50 photo you posted really helps to confirm my feelings about it.
I am in the same predicament. My 67 OTS has the uncovered headlights, I am still early on in the decision making.
So, now that you have done one of the headlights, do you think that it is possible to go back easily? By easily I mean without have to do further alterations.
Thanks again for the post and a very cool photo.
Bill.

 

Dan, one more question. Can you post a photo with the headlights on? so we can see the difference it makes on the lights?
Thanks,
Bill.

 

Thanks Bill -- Based on my experience so far, the modification—although not impossible— is not easily reversible for two main reasons: 1) The original diaphragms got really beat up in the disassembly process. If I decided to reverse the work, I would have to buy new Series 1.5 ones. 2) Although the flanges that come with Chuck's kit can be installed simply using pop rivets in the original holes that kept in place the uncovered headlights sugar scoop, the large chrome piece that surrounds the covered lights needs new holes. Six per side, to be exact. The new holes are really close to the edge of the oval large headlight opening, but the original Series 1.5 chrome piece is so thin that it may not be sufficient to cover the holes, should one go back to the original design. The reason for my long pondered decision was exactly that, Bill. "What if one day I decided that ..." I spoke with E type collectors and experts for more knowledgeable then me and in the particular case of a late '67 model (the infamous 1.25) the only other detail that can give away "the truth" is the engine not painted in gold. Every other component is 100% of a Series 1. Apparently this makes it a far more acceptable modification with little or no repercussion on the car's value. Not sure if you follow auctions on Bring A Trailer, but a couple of months ago there was a fully restored 1967 OTS that sold for over $260K. I am 99% sure that the car originally had uncovered headlights. Clearly that did not had a negative effect on market value. When I decided to do the work I also decided to treat it as something that I will not undo, so I am good with my choice.
Today I could not resist and started the work on the right side, so unfortunately I cannot take a picture with both lights on for comparison, but I did take a photo with the new covered light on. In my opinion there is no significant difference in the strength of the beam. Said differently, it is just as weak as it was before! Hahahaha!

 

Hi Dan,
Thanks for the photo. Yes, I do follow the actions on BAT, I am addicted actually. And I agree, it seems that E-Types with the late 67 headlight conversion and the 5 speed gearbox are not looked upon negatively, and in fact are welcome modifications.
Since you brought up the issue of weak headlights, I have been thinking about installing LED headlights. I wonder how those would work with the covers on.
Anyway, the car looks much better with the covered headlights. I'm sure you will post a photo when it is all done.
Bill.

 

I will for sure. I am almost done with the other side.

As for the LED headlights, I believe that would work, literally plug & play. The only reason why I could not install them is because when my car was restored by the previous owner, they installed Wagner sealed headlamps. That is the type that doesn't allow to replace the bulb. If it fails, you need to replace the whole lamp. It seemed like an inconsiderate waste to throw away two perfectly good lights, so I decided to postpone it until one of them will break. At that point I'll likely do the upgrade.