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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - sealed beam light units - pilot window?

Showing my ignorance here, the price difference between a sealed beam with no pilot, and one with a pilot, is about £10. What is the difference between the two? I've just bought a replacement one from Moss and want to make sure they've not given me the wrong (cheaper) one.
Mothy

A sealed beam headlight with pilot is designed for cars that incorporate the sidelight. usually by a small bulb held behind the main unit, found on the rubber bumper cars where they dont have a separate sidelight unit. Halfords sell the sealed beam unit with and without pilot window for £6.99 made by Ring. If you have a separate sidelight you can still use a unit with a pilot as it makes no difference. In fact you can like many have 4 side lights by connecting up the pilot and the main sidelights. but seriously they are bog standard headlamp units as fitted to many UK cars and should never cost more than 8 quid
N Sayle

Moss currently charging £17 for no pilot - which I thought was very pricey. Is the pilot window just a clear circle of glass on the back of the sealed beam unit?
Mothy

Yes, it is simply a non coated circular section near the 3 connectors for the main light. Don't bother buying them from Moss, They are way too expensive. However, Halfords only have a stock level of one unit per branch. I ordered a four in advance and it only took a day for them to get them into stock. These fit Minis MGB's midgets and most other real cars that take a 7" round headlight. They show the item on the website and they really are only £6.99 each. Partco didn't have one when I asked them but their price was £5.49 plus vat. Moss charge the earth for so many items its untrue.
N Sayle

Wow, that sounds expensive!

Under the terms of the Distance Selling Regulations 2000, you can change your mind and send them back...assuming you bought them 'at a distance'?!
Dave O'Neill 2

One unit going back to Moss! As I suspected, I've been charged £17 full whack for a "non-pilot" unit, but given a standard pilot one that should have been £9. Will get a couple from Helfrauds instead ...
Mothy

No, bought in store Dave, BUT they gave the wrong item in a sealed up bag which I've only just unpacked, so will have to give a refund.
Mothy

Hi, I know this is an old thread but does any one know if Halfords still sell the sealed beam unit. I can't seam to find it on the website. I need one tomorrow. My MOT is on Tuesday first thing. Thanks
n Allen

They might have to order them in.

Do you not have a local motor factors?
Dave O'Neill 2

This thread was discussed between 17/04/2010 and 13/03/2011

MG Midget and Sprite Technical index

This thread is from the archive. The Live MG Midget and Sprite Technical BBS is active now.