Series 2000 headlights

[EternalArianne]

Since my tractor was missing the lens that covers the headlights, and the OEM replacement assembly is $120, I figured I’d try to make my own!

The original doesn’t have the reflective chrome in the sockets but the new replacements do, so I was thinking some kind of reflective chrome paint in the sockets? And then get some flexible plastic sheeting and cut to make my own lens cover, then attach with either gorilla glue or tiny screws.

I was also thinking since I’m missing one fo the bulb holders, I would just wire up some plugs from a car wiring harness and use standard headlights? I mean they are 12V so they should work? Or I was thinking of straight wiring some LED lights in the sockets.

I’ll try to post my progress and pics along the way, but here’s the base assembly I’m working with…

[MSS7120]

Looks interesting. Please post your progress as my 2185 needs some new headlights.

[Ozcubowner]

It was only a silver/chrome reflective mylar foil used as a reflector , your local signage shop might have some in stock
Oz

[EternalArianne]

Ok so looking at the wiring diagram, it shows the harness is supposed to have actual plugs for the headlights (like a car) and the actual MTD/CC headlight bulbs look like regular car headlights. BUT, on mine they are totally different just blade plugs and you screw in bulbs.

So I guess there were variations at the factory for the same model? I guess my idea of rewiring it with car headlight plugs/bulbs wasn’t far off lol

[EternalArianne]

Progress update: trying to think of what is reflective that I have lying around, and it also heat resistant since this will be close to the engine. Aluminum Foil!

I just need to come up with a way to secure it. Super glue breaks down around 120F so that’s no good. I have some JB Weld that stuff is rated for 500F, I might dab some of that under the foil to hold it in place.

Now to cut the foil for the other side, that stuff is a pain to cut without tearing. Luckily it’s thin enough I can use household scissors and not tin snips lol

[EternalArianne]

Got both sides all foiled up and glued down! Once I get the lens made and attached it will hide some of the imperfections (I hope).

[EternalArianne]

You can’t really tell from the pic but I got the lenses installed. I actually had a thin plastic sheet that was the cover for an old workplace award from a place I hated, so it got sacrificed lol. I glued it down around the sides and top with the same clear JB Weld I used to hold the foil down. The bottom I left open for any moisture/bugs that find their way in to get out.

I’d say it doesn’t look too bad for not spending ANY money, just stuff I had laying around. But now comes the time to spend money. I gotta get headlights and the wiring plugs to hook into the existing harness on the tractor…

[EternalArianne]

Another update: I did end up putting some tiny screws in the corners of the lenses in case the glue fails. Here’s what it looks like actually installed on the tractor. Next is wiring and bulbs!

[Leadslingingdaddy]

Free is always good!

[EternalArianne]

Got the wiring all done, again free using leftover bits I had. I found another one of the OEM bulb connectors for $1 on eBay, gonna order that and some bulbs and it’ll be done!