1956 Cadillac original headlight?

[carguyblack]

Could anyone tell me what the exact headlight was in the 1956 Cadillac? I have a 12 volt T-3 bulb in one of my cars that I was wondering about.
I had heard about T-2 but not the T-3. The old bulbs as not as bright as the new style halogens, are they?  My other headlights just read "2" on them. Thanks for any clarification.  Chuck

[Alan Harris CLC#1513]

No, the old bulbs are not as bright as modern bulbs. They give out a light that is more yellow.

GM started putting glass aiming lugs on their headlights for 1958. Any Guide lamp on a 1956 GM car would not have originally had the aiming lugs cast into the glass.

Alan Harris
CLC# 1513

[J. Gomez]

Chuck,

This guide may help you.

http://www.modifiedcadillac.org/documents/Multiple_Years/Guide%20to%20T-3%20Headlights/tn/Guide%20to%20T-3%20Headlights.jpg.html

Good luck..!

[Mike Josephic CLC #3877]

As Jose's info points out the 1956 was the first year where the aiming lugs
were cast in the glass lens.  It's also the first year for the "T-3" logo on the
lens.

The "T-3" logo varied over the years so if you're going for authenticity, look
carefully at what relacement you purchase.  The upside is that many of the
"T-3's" are being reproduced.  They wre NOT the same year-to-year.

Mike

[carguyblack]

According to the link Jose referred to, it looks like the bulb I have is a 56-57. This makes sense since it originated from one of several 1957 Eldorados being used for a Biarritz convertible restoration. From it's condition, I doubt if it was a reproduction. Thanks for the confirmation, Jose!
Cool, now I just need a second one and I'm all set! Chuck

[TonyZappone #2624]

I have had a number of 56 cars.  The original headlite bulbs had a frosted glass background within the triangle area.