An easy upgrade without drilling bodywork panels
An alternative solution to mirror mounting
The Ford Popular 103E and 104E (1953 to 1959) was a budget car sold by Ford to fill the void of affordable cars in post-war Britain. Using a de-chromed body from the discontinued Anglia with the old 1172cc sidevalve engine, the car was extremely basic to keep the price as low as possible. Only the commercial (van) versions were supplied with external mirrors; the saloon car had just the interior rearview mirror.
Currently, there are no hinge-pin mounting mirror arms available (as used on the commercial models). Not wishing to drill the door or bodywork, customer Nigel Chaffey decided to drill the replacable hinge plate instead.
Nigel chose the ever-popular 651 mirror (equivalent to the Lucas 406 model). These have a 106mm head with a stainless steel back and a single 8mm mounting stud. Available with flat or convex glass.
NOTE: the mirror’s mounting stud will need to be cut down for clearance.
Nigel reports that the mirrors provide excellent rear vision to the driver.
Lucas 406 type classic wing mirrors
NOTE – here we use a L/H mirror for the driver’s (R/H) mirror. Flat & Convex glass is available
Fitting Details
The hinge will need drilling with an M8 drill bit.
The mirror arm is usually mounted to wings, but for hinge use it will need to be shortened. Protect the chrome with plenty of tape. Add washers and M8 nuts to the shaft to allow for the hinge thickness plus rubber gasket, spring washer, securing nut.
A fine cutting disc will be the easiest method. Unwind one nut to straighten the thread, and lightly chamfer the sharp edge with a fine file. Don’t forget the spring washer and a dab of Loctite when fixing in place.
Cutting mirror mounting shaft
Please note
All articles and guides are provided only for the interest of classic and vintage car owners. Much of the information presented will be old and it may be that since the period source material was created, better solutions have been found. A certain level of mechanical and/or electrical knowledge will be required in undertaking work as described in these articles, and anyone unsure of their abilities is advised to seek professional assistance.
Vintage Supplies Ltd cannot be held responsible for any breakages and injuries that may occur, while working on a vehicle following any guides provided. With older vehicles being exempt from MOT checks, responsibility for vehicle safety and legality rests entirely with the owner.
