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My first thought on the subject of automobile electrical systems is for you to purchase an Electrical Manual for your Thunderbird. C. T.C.I. has these available for only $5.00, and this now covers all three years. This manual is worth many times the purchase price. Even if you don't intend to tackle the problem yourself, your mechanic will probably find the problem quicker with the aid of your manual.
The original headlight bulbs for the 1956 and 1957 Fords were #6012. These have been superseded by #6014.
Bulbs #1034 and #1157 are interchangeable. The only difference is that the #1157 is a heavy duty bulb. They both have the same candlepower, but the #1157 has a heavier filament wire.
The original 1956 and 1957 radio bulb was a #1185. My radio repair shop has informed me that the bulb is no longer available and that I should use #1445, and the bulb for the '55 is #51.
There are some bulbs that you might want to change to a higher candlepower in order to see them better during the day. One of these would certainly be the dash turn signal indicators. Be careful here to be sure you purchase the same type of base, that the glass portion of the bulb is not too large, and that you stay with the same voltage. All 1955 Fords were produced with a 6 volt electrical system while the 1956 and 1957's came with a 12 volt system.
If you are experiencing the same fuse blowing again and again you most likely have a problem with the system involved, either in the wiring or in the unit itself. It is not recommended to use a higher amperage fuse and certainly a "no-no" to wrap the burned out fuse with tin foil. The latter temporary remedy will probably result in damage to your electrical wiring, or to the electrical unit involved. Use the right size fuse. Too small an amperage will blow on ordinary current.
If you are having problems with your power seat or power window circuit breakers you probably have a worn and tired motor or a binding track or mechanism. Repair the problem first and then I recommend that you replace the circuit breakers involved. Circuit breakers tend to get weaker after they have "kicked out" several times.
Electrical problems can be a real night mare, but when you have fought the battle and finally solved the problem it is a very rewarding experience.
Again, I emphasize the benefit of acquiring an Electrical Manual and gaining some basic knowledge on electricity and the reading and understanding of wiring diagrams.
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