Hi Everyone,
I am very grateful for your comments and advice on this matter, led bulbs do seem to be the answer and as I have been pointed in the direction of at least one supplier who does them with positive earth I don't have to change the polarity of the car. I was pleased also that they can do headlamp bulbs with BPF fittings which is great as I want to use the original style lamps, at least initially, I think on balance I will keep the rear light fittings but put the indicator bulbs in them and move the reversing lamp possibly to under the bumper.
Not sure what to do yet regarding the high level brake light but I think the blind has already gone so will probably fit one.
A company called Car Builder Solutions has some interesting light units and led strips available but most are too big and too modern for a 401 or 403 but if you wanted to change the rear lights on a 405 to look like the latest model this is the place to go, I did consider some of their heater units as well but as the heater rads were ok I am leaving everything standard for the time being.
Geoff.
Car Builder Solutions - Kit Car Parts and Accessories