1. Introduction
The Forney 56801 is a clear, non-hardened glass cover lens designed as a replacement or protective accessory for welding helmets. Measuring 4-1/4 inches by 2 inches (107.95 mm x 50.8 mm), this lens provides a barrier against dust, weld spatter, and impact, thereby extending the life of your primary welding helmet lens. It is intended for use in conjunction with appropriate welding eye protection.

This image displays the Forney 56801 clear, non-hardened glass cover lens. It is a transparent, rectangular piece of glass, measuring approximately 4-1/4 inches by 2 inches, designed to protect the primary lens of a welding helmet.
2. Safety Information
- Important: This cover lens is a secondary protective component. It does not provide primary eye protection against welding arc radiation. Always use this cover lens in conjunction with a welding helmet equipped with a proper primary filter lens and shade suitable for the welding process.
- The Forney 56801 cover lens meets ANSI Z87.1 Safety Standards, indicating compliance with specific safety requirements for eye and face protection devices.
- This lens is made of non-hardened glass. It can shatter if dropped or subjected to significant impact. Handle with care.
- Proposition 65 Warning: This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
- Inspect the cover lens for any cracks, chips, or damage before each use. Replace immediately if any damage is observed.
3. Setup and Installation
The Forney 56801 cover lens is designed for easy installation into compatible welding helmets. It is known to fit Forney helmet models 55663, 55666, and 55680, as well as many other brands that accept a 4-1/4 inch by 2 inch lens.
- Consult Your Helmet Manual: Always refer to your specific welding helmet's instruction manual for precise lens replacement procedures. Helmet designs vary.
- Remove Old Lens: Carefully open the lens retention frame or mechanism on your welding helmet. Remove the old cover lens, primary filter lens, and any other protective plates.
- Clean Helmet Interior: Clean any dust or debris from the lens compartment of your welding helmet.
- Insert New Cover Lens: Place the Forney 56801 non-hardened glass cover lens into the outermost slot of the lens compartment, ensuring it sits flush.
- Reassemble: Reinsert your primary filter lens and any inner protective plates. Secure the lens retention frame or mechanism according to your helmet's instructions.
- Verify Fit: Ensure the cover lens is securely seated and does not move freely within the helmet.
4. Operating Instructions
As a passive protective component, the Forney 56801 cover lens requires no active operation. Its function is to provide a clear view and protect the primary lens during welding activities.
- Ensure the cover lens is clean and free from obstructions before beginning any welding task.
- Regularly check the cover lens for any signs of damage, such as deep scratches, chips, or cracks, which can impair visibility or compromise protection.
- If visibility is compromised due to spatter or scratches, replace the cover lens promptly.
5. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures optimal clarity and extends the lifespan of your cover lens.
- Cleaning: To clean the glass cover lens, use a soft, clean cloth and a standard window cleaner. Gently wipe the surfaces. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or rough materials that could scratch the glass.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the lens for any accumulation of weld spatter, scratches, chips, or cracks. Even minor damage can affect visibility and protective qualities.
- Replacement: Replace the cover lens immediately if it becomes scratched, chipped, cracked, or if visibility is significantly impaired by embedded spatter that cannot be safely removed.
- Storage: Store spare cover lenses in a clean, dry place, protected from dust and potential damage.
6. Troubleshooting
- Issue: Blurred or unclear vision through the helmet.
Solution: Check if the cover lens is dirty or covered in spatter. Clean it as per the maintenance instructions. If cleaning does not resolve the issue, inspect for scratches or damage and replace the lens if necessary. Ensure the primary filter lens is also clean and undamaged.
- Issue: Cover lens does not fit into the welding helmet.
Solution: Verify the dimensions of the Forney 56801 (4-1/4 inches x 2 inches). Compare these dimensions with the required size specified in your welding helmet's manual. If the sizes do not match, the lens is incompatible with your helmet model.
- Issue: Lens appears chipped or cracked upon arrival.
Solution: Due to the non-hardened nature of the glass, minor chips can occur. If the damage significantly affects visibility or structural integrity, do not use the lens. Contact Forney customer support or your retailer for a replacement under warranty.
7. Specifications
| Brand | Forney |
| Model Number | 56801 |
| Material | Glass (Non-Hardened) |
| Dimensions | 4-1/4 inches x 2 inches (107.95 mm x 50.8 mm) |
| Color | Clear |
| Safety Standard | Meets ANSI Z87.1 |
| Item Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Included Components | Cover Lens (1) |
8. Warranty Information
The Forney 56801 Cover Lens is covered by a 90-day warranty against manufacturer defects. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover damage resulting from neglect, negligence, accident, or use contrary to the intended purpose of the product. Proof of purchase may be required for warranty claims.
9. Support
For further assistance, questions, or to report a defective product, please contact Forney customer support. Refer to the official Forney website or product packaging for current contact information.





