What’s My Best Option For Clear Headlight Lenses; Buy EDM, JDM or Used Ones And Mod?
05-29-2017, 06:49 PM
#11
Thank you S2ki bro's, just stumbled onto this thread and I have always wondered about the process of cracking an headlight opening and resealing them. I have been skeptical since I have seen opened headlamp that eventually ended up with serious condensation issues. Thanks for the tip of clamping them in, I think that might be the problem was that they needed to be clamped while the adhesive is cooling for a optimum sealant that wouldn't cause condensation when it rains. I own an AP1 and would love to upgrade to an AP2 version of the headlights but would want to retain the AP1 projectors as it has one of the best cutouts out there. I love the cut out on the AP1 for sure. It's definitely one of my next add-on's since I have seen aftermarket AP2 headlamps on ebay presently.
05-30-2017, 08:29 PM
#12
Thanks Chris, you're absolutely right about the heat gun. Tried it, failed and was about to send them for the installation, which costs nearly $500 with shipping, when I thought about what you said. Gave the oven a try and presto! First headlamp (I placed it on top of a wet towel and put painters tape around) 225 degrees for 15 minutes, took some effort but I did it. Second light. 225 degrees for 17 minutes made it easy-peasy. Same for putting it back together - put the lamps on and placed them in the oven for 17 minutes / 225 degrees. That made them pliable, allowing me to put the tabs and position it right without any hiccups.
It's a bit nerve-racking at first but after you do it once, it's a peace of cake.
05-30-2017, 08:33 PM
#13
Thank you S2ki bro's, just stumbled onto this thread and I have always wondered about the process of cracking an headlight opening and resealing them. I have been skeptical since I have seen opened headlamp that eventually ended up with serious condensation issues. Thanks for the tip of clamping them in, I think that might be the problem was that they needed to be clamped while the adhesive is cooling for a optimum sealant that wouldn't cause condensation when it rains. I own an AP1 and would love to upgrade to an AP2 version of the headlights but would want to retain the AP1 projectors as it has one of the best cutouts out there. I love the cut out on the AP1 for sure. It's definitely one of my next add-on's since I have seen aftermarket AP2 headlamps on ebay presently.
05-30-2017, 08:51 PM
#14
Euro LHD headlights have the above mentioned issues and JDM RHD headlights suck b/c of the RHD beam cutoff.
It's quite easy to bake your headlights and pull them apart to change the diffuser. Set your oven to 270 deg and bake for 7 min each. I like to place them on a flat piece of wood in the oven. start prying them apart and just be careful not to get the stringy glue on important bits and you'll be fine. Buy some clamps from the local hardware store for when you put them back together--clamping the 2 halves shut while waiting for the glue to set helps immensely.
I'm considering upgrading my Euro Headlights (Pre Facelift / AP1) with US AP2 Headlights (complete set)
I'm just hoping I'll have no swapping issues (connectors or other things), then I'll sell my Euro Headlights (complete)
05-31-2017, 07:13 AM
#15
And what if you buy a complete set of Headlights ? (ballasts, bulbs, etc)
I'm considering upgrading my Euro Headlights (Pre Facelift / AP1) with US AP2 Headlights (complete set)
I'm just hoping I'll have no swapping issues (connectors or other things), then I'll sell my Euro Headlights (complete)
I'm considering upgrading my Euro Headlights (Pre Facelift / AP1) with US AP2 Headlights (complete set)
I'm just hoping I'll have no swapping issues (connectors or other things), then I'll sell my Euro Headlights (complete)
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