3.2 Headlight bulb replacment

[JB052]

Hi guys

I'm trying to remove the H4 headlights on my 1988 3.2, so I can install better quality bulbs.

I can remove the outer trim ring OK, but then I'm faced with a large plastic type sealing ring with two screwheads in it which I presume are adjusters. But I can't see how to remove the headlight itself.

The Bentley manual refers to four screws which need to be removed but I can't see any sign of these.

Any guidance would be appreciated.

Cheers...JB

[rich 36]

Pelican

[JB052]

Thanks Rich,

I had already looked at the excellent Pelican site, but the headlamps they are dealing with do not appear to be the same as mine. The site appears to refer to an earlier type or is possibly relevant only to US cars.

Regards...JB

[rich 36]

Oh, well they are usually pretty good really,
try here
else describe your set up a bit, as it might be not unlike mine

[dilbert]

I think it's the big one at the bottom, inside the trim ring and out IIRC. The outer screw screws into the inner screw. It's a bit like the mirror cap screws you use for securing mirrors to the wall.

The only thing i would say, is that this is about the worst time of year to do it. The big problem is keeping the moisture out of the assembly. With the headlights it's critical because the reflectors are silvered steel (not silver steel). If you get moisture trapped in the assembly then the reflectors go rusty from the back.

[rich 36]

Dilbert;

I think it's the big one at the bottom, inside the trim ring and out IIRC. The outer screw screws into the inner screw. It's a bit like the mirror cap screws you use for securing mirrors to the wall.

Yeah thats mine to.

It actually clips down on a small flange in the top of the headlamp bowl, the other visible screws, will be adjustment only so best leave them alone

[JB052]

Thanks Rich/Dilbert,

You were spot on, I removed the small mirror type screw and the unit came straight out. I will take your advice about the damp problem and bring them into the house overnight so the bulbs are installed in a dry atmosphere.

I had read about cleaning the inside of the lamp unit to improve the quality of light, but they appear to be quite clean already and difficult to get at. I'm putting the Osram Silver- Stars in as they appear to get about the best reviews. I'll also do one side first for a visual comparison.

Regards...JB

[rich 36]

Make sure you can undo both sides first, as the two-part bolts are rust traps,
on the plus side I have a brand new pair of them in the drawer, should the worst happen
Rich

[rich 36]

found em'


Also if you have any up-down play in the steering wheel, this is the easy to pop in fix, if your on a roll!