Headlight Does Not Close Completely
07-26-2016, 04:33 PM
#1
Racer
Thread Starter
Member Since: Aug 2007
Location: New Rochelle New York
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Headlight Does Not Close Completely
Hello Everyone,
I have a 1982 Corvette. Both headlights open together all the way. However, when I go to close them, the left one closes completely while the right only closes about halfway. If I wait about 10 to 15 seconds then the right one finally closes all the way. Any ideas what the problem could be? Thank you
Biaggio
I have a 1982 Corvette. Both headlights open together all the way. However, when I go to close them, the left one closes completely while the right only closes about halfway. If I wait about 10 to 15 seconds then the right one finally closes all the way. Any ideas what the problem could be? Thank you
Biaggio
07-26-2016, 05:10 PM
#3
Melting Slicks
Member Since: May 2015
Location: Cape Girardeau Missouri
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Pretty good chance that the problem is the shaft seal on the actuator. Replacement kits are available from the vendors. Do a bit of searching for good instructions on how to install.
To diagnose any problem you need a vacuum pump. A hand pump like Mitee Vac works wonderfully--you can find at any auto parts store and they are inexpensive.
Unfortunately OEM actuators and relays are no longer available. The aftermarket replacements are junk--if they actually work upon receipt they go bad incredibly quickly. The relays can be repaired--search here for places to send them as well as instructions if you choose to DIY. Only the operating shaft seal of the actuator can be replaced.
If you have no idea of the age of the vacuum hoses I suggest replacing them all while you're in the process of repair. Even hoses that look and test fine are often stretched out and leaking slightly at the ends. Add up a lot of slight leaks and you get a big leak
The hose kits from Doc Rebuild are excellent!
To diagnose any problem you need a vacuum pump. A hand pump like Mitee Vac works wonderfully--you can find at any auto parts store and they are inexpensive.
Unfortunately OEM actuators and relays are no longer available. The aftermarket replacements are junk--if they actually work upon receipt they go bad incredibly quickly. The relays can be repaired--search here for places to send them as well as instructions if you choose to DIY. Only the operating shaft seal of the actuator can be replaced.
If you have no idea of the age of the vacuum hoses I suggest replacing them all while you're in the process of repair. Even hoses that look and test fine are often stretched out and leaking slightly at the ends. Add up a lot of slight leaks and you get a big leak
The hose kits from Doc Rebuild are excellent!
07-26-2016, 05:18 PM
#4
Safety Car
Since it is still working, try spraying some oil on the rod, seal and the other mechanicals.
Place lights in the open position and pull the override under the steering column. The each headlight has 4 small Phillips head screws holding the bezel in. Remove the bezel for access or you can try coming in from the back side with the hood open. You can also access it from underneath but it's a tough reach.
Place lights in the open position and pull the override under the steering column. The each headlight has 4 small Phillips head screws holding the bezel in. Remove the bezel for access or you can try coming in from the back side with the hood open. You can also access it from underneath but it's a tough reach.
07-26-2016, 05:22 PM
#5
Safety Car
Removing the bezel also gives you access to the headlight height adjuster and stopper. This will set the headlight level with the body when closed and the stopper keeps the headlight from bouncing around when open.
Good luck
Good luck