headlight assembly removal for painting

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Nov 27, 2008 | 05:25 PM

goldengoat2

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: Aug 2007

Posts: 140

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From: Erie Pa.

headlight assembly removal for painting

I am preping my 78 for painting, What is the best way to remove the headlight assembly. thanks

Nov 27, 2008 | 05:31 PM

john roth

Racer

Joined: May 2005

Posts: 417

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From: Red Deer Alberta

If you can avoid moving it...........do. It's a lot of work tearing it apart and it's more work putting it back together (4 years later). Minimize.

Nov 27, 2008 | 06:08 PM

thegazman

Drifting

Joined: Apr 2008

Posts: 1,305

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From: Lewisburg WV

thegazman

If you are painting your car a metallic color leave the headlight covers on. I removed mine when I had my 79 painted and they painted the covers separately. When you stand in front of my car the headlight covers look like they are a different color as the metallic lays differently than the rest of the hood and front end.

Nov 27, 2008 | 07:12 PM

goldengoat2

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: Aug 2007

Posts: 140

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From: Erie Pa.

it's red, no metallic

Nov 28, 2008 | 08:46 AM

thegazman

Drifting

Joined: Apr 2008

Posts: 1,305

Likes: 2

From: Lewisburg WV

thegazman

If it's non-metallic red you will okay taking the headlights for painting. You get a better job around the edges. Whiles you have the headlights out install all new plastic bushing and pivot points for continued smooth headlight operation. It's extra work, but worth the effort.

Nov 28, 2008 | 09:10 AM

eastltd

Drifting

Joined: Jul 2006

Posts: 1,871

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From: Sault Ste. Marie Ontario

Quote:

Originally Posted by goldengoat2

I am preping my 78 for painting, What is the best way to remove the headlight assembly. thanks

Do you still have the bumper reinforcement and cover in place? If so you will struggle to get them out. I found it was best to drop them out the bottom. You may have to remove the grill and lower valance to gain better access. There are only 4 bolts holding them in place. Once you you have them loose, fish them out. Its not easy, but you can do it. Careful with the rad!

After removal, check the header bar close for any signs of rust or separation and make any repairs before you paint.

When you're ready to reinstall the units, tape every thing up well to avoid chipping the fresh paint while installing and adjusting the assemblies.

I have several pics of the process. PM me if you need them.

Nov 28, 2008 | 05:40 PM

1974ta

Melting Slicks

Joined: Feb 2004

Posts: 2,111

Likes: 32

From: Damascus MD

If you can come up with an excuse to pull the radiator and support the job is a lot easier and you will be less likely to damage the paint putting them back in place. However, pulling the radiator and support can have its challenges too.