Fog Light Assembly Replacement...difficult?

nobycane74 · Jun 28, 2017

Good morning...

I am curious if anyone with their 97-02 Expeditions, specifically '00-02 (which is closer to my model), has attempted or been successful in replacing their OEM fog light assemblies?
I am not looking at going all crazy with new hi-tech or fancy assembly replacements that require modifications in the assemblies or in wiring...but looking to replace the same style / size that I have now but a better looking quality for cleaner look.

OEM Style (right)........New Replacement (left) Size not to scale in pic.

I am wondering if it is rather difficult to replace them or not? It appears to look like it might be an easy pop-out and replace and plug back in....but looks can be deceiving.
I am looking for an easy way to swap them without issues.

Comments, suggestions, welcome.

Thanks in advance.

jseales · Jun 28, 2017

Because of the age of our vehicles, buildup of rust on the threads can be an issue. I have a new set on my shelf waiting to be installed. From what I have read, it would probably be easier to remove the bumper for the removal and install. This is what I plan on doing when I get a chance. There are other threads discussing bolts breaking during removal.

nobycane74 · Jun 28, 2017

Oh boy...the threads breaking. I did not take into account that, if that would occur, that might put me into a "screwed, blued and tattooed" scenario.

But are the threads the type that can be removed with a socket set? or they something different? I have not gotten on the ground and slid under the truck to investigate yet...its too hot here in SWFL to try yet.

jseales · Jun 29, 2017

I am in the Panhandle, hot and humid lately, get yourself a large motor floor fan. Yes, a socket set will do. From what I have read so far, you can try something to lubricate the threads after brushing them or heat the threads before removal. This is why you want to remove bumper first. On my '97 it is four big bolts and the light connectors, then the bumper is off.
I added the clear Lightning style lights, so this upgrade will make all the front lights look similar. Well worth the day, or less, it will take to remove and replace.

nobycane74 · Jun 29, 2017

jseales said:
I am in the Panhandle, hot and humid lately, get yourself a large motor floor fan. Yes, a socket set will do. From what I have read so far, you can try something to lubricate the threads after brushing them or heat the threads before removal. This is why you want to remove bumper first. On my '97 it is four big bolts and the light connectors, then the bumper is off.
I added the clear Lightning style lights, so this upgrade will make all the front lights look similar. Well worth the day, or less, it will take to remove and replace.

Many thanks my friend... I am going to try to light up the underside to see the conditions of the bolts, etc.
I appreciate the suggestions and comments....

1955moose · Jun 29, 2017

Look at the article from about a day back on Exaust manifold I and others http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfrecomended Kano labs kroil oil. It's a good rust penetrant. You can pick it up online, or walmart. Spray the bolts well, let it penetrate. You'll stand a better chance of removing them without breakage. Hope that helps.

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1955moose · Jun 29, 2017

Sorry don't know how that craigslist prompt got there. I was bouncing back and forth and must have pasted and transferred it by mistake.

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swagfu · Jul 11, 2017

I did mine. I honestly didn't have any issues. Maybe 30 minutes total to do both sides. I did take it somewhere afterwards to have my headlights and fog lights adjusted properly. They only charged me $25. One tip I have is that you don't have to be under the truck really, I turned the wheels all the way to one side or the other and was able to do from there. You can kindof see at least one of them here.

And here you can see the headlights. I did these before the fog lamps. Together they make the truck look newer than it is.

nobycane74 · Jul 12, 2017

One tip I have is that you don't have to be under the truck really, I turned the wheels all the way to one side or the other and was able to do from there.

Wow...thanks for the tip, I really did not consider that turning the wheels options, I did not seem to think there might not be much room to that...thanks for the tip.

Jeff55v · Jul 13, 2017

I replaced my headlights and fog lights. Yes, I laid on my back and did it in about an hour. I did have some rusty bolt issues. Nothing too difficult though.
I installed some clear lensed fog lights that look much more modern than the old diffused style.

Fog Light Assembly Replacement...difficult?

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