Can't get the headlights open!

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Dexter

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Well today I decided to start working on my latest project: Retrofitting Acura TSX projectors into my stock Expy headlights. I read a few guides on how to do it and the project is well in my comfort zone. I popped one of my headlights in the oven at 225F for 15 minutes and then tried to pull them apart. I held the clips up and tried pulling the lense off...It didn't budge at all. From what I read it shouldn't be this hard and I didn't want to break/melt anything by sticking them back in. Is there some trick to these?
 

panda24619

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let it sit longer. try 20 mins then 25 then 30 and so on. there is a fine print that says, time varies with lights. so give it a try with a longer time.
 
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Dexter

Dexter

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Some guides say 200F some say 250F. What temp should I be comfortable baking these things at?
 

sgtowing

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Not trying to be a smartass but be careful.

Sent from my DROID BIONIC using Tapatalk
 

ELVATO

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I don't remember what temp I set mine at, but it took 10-15 mins in the oven. Once you can get a little bit started, pull and they come undone in less than a minute. If you have to, work a little at a time pulling a bit, then sticking them back in for 2-3 mins, then try again.

I had a spare set so I didn't care too much when tried it. I put them in the rack, so one of them started to warp in the corner. I'd recommend getting a least one spare headlight in case you mess up. Especially with your Limited lights. The way I see if, get a cheap pair, and open those up. If you succeed, paint them black and keep the stockers untouched.

Also, I was doing this with an oven glove on. They will be hot when you first pull them out. If you can comfortably touch them, they're not hot enough. I think the temp was either 215 or 250.


EDIT: Nevermind, I guess my memory isn't what it used to be :p It was 200 degrees for 12 mins.

http://www.f150online.com/forums/ap...w-take-03-06-expedition-headlights-apart.html
 
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Dexter

Dexter

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I don't remember what temp I set mine at, but it took 10-15 mins in the oven. Once you can get a little bit started, pull and they come undone in less than a minute. If you have to, work a little at a time pulling a bit, then sticking them back in for 2-3 mins, then try again.

I had a spare set so I didn't care too much when tried it. I put them in the rack, so one of them started to warp in the corner. I'd recommend getting a least one spare headlight in case you mess up. Especially with your Limited lights. The way I see if, get a cheap pair, and open those up. If you succeed, paint them black and keep the stockers untouched.

Also, I was doing this with an oven glove on. They will be hot when you first pull them out. If you can comfortably touch them, they're not hot enough. I think the temp was either 215 or 250.


EDIT: Nevermind, I guess my memory isn't what it used to be :p It was 200 degrees for 12 mins.

http://www.f150online.com/forums/ap...w-take-03-06-expedition-headlights-apart.html

VERY helpful. Thanks. I was considering putting them on a piece of damp wood in the oven to prevent them from melting.
 
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ZombieSoldier

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I always do 215 for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure it's face down on a terry cloth towel.... Nothing worse than seeing the lens start to melt inward!
 

2000eb

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just me i wouldnt put wood in the oven even if it was wet...
 
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