Cleaned Euro Light Lenses (Pics) - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

goldenbear · #1 01-10-2005, 10:18 AM

Ever since installing the euro headlamp units just over 2 years ago, the lenses had what looked like a hazy film on the inside of them. Well, I finally got around to pulling the lenses and cleaned them. If others have this issue, it's a very simple project. I believe the results are dramatic.

Simply pull the two top retaining clips and two side clips (one on each side). I removed the screw from the inside part of the valance panel beneath the headlamp and pulled the panel out slightly. I then unscrewed the big wheel nut that holds the side marker enough so the side marker could be pulled out and to the side. The lens would now pull away from the headlamp unit itself enough for me to reach inside and clean with some Griot's window cleaner and lint free wipes.

The first pic is "before", the second and third pics are "after".

Alan Hamm · #2 01-10-2005, 10:33 AM

Did you clean the mirrored surround too? I took one of mine apart before installing because when I scrubbed the exterior I get a little moisture inside the lens. The mirror surrounding the big bulb was coated in fine dust and it was amazing how much it shined being at least 15 years old. I am thinking the Bosch quality might be worthwhile.

Not sure my lens cleaning was as dramatic as yours. Being used, mine are a little sandblasted like my windshield.

goldenbear · #3 01-10-2005, 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan Hamm

Did you clean the mirrored surround too?

No, it wasn't necessary to clean the reflector. I've seen it mentioned in the past that's it's not a good idea to disturb it, for whatever reason.

I neglected to mention that it is important to be careful with the gasket that surrounds the lens. I had no issues with mine, but I suspect some used versions may not be in as good of condition; disrupting them may lead to potential leakage behind the lens if you're not careful.

goldenbear · #4 01-10-2005, 11:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan Hamm

Not sure my lens cleaning was as dramatic as yours. Being used, mine are a little sandblasted like my windshield.

Alan - I would suspect you don't want to spend the money, but replacement lenses are available. Here's one source.

Smooooth · #5 01-22-2005, 10:17 AM

Nice Cold Sub Zero Day Project.................

Take over the Dining Room table and look what you can accomplish........

Stephen

PS - Just finished cleaning the one on the right

Brian Carlton · #6 01-22-2005, 11:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Smooooth

Nice Cold Sub Zero Day Project.................

Take over the Dining Room table and look what you can accomplish........

Mrs. Smooooth must be thrilled.

Smooooth · #7 01-22-2005, 05:00 PM

Brian........

Mrs. Smooooth (aka Swweeeet) is very supportive and I got serious 'Brownie Points' for showing the Dozen Roses I recently sent her..............

Stephen

MTUpower · #8 01-22-2005, 08:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by goldenbear

Simply pull the two top retaining clips and two side clips (one on each side). .

Bosch units have three clips on the top and bottom, and one on each side, and the liberal use of Super Lube (aka silcone grease) on the rubber gaskets greatly increase the life and sealing abilities of these items.

goldenbear · #9 01-22-2005, 09:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MTUpower

Bosch units have three clips on the top and bottom, and one on each side, and the liberal use of Super Lube (aka silcone grease) on the rubber gaskets greatly increase the life and sealing abilities of these items.

Obviously, not all Bosch units, or you're not dealing with 126 units, since mine are OEM Bosch Euros. Furthermore, the sealing capability is not compromised whatsoever. The improvement in light output is worth it, regardless.

Smooooth · #10 01-23-2005, 02:07 AM

Used Bosch Euro's............

3 Clips on the Bottom
3 Clips on the Top
1 Clip on Each Side

And a Gentle Gentle Gentle Touch with the gaskets - all 3 of them.

All the bulbs have been pulled for replacement so as to start off life with a fresh set. Time to reward Mr. Stern for all his good work...............

Stephen

Smooooth · #11 01-23-2005, 02:15 AM

DOH.... I had to read the text and look at the pictures again.

Quote:

Originally Posted by goldenbear

The lens would now pull away from the headlamp unit itself enough for me to reach inside and clean with some Griot's window cleaner and lint free wipes.

I see what you did - You tipped the top of the lens out for cleaning but did not remove the lens entirely......... GOTCHA!!!!! Makes Sense Now..

This is also very good to know that they CAN be cleaned without being completely removed.

Thanks GB!!!!!!!!!

Stephen

Alan Hamm · #12 01-23-2005, 09:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MTUpower

Bosch units have three clips on the top and bottom, and one on each side, and the liberal use of Super Lube (aka silcone grease) on the rubber gaskets greatly increase the life and sealing abilities of these items.

He is right, look at his photo in the first post. Only 2 clips on the top. My used ones definately have 3 clips tip and bottom.

MTUpower · #13 01-23-2005, 08:39 PM

His may have two clips- but on w126's Bosch units there is a space specially made for a clip on both sides of the top and bottom, and a special space made for a clip in the center of the top and bottom, as well as one space on either side.
This turns out to the number I stated. After finding over a two dozen Bosch units in the yards here, they all conform to this. You can have less clips installed than this number, but why?

BTW, there is usually no problems in removing the glass lens completely- I've never had the gasket tear or "go bad" from removing it. Indeed, if the gasket is bad, you'd be better off getting it out and replacing it, or doing your best to get it functioning properly- the gasket cost peanuts compared to the damage a bad gasket can do. Don't forget to grease the two gaskets on the doors for the lamp access while you're at it.

willrev · #14 01-27-2005, 06:25 AM

I really appreciate this post but had trouble locating it again. My Bosch Euros just arrived and since they are used I need to clean them. This is really usefull stuff.

What kind of lint free wipes and where did you get the silicone grease?
I have also never heard of that kind of window cleaner. I hate windex and would like to know of a better product locally available for this delicate job.

goldenbear · #15 01-27-2005, 10:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by willrev

I really appreciate this post but had trouble locating it again. My Bosch Euros just arrived and since they are used I need to clean them. This is really usefull stuff.

What kind of lint free wipes and where did you get the silicone grease?
I have also never heard of that kind of window cleaner. I hate windex and would like to know of a better product locally available for this delicate job.

willrev,

I use Griot's Garage haze free window cleaner and lint free, non-streaking windshield towels. You can purchase them as the Ultimate Window Cleaning Kit. You can also find good glass cleaners at some auto stores, but I'm a big fan of GG's products.