115 Chassis -Disconnect Tail light assembly - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Roger · #1 08-11-2002, 05:15 PM

I need to disconnect my tail light assemblys from the wiring harness so I can remove them completely from my '75 240D.

I plan to spray paint (chrome) the reflectors without having to mask the rear end of my car.

It appears the assemblys connect to the harness at a rectangular plastic plug a few inches from the assemblys, but I am unsure how the plugs come apart. I am afraid the connections may be brittle, so I would like to know exactly what to attempt.

Would appreciate any help / suggestions.

Thanks

dabenz · #2 08-11-2002, 05:49 PM

My electrical connector is on the back of the light casing. I've never had it apart.

If the issue is "dark" lights, then it may just be soot on the inside of the lenses, which attach via the round knobs on the back of the casing. Loosen them, then loosen the lense from the gasket, then remove the nuts and pull out the lens. Soak the lenses overnight in a bucket of dishwashing soap and water. It's a common issue with diesel cars as the gasket shrinks over time.

The casing itself attaches with four screws that go through to the outside chrome piece.

MikeTangas · #3 08-11-2002, 06:37 PM

You'll be pleasantly surprised with the reflectors after the chrome paint job. Really brightened mine up. As was stated in the other post, the harness connects directly to the back of the assembly with a good sized connector. It will likely be tight but careful pulling/wiggling will get it.

Don't forget to either tape or coat the sockets with di-electric grease. If you don't they'll get painted and you'll have no contact and no lights.

Did you do a search on "brighter stop lights"??

Roger · #4 08-11-2002, 07:09 PM

dabenz,

Thanks for your reply. Unfortunately my problem is not dirty lens.

I have already had the lenses off. Washed both although they were surprisingly clean, inside and out. The rubber gaskets are in good condition. My problem is the reflector. Cannot clean or polish either one. The bright coating is mostly gone. The recoating with chrome paint is a fairly common fix.

No problem removing the assembly, just worried about how to disconnect the wires.

FYI -- Previous owner stopped his problem of soot deposits on the rear end when the car was quite new by adding an exaust extension that directs exhaust down slighty. Its still there, 25 years and 1 exhaust pipe later

Thanks,

Roger · #5 08-11-2002, 07:34 PM

Mike,

Thanks for the reply.

Yes, I saw the post and followed the thread here and on another site, bought the chrome paint months ago, but cannot master the connector.
I will certainly mask the bulb sockets.
I see the attachment on the back ( I was remembering the attachment to the Side markers

). However, I can only remove the top connector, but still clueless about the main connector. Does it pull straight back? Slide down? Require a spell from a Wizard?

MikeTangas · #6 08-12-2002, 10:37 AM

As I recall, there should be one connector for the cable that runs to the other assembly and the main connector (maybe 10 pins??). Tight fit, and they lift straight off. No sliding, no locking tabs just a straight, tight fit.

Using a very small, thin tipped screw driver you can try to start the separation with care, then finish by hand.

I think on the 108, I unbolted the assemblies prior to pulling the connector, which allowed for better access.

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