Hi everyone. Nice informative forum you have here!

I just removed a broken tail light assembly on an 1983 Mercedes 300SD.
I have the new one ready to install, but can't seem to make it fit snug, in fact as i try to install the new one and screw down a bolt the other end will stick out about 1 1/2 inches.

What is the proper way of installing a tail light assembly in these cars, as i don't want to hammer it in and then break the new one?

Is there a trick for putting these in? Do i put it long side first? short side first? both at the same time? and how do i push in the seal without breaking the plastic.

Your help is MUCH Appreciated!!!
Thanks,

Adam

I can't imagine anyone having a problem getting it back in there. Does it compare,(on the backside) exactly to your old one. There is no flex in those screws and the holes are not adjustable. I would think that if it is visually the exact same piece, you are not placing it in there correctly.

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Junqueyardjim
Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important. C.S. Lewis



1983 Mercedes W123 240D 4 Speed 285,000 on the road with a 617 turbo, beautiful butter yellow, license plate # 83 240D INDIANA

2003 Jaguar Type X, AWD. beautiful, good mileage,
Mom's car, but I won't let her drive it!

The design of the taillight is not the best. The housing has studs that extend from the rear of the unit and from the side of the unit. Therefore, these two directions will fight each other when you go to do the install. If you put the side all the way in and secure it with a nut, you'll find that you cannot get the rear to engage at all.

You've got to finesse it carefully and engage all studs at the same time..........it will only go at one point...........then it slides inward and seats on the gasket.

Have patience.........and don't even think about a mallet.