w210 headlight snafu

[landev]

Well, I'm 'bout at my wits end with the OEM headlights in my 96 E300D. Initially, I had some leakage when I first bought the car... it looked like a tropical rain fWell, I'm 'bout at my wits end with the OEM headlights in my 96 E300D. Initially, I had some leakage when I first bought the car... it looked like a tropical rain forest in the enclosures and the light output was feeble (to say the least!) I also found that he wiring's insulation was severely cracked (but there is no replacement wiring harness that I have been able to find.)

I found that the problem with the light output was due to faulty and cheap bulbs as well as poor alignment. I have since replaced all the bulbs with the Sylvania H7 bulbs (WOW!!! what a difference!) but I am still having problems with leakage when ever there is a slight bit of rain!

I have taken both light assemblies out and sealed around the lenses with silicone sealant and around the back cover and the front/back joint in the housings with silicone grease. The result is that there is still leakage whenever it rains!!!!

I have had both assemblies out (going on) 5 times now! As sure as I am about having sealed them (each time), they still leak!!!

I am open to suggestions at this point. Is there a replacement that will give me great lighting, won't leak, and won't cost me a fortune (too much to hope for?) From what I've heard, the projection avenue is a lousy alternative. If anyone knows how to keep the damned OEMs from leaking, I'll entertain re-seal # 6 (though this won't solve the cracked insulation problem!)

Thanks in advance!

-l-