ok everybody, what is the best way to get the lenses off of these, (in one piece), on an '88 Cougar? and what is the best way to reattach them after?? Thanks in advance.:bowdown:
Just a thin serrated blade to chisel/se into a corner of it until you can begin pulling the plastic pieces apart from one another. I found with the stock glue, it cracked well enough to pretty much just pull the thing apart, working around in a circle. The only time I actually broke the plastic (was the headlight lens) was when trying to take apart a headlight after I had already epoxied it back up before. I found a standard silverware knife to work well at prying.
I think I used "2 ton epoxy" at that time. Its basically the same as all of the 2-part epoxies found in hardware stores. I used the stuff thats half clear, half a yellowish tint. Dries clear.
From then on, i just epoxied the corners and used silicone to fill in the sides. Works great and seals well.
I ran mine under really hot water while slicing/prying/pulling. It made the plastic more pliable and less likely to crack or break.
I haven't put them back together yet.
Thanks guys!! :bowdown:
I separated mine using a putty knife and gently pried it loose a little at a time from each end.
To put back together, I used permatex clear lense glue/sealer.
Lense has stayed on and I've had no moisture problems.
I'll see how it goes this weekend. Thanks.:D
Well, I got the park lamp and corner lamp apart, but the headlight is being a real bitch.:mad:
I just let mine fall off :D
yeah it requires bravery and a steady hand for that for sure. little hijack here but after buffing my lenses i noticed the chrome reflectors are in sorry shape. anyone know the best solution for this? maybe chrome spray paint or some type of adhesive reflective material?
This has been discussed here a couple times. Basically nothing short of getting it "rechromed" (however they do it) will work well. Paints will do nothing. I found that aluminum tape, applied and polished, works well.
thanks. i'll look into that
Tip: New headlights.
Yes they are expensive as heck. But definately worth it!
I thought mine were clear and not yellowed nor scratched with good looking shiny reflectors.
But my car was casting a shadow in front when someone with good lights was behind me.
I bought a new set from diamonds777 on ebay for $125.
What a differance! Now I can see whats ahead of me on the road.
I think something else is going on with the old plastic like some microscopic cracks which don't pass the light through.
Anyway seeing is beliving.
Engine mods cost more, and what fun are they if you can't see where your going?
lol... i know the feeling.
While that is the best option for Thunderbirds, I don't think Cougar owners have that luxury. The lights are discontinued, AFAIK
Come on guys, cougars have rectangular lights!
There are millions of them, something has to fit?
I've got zero options with something cut at angles which haven't even been taught in high school geomety.
The only headlights that work with the '87-'88 Cougars are the ones from the '88-'94 Lincoln Continentals and those aren't made anymore either.
Mustang ones won't fit and I have not seen or heard of any other that would either. We are just SOL when it comes to headlights unless the aftermarket picks them up. I would grab a pair quick if I ever found some.