What is the clear pipe going to front light?

[ThreeDLee]

I changed the main front light today on my car and when taking the grill and light compartment out there was a clear pipe running to the back of the light where you adjust the angle.... it snapped where it was so brittle. the pipe runs behind the grill somewhere... looks like a water or air pipe.

do i need to replace it? what is it?

i have e30 touring 1990 plate.

Lee

[Rtaylor2208]

Most likely from an old headlight wash wipe system thats long been removed

[scallyally]

Hi ThreeDLee, It's (or was) the hydraulic levelling system for the lights. This is a sealed system and cannot be repaired. 99 percent have failed. Pop down to your friendly BMW dealer and order 2 off 63.12.385.397 (bolt)£9.75ea. And 2 off 63.12.1.378.369 (bush)£2.14ea. Remove grill, remove h/light assy (3) large screws, (disconnect lights), remove hyd. Cylinders (twist) and substitute with bolts and bush (one each side) Check the Wiki for info. Lights will have to be reset.

[Brianmoooore]

scallyally is correct about the function of the pipe, but there is absolutely no need to fit any replacement parts.
The hydraulic cylinder that the pipe connected to has a knurled ring around it that provides adjustment when you turn it, and doesn't tend to seize up like the bolt and bush type adjuster.
When the hydraulic units fail, they default the light's aim to its lowest position, and it's possible that the correct aim is outside of the range provided by the knurled adjuster. If this is the case, there's a second adjuster, in the form of the threaded steel rod that goes from the front of the hydraulic cylinder to the headlamp, which can be screwed out a couple of turns or so, to bring the correct aim within the range of the knurled ring.

[ThreeDLee]

Thanks guys i had to put a new main light unit in so it had the stone age adjusters attached so its all good.