condensation in headlamp..

[M3RAGS]

right. My m3 has developed a headlamp with condensation. What is the best method to take apart, clean, dry and reseal a lamp unit. I read Simon has done this.

Also, what is the optimal way of ensuring the alignment of the headlamps as mine are about as useful as candles currently!

Many thanks
Rags

[Simon]

My smoked hellas started condensating inside not long after I had them, what I did was to take the backs off them, then applied heat to the outside of the lens until the condensation cleared, when re-fitting the backs I made sure they were done up tight, applied a little grease, and on the headlamps made sure the three LHD/RHD adjusting screws were done up tight. Since doing this I haven't had any major problems except for a slight bit of misting in really bad weather in the bottom of the right headlamp which soon cleared.

As for the alignment, take it along to your local MOT place and ask them to set them up.

[Guest]

I just unflooded mine this am. I wash the condensation down with isopropanol and a 10 ml syringe and a long needle. all borrowed from a lab. I have never figured out where the water gets in. the reflector has corroded so it is probably worth sorting out properly first time. I get the impression it is a problem with the sealing between the cap and the back of the reflector. The dealer sells a new cap for 15 quid each and they do not sell the relatively flat rubber washer that sits in the cap the failed part. B and Q or other Good luck