Sport Zagato headlamp dismantling

[andyps]

One of my headlamps has a very poor reflector due to rusting and fading of the silvered parts. I have a pair of Renault 16 lamps which, whilst dimensionally and in terms of lens appear to be identical, have different mountings to the Fulvia ones so won't fit without modification. I would like to separate the lens of the poor lamp from the metal casing so I can get the metal re-silvered, although I have bought some chrome paint as a temporary measure because the recommended re-silverers have long lead times at the moment. I put the lamp in the oven (relatively low heat just below gas mark 1) to try to soften the mastic joining the two parts but whilst I got some out it was still quite solid.

Obviously I'm concerned about over-heating and breaking the glass so before I try again I thought I would see if anyone else has any thoughts or experience of doing this. It's the only thing left halting an MOT pass on my car! I know I don't need an MOT but would like one to prove the condition of the car if ever needed, and for personal peace of mind.

[lancialulu]

I think it is one of those jobs where patience and perseverance are key. I have done a Gamma headlamp which was not that easy but I guess the mastic was softer.

[andyps]

I suspect you are right Tim, I'm very conscious that the glass is fragile and has to be handled carefully! Just thought that if someone else has done it they may have advice. I hoped the mastic being really hard might make it easier but there is a strip that I can't get out with a knife on the flange part so will keep trying patiently.

[andyps]

Successfully separated this evening, no damage to the glass in the process either so pleased so far. The mirror paint seems to work well too - I'll post some photos when it is finished.

[lancialulu]

Successfully separated this evening, no damage to the glass in the process either so pleased so far. The mirror paint seems to work well too - I'll post some photos when it is finished.

Citroen Ami 8 have same glass, if you want a spare over time these pop up.

[andyps]

Thanks Tim, I didn't realise the Ami glass was also the same.

This is the headlamp as dismantled and then with the mirror paint applied. Just got to figure the best way to reseal it on the basis I want to open it up again later this year to get it properly re-silvered.