Tail light lens removal

Kermit

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Is there a write up for this? Got some new lenses for the Aspen Wagon, but am not sure how to take the old ones off the housing. Any help is greatly appreciated.
 

Justwondering

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I know how to do the Fifth Avenue, but know nothing about the Aspen.

Someone with more brains about it will chime in.

JW
 

Kermit

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I know how to do the Fifth Avenue, but know nothing about the Aspen.

Someone with more brains about it will chime in.

JW
I hope so, night driving is scary with the current pink/non reflecting lenses. Definitely not something I thought of when picking the aspen for a daily driver! I figured out the side markers:
20180317_132006.jpg
20180317_140352.jpg
 

Oldiron440

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If I remember correctly the tail lamp Lenz is held on to the base with a gray ribbon rope tape. You have to carefully pry the lenz off without breaking the base then clean up the mating surface an apply new adhesive. If I remember I used a nice bead of RTV as an adhesive, it worked without fail.
 

Kermit

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If I remember correctly the tail lamp Lenz is held on to the base with a gray ribbon rope tape. You have to carefully pry the lenz off without breaking the base then clean up the mating surface an apply new adhesive. If I remember I used a nice bead of RTV as an adhesive, it worked without fail.

Any idea what you used to pry it with? I assume some heat(hair dryer) might help things some.
 

Kermit

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Purposely switched to the Volare lenses, I think the look cleaner. Not too bad of a job, just heat the lenses up in the oven to about 150 degrees for about 15 minutes. Then I stuck a screwdriver in both holes where the lights go, and then carefully pushed. Cleaned with hot soap and water, dried really well, added adhesive and installed lenses. Took about an hour and a half all said and done.
 

BudW

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They make a product that cleans and polishes plastic tail lights. You might be able to sell your old ones on eBay, or something and recover some of your money.

I do recommend installing new bulbs before the lamps go back into car, though.

Did you get new side marker lamps, as well?
BudW
 

Oldiron440

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Thoroughly scuff the lenses with either a scotch brite or 1000 grit sandpaper. Then clear coat with your favorite clear, lacquer, urethane whatever. The tail lights will look like new.
 
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