rhys

Have there been any threads on the procedure for changing (replacing) headlamps on an '82? I have searched and can't find such. If not, would someone with knowledge please post the procedure? I would really like not to pay my mechanic $80 (each side) plus the cost of the headlamp to do a job that I hopefully can do myself.

SharkSkin

Here ya go: http://www.billsworkshop.com/P928S4/h5toh4/h5toh4.htm

Just ignore the parts where Bill discusses the different wire connectors. You should be able to put any reasonable light in there without modifying the wiring(H5 is *not* an upgrade unless you currently have candles in there!)

Rufus Sanders

I have an 82, and just did this two weeks ago. It's really easy. Just raise the headlights, then find the 3 philips screws that hold the shroud on. They are located at 12 o'clock, 4 and 8 o'clock

The shroud just come off if you pull it to the rear, and you'll see the silver crome ring that fits over the edge of the light. This just slides off, but be carefull to note the locating tabs that allow the three screws to seat properly.

After that its obvious to jsut remove the screws that hold the light in place and unplug it.

This is covered in detail in the Owners Manual if you have one. - Ruf

SharkSkin

Good point Rufus -- here is the relevant page from the '78 Owner's manual:

Fabio421

Yep, just did this a week ago. I replaced with H-4's. So far I'm not impressed, but my adjustment is way off. My headlights are searching for gophers. There are some very nice replacement lamps available at your local auto parts store. I was looking at some (after I ordered the H-4's) at Advanced Auto. They have 4 choices, all are better and brighter than stock sealed beams and they are only about $19 each. All in all this is a very easy job. If you can change your spark plugs you can do this. In fact, its easier to do than spark plugs IMHO.

One word of advice I can give. Pay special attention to the chrome ring before you take it off. It is held on w/ three tabs. One goes inside a slot and the other two go over the top of a slot (or vice versa). I didn't pay attention that closely before disassembly and it took me a little while to figure it out.

rhys

I prefer to wait to read the owner's manual until I have already screwed up the task

SharkSkin

Fabio, I'm surprised that you're not happy with the H4s. I'm curious to hear your thoughts after you get them adjusted properly. Are the lenses yellowed, any corrosion on the reflector? What other cars do you have that may have raised your expectations for headlights?

JHowell37

Click on the following link to properly aim H4 headlights
http://www.danielsternlighting.com/tech/aim/aim.html

Fabio421

Yeah yeah, I got it the first time.

I think its probably the aim thats making them seem "not so bright". They are pretty bad. When I pull onto my street, there is a bend in the road ahead of me and there is a house on the bend. I can be three houses away (typical suburban fron yards) and my headlights will not illuminate that house.

JHowell37

Sorry had link trouble.

Properly aimed H4s designed for left hand drive vehicles will throw some extra light onto the right side of the road to illuminate road signs and possible obstacles. The low beams do have a sharper cut-off at the top because more of the light is focused on the road. With the high beams, you should be able to see a very long distance.