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Old 09-28-2018 | 02:37 PM
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Keith Bliss
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Default Downgrade Headlights

Hi. I have a 2004 C4S and too much sunshine has ruined the Litronic headlights. They are too expensive to replace so I thought I would order new standard halogen ones. I believe they will fit but will they work or does any wiring need to be changed? Any other problems apart from reduced lighting?! Thanks for your help.
Old 09-28-2018 | 02:42 PM
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There is a current (i.e. amps) difference between the Halogen vs. Litronic (i.e. HID) headlights. They would physically fit, but more than likely, you'll get a MIL. You're better off getting a shop to buff the oxidation and UV treat them. Normally, this procedure can be done for about $150 each.
Old 09-28-2018 | 02:46 PM
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I've buffed dozens of sets of lights for all different kinds of cars.
Normally they look brand new when done.
The Porsche 9x6 is one of the easiest to do.
If you're in the Houston area, hit me up and I'll do it for free.
Otherwise look at the Meguires kit and do it yourself.

All you need other than the kit is a variable speed drill, some water, dishpan, and a bicycle pump.
Bicycle pump is for removing the washer nozzle covers safely.
Old 09-28-2018 | 05:42 PM
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What a nice offer TexSquirrel….if you were closer I would take you up on it...I did it once and did it all with manual labor....was a lot of work but results were great. I am always afraid of using power....How long does it take you.
Old 09-28-2018 | 06:11 PM
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I used the liquid wipe on and wipe off stuff off the shelf. The results are amazing. At some point I plan to do them right and clear over them but at least I can now see what's behind the lenses...
Old 09-28-2018 | 06:14 PM
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z driver 88t
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I did mine a couple weeks ago. Mine were a little too far gone to use the Meguiars kit, so I just popped them out and wet sanded them. I started with 1000 then 1500 then 2000 and finished with 2500. Relatively easy and hard to screw it up. Just a spray bottle of water and some elbow grease. I spent about 45 minutes on each light. best part is that you can pop them out and do it in front of the TV. Afterwards I sprayed the lenses with Meguiars sealant that comes in their headlight kit to provide some UV protection.
Old 09-28-2018 | 06:24 PM
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I start with a 1000 grit sanding block and then follow up with 3000 grit sandpaper.
Then finish with a liquid polishing compound on a buffing wheel.
Then I finish with a UV protectant.
It normally takes me 20-30 minutes per headlight.

I don't use the Meguires kit anymore, but that's how I started.
The kit will do many headlights. (probably a dozen)

Last edited by TexSquirrel; 09-29-2018 at 06:09 PM.
Old 09-28-2018 | 10:21 PM
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I refinished mine while watching tv then took them to a tint place and they put uv protective film on for 50 bucks.
Old 09-28-2018 | 10:33 PM
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I recently purchased two really ugly yellow clouded Xenon headlights off eBay for a great price.
40 minutes later they look almost like new.
Now i can switch back and forth between my headlights with headlight covers and stock looking headlights.
Old 09-29-2018 | 04:58 AM
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Elbow grease it is then! I have used cleaning products before but the Portuguese sun just bakes it again. I have missed the UV treatment so that's where I have gone wrong. Much appreciate the advice and offers of help.
Old 09-29-2018 | 12:22 PM
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After I have doing my headlights I had expel put over them for UV protection. So that is another alternative.
Old 09-29-2018 | 01:47 PM
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Originally Posted by lowpue
After I have doing my headlights I had expel put over them for UV protection. So that is another alternative.
That’s the best way to do it IMHO.
Old 09-29-2018 | 01:52 PM
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Originally Posted by TexSquirrel
I start with a 1000 grit sanding block and then follow up with 2000 grit sandpaper.
My headlights are in desperate need of this treatment. I was thinking it was all hand sanding with simply paper but you mention you use a [rubber] block? I was concerned that would be too stiff and add flat spots to the curves. Any words of advice or caution on this front?

Your posts are encouraging me to get off my duff and get this job done.
Old 09-29-2018 | 06:06 PM
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It’s not a rubber block.
It’s this:



I buy them at Home Depot.
I was wrong on the final grit that I use. (Brain fart)
I use 3000 grit.
Then I finish with a polishing paste.
Old 09-29-2018 | 08:04 PM
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Get the kit and give it a try, just make sure to mask off the area around the light if you don't remove them. If it doesn't work well enough you haven't spent much on the kit


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