Changing R129 indicator and headlamp lens

[dan1502]

One of my indicators has a small crack and condensation so I have ordered a replacement. The headlamp lens on the same side (driver's) has a stone chip/crack so I managed to get hold of a replacement lens. The car is a 1998 model and has ADS in case that matters.

I can't seem to find a how to on changing these so any help or link to instructions would be great. Does the headlamp have to come out to change the lens? I'm thinking it wouldn't harm to give the area and seals a good clean whilst I'm at it anyway but don't want to break anything in doing so.

[MD5]

Dan,

The indicator lenses just slide along a channel, and are secured in place by the long arm which clicks into place. When you get the new part, the arm will be obvious, then just find the protruding end of it in the engine bay, push it in to release it, and the old unit will slide out. On my 500, iirc, I have to lift up the washer bottle on the n/s for the headlamps to gain access to the arm. I've never changed a headlamp or lens, but if it is like the 124, which it probably will be, it should be simple and intuitive, especially with the indicator lens already removed.

Hurry up with these pics, we're not going to notice (or care about) the odd nick here and there!!

[dan1502]

Thanks. I know, I just would prefer to have at least given it a clean and polish first and besides, it needs to stop raining. At the moment I've been concentrating on sourcing the various bits I need and getting some of the important jobs organised (replacement windows, some bushes and geo and wheel refurb). I've also got very little free time at the moment due to weekends being taken up with stag nights and weddings. I also need to get the old car advertised.... If I get the opportunity I'll take a couple of shots though.

[grober]

MBUSA Technical Training

http://90r129.blogspot.co.uk/

[grober]

Finally 271105d1257712147 coil replacement thru headlight help r129 headlamp removal pdf free ebook download from www.benzworld.org

[dan1502]

Thanks for the last one, that's exactly what I need although I will look to see if it is possible to replace the lens without removing the unit so as not to have to adjust the headlight afterwards.

I've just joined Benzworld. Sorry to be a pain but would you mind directing me to where I can access the rest of the manuals from the site please?

[grober]

there is no specific location for a R129 manual download AFAIK . [ Others may know better??] There are numerous threads which discuss the location of workshop manuals and information online if you do a search. From time to time individual forum members post links to specific PDF's like that one. You just have to do search. You can purchase the pukka R129 MANUAL ONLINE FROM THE MERCEDES CLASSIC CENTRE IN GERMANY.
DVD Informationen für Klassiker, SL-Class R 129 - Digital media Literature, CDs & DVDs - Mercedes-Benz Classic Store

ps its usually possible to replace the headlamp glass from the unit- its held on with a plastic rim with clips- its difficult to do this properly without removing the entire headlight unit- in addition - with age the plastic rim clips can ger brittle and snap very easily so proceed with care!.

[dan1502]

Ok, thanks. I have the replacement glass and it can definitely be replaced. I will probably remove the headlight unit as you suggest. I might also warm the tabs a bit so they're less likely to break.

[BTB 500]

As an aside there are a series of useful R129 'how to' videos that are all on Youtube now I think. I've got them bookmarked at home if you can't find them.

With the indicators you need to make absolutely sure that the locking lugs have fully engaged when you re-fit the unit. It's very easy to have them inserted quite tightly but not completely 'clicked' into place. I lost an entire indicator unit on the M4 on the way to a club meeting some years back, and had to jury-rig this to get home



If not already done, replace the front indicator bulbs with M-B 'chrome' ones. These look much better - you don't get the orange bulb showing through the lens. Not all dealers stock them though - I've used this eBay seller many times for convenience (it's the parts. dept. of an M-B Commercial dealership - you get a proper M-B invoice with anything you order):

21w 12v Chrome looking Orange flashing Indicator bulbs | eBay

They are handy for proper M-B tyre valve covers etc. as well.

[grober]

Here's a preview of the official MB manual Its part of the series I think BTB500 refers to- look for links directly on uTube . There's a lot on the softtop but unfortunately some have been removed

[BTB 500]

Pretty sure I downloaded all the videos (before they went on YouTube) and have them at home.

[dan1502]

Job done. It was very straightforward with the instructions in the link Grober kindly provided being particularly helpful. Although they are for Xenon lights the instructions are the same up to the poing of removing the Xenon specific bits.