Euro head light glass clips

[Benz Dr.]

Anyone have any pointers on how to install those little C shaped clips that hold the head light glass to the frame? Either you put the clip on the glass first or on the frame first but either way can lead to unhappy results.

Any help would be welcomed.

[Cees Klumper]

I've typically put the clips onto the body first, then use a sharp hook to 'pull' them gently over the glass - it takes some force as these clips are surprisingly strong.

[mbzse]

Yes, body first.
I sometimes use  a small L-shaped Allen key.
Or, a loop of copper wire (when in position, cut wire and pull out)

[GM]

Funny - I do the exact opposite. I hook the glass first and then hook the rear over the bump on the metal. I tried the above method the first time and chipped the glass.

[cfm65@me.com]

I am with Gary on this one. Forcing the clip over the metal is preferred to forcing it over the glass.

[Garry]

I am also one that has tried both ways and chipped the glass when trying to go from Body to glass.so went with fitting over glass then onto the metal.

[114015]

Me too.
Made the same experience... 
After some chipped lenses, only the second way like Garry and Gary posted works properly.
The other way round is too dangerous...


Achim
(usedeuroheadlightassembliescollector)

[Cees Klumper]

I agree, it does take exceptional skill 

[Benz Dr.]

Thanks guys. I kind of thought so but you can never be completely sure until you ask.

[hkollan]

Having restored about a dozen of these headlights over the years, my conclusion is,
glass first.

Hans K

[Cees Klumper]

I guess that the intuitive reason for me go put the clips on the body first is that the act to pull the clip over the second ridge (in my case, the glass) puts the most stress of the whole procedure on the first ridge (my case: the body). Once it's over the second ridge, the tension is lowered. So I rather put that extra stress on the body, not the glass. But happy to give the other method a try, next time.