Headlight Replacement?

[tymarbry]

So I feel dumb for asking such a simple question. But how and the hell do you change the headlights on any Datsun 240-280z? its very hard for such a simple thing!

The way I tried to do it was:

Removing dust/mud guard thing from inside the front fender wheel well.

This allows me to get to the 4 Hex head Screws.

After taking out all 4 screws I then push the headligh in towards the wheel so I can remove the 3 Bezel srews to the headlight.

Then Taking that off and the the headlamp itself.

But there must be an easier way. The FSM just outright baffled me.

So please help for a new guy like me to the S30 chassis!

[grantf]

Thats how I replaced mine (78 280). I know sort of a pain in the arse for such a simple matter.

[tymarbry]

I know thats right.

Well I was just checking to see what the consensus was and Im sure there is only one way and its the way described.

Kind of off topic a bit, but does anyone know how to upgrade the wireing harness to include relays for the headlights to prevent shorting out and blowing a fusebox and all that good stuff?

Thanks

[H4LIGHTS]

Someone sent this to me awhile ago:

It may be generic enough for 240Z-280Z.

[tymarbry]

Where do you instal these relays though?

And what amp and type of relay? like a 4 or 5pt? I have no knowledge of electronics really.

I want someone to furnish photos if possible because I like most people are visual and helps alot.

Im gonna save this wire print though in case I can figure it out.

Thank you!

[DougN]

I just changed one of mine out recently and had to do it the same way... Fortunately you dont have to change them very often

[H4LIGHTS]

Where do you instal these relays though?

And what amp and type of relay? like a 4 or 5pt? I have no knowledge of electronics really.

I want someone to furnish photos if possible because I like most people are visual and helps alot.

Im gonna save this wire print though in case I can figure it out.

Thank you!

Zs-ondabrain offers a harness that should help you:

http://www.classiczcars.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20365

[tymarbry]

Well if someone versed enough in electrics could give a small walkthrough and some pictures I could probably do this myself. I dont really want to spend nearly $125.

[Powderkeg]

Reese,

I second the recommendation for Z'sondabrain.

Go to zhome.com

Look under the "Documents" section

then "Index of Technical Articles".

"Body Electric"

"Lights/Lighting".

You'll find a couple of articles about making your own harness.

Dave Ruiz

[bluezcrazy]

Not sure what everyone else thinks about them but, I bought the Headlight Harness Upgrade from Black Dragon Automotive. It's only $30 plus shipping. I'm sure it's not as good of quality as what Zs-ondabrain makes, but I don't have the money to spend on that either. Works great with my new Autopal headlights.

Bryce

[5thhorsemann]

I had to replace one, when I saw what a pain in the arse it was to replace, I went ahead and installed the Halogen housings that accept the newer style bulb only. Then I put a set of GE blue bulbs in it. Lights up the night now.

[CoastGuardZ]

! I remember when I went to replace mine... I must've sat in the garage starring at it for like half an hour saying "There's no one way I'm going to have to take off the tires to change the headlights"... Well I did. Guess she's a little low.