The process of gluing glass into the headlight can be done with improvised means, and inexpensive available compounds can be used as glue. In order to avoid problems with new glass later, it is important to know the sequence of work.
You need to glue the glass into the headlight in two cases: if it is broken and if you need to replace the bulb. For this work, no special tools are required, a screwdriver and improvised means are enough.
What glue to use?
Poxipol is considered the best binder for bonding glass and reflectors. It is a versatile two-component epoxy-based superglue that hardens like metal when cured. It does not change volume, does not deform, makes it possible to drill a surface or cut threads without hindrance. Poxipol does not break: it is hard, but elastic, moisture and heat resistant, therefore it is optimal for gluing car glass.
The process of gluing glass into the headlight
At the beginning of work, you need to disconnect the power from the headlight. After that, you need to carefully lift the plastic strip, which is attached to the headlamp with clamps, with a sharp flat object, and remove it. Next, you need to remove the headlight. If the glass is broken, then you need to free the reflector from the fragments remaining in it.
The next step is to remove the old sealant. To do this, you need to heat the reflector with a building hair dryer. When the adhesive has softened, gently scrape it off with a blunt knife or other suitable object. During work, you need to ensure that moisture does not get on the chrome coating and does not damage it, as this may darken the reflector.
If a hair dryer is not available, a solvent can be used, which must be applied in small portions to the surface of the sealant. In order for the work to be done accurately, it is recommended to use a syringe. After 1-2 minutes, the adhesive will begin to dissolve, at which time it must be removed from the reflector surface. It is important not to let the solvent come into contact with its chrome-plated surface.
The gluing of new glass is done very carefully. As a binder, you can take not only Poxipol, but also any universal or automotive sealant. The main thing is that it is transparent. If you decide to use a car sealant in your work, you need to warm it up before applying it: put it on a heater or under hot water for 5-10 minutes. Before gluing, the surface of the headlight in the desired place must be degreased.
A sealant or glue is applied in a thin layer not to the glass, but to the headlight housing and let it dry for a while. The binder layer must be uniform and without breaks. After that, glass is applied to the glue strip, which must be fixed in the desired position with tape or electrical tape. After 24 hours, it will firmly adhere to the headlamp, and you can safely refit it.
