headlight bucket question

[bnam]

Are they handed -- with different left and right sides? How can you tell?

My headlights are pointed wide left and wide right respectively on drivers and passengers side and wondering if the buckets were installed incorrectly.

THx!

Byas

[jerry]

no... only one configuration. you need to adjust yours with the thumbscrews.

i just disassembled 6 sets to be sent for cadmium plating. all identical....

[02Les]

The parts book shows a left and a right headlamp assy, with different part #s.

What part is different I do not know.

[c.d.iesel]

there is a RIGHT and LEFT bucket

the light cup and adjusting frame are different

when assembled

a few years back only one side was

available NEW from bmw

if you use two of the same side - then you need to

use many washers and tweek the cup so your lights align properly,

AND so they fit in the light grill openings symetricly

THERE IS A PROPER LEFT AND RIGHT

[bnam]

You are correct!! I just compared the buckets. There is a significant difference. The buckets are welded to the frame at different angles. Look where I am pointing and compare with the other headlight mount.

 

Now, what did the bucket and mount look like originally? Was it all cadmium plated, or was it black or was it body color? Pictures of new one would be helpful

Thanks!
Byas

Edited November 7, 2013 by bnam

[jerry]

i stand corrected. i was WRONG.

although the metal stampings are identical for both sides, when viewed from the top downward you will notice that the inner ring is spotwelded slightly cantered leftward or rightward.

i learned something new. thanks FAQ. just saved me some unnecessary heartburn down the road....

edit: aw shucks, you beat me to it. thanks for the photos above.

original finish is cad plated. i intend to spray paint mine silver or black for added corrosion protection. i'm more concerned with rust than strict adherence to originality.

[John_in_VA]

The ones I've seen have been silvery, like yours. Try Eastwood Cad Silver or Krylon Dull Aluminum sprays.

[bnam]

Another question: What are part number 3 & 4 on here? I don't have those on my headlights.

[02Les]

Another question: What are part number 3 & 4 on here? I don't have those on my headlights.

3 Gasket, part # 63 12 8 650 109 (same for both sides)

4 Spacer Ring left, part # 63 12 8 650 105

4 Spacer Ring right, part # 63 12 8 650 106

[bnam]

Neither Maximillian nor RealOEM list these parts. Are there any other sources for this or are they NLA?

Thanks!

Byas

[MildSeven]

here's a photo I put together following the advice of other (found on the 02faq)... hope it helps others.