<all>Clear Lens Tailights-Proper application

[r browne <r_browne@xxxxxxxxx>]

If you've "upgraded" to the ever-popular clear lens/Euro lens
(although, from what I hear, most BMW's in Europe actually have yellow
lenses...go figure) taillights, be sure you have the proper set for
your vehicle.  I purchased a like-new set used off of the 'net, and
never checked the function of the brake lights til recently.  Found out
that my drivers side brake light was not illuminating.  Per the Haynes
manual, a red/blue wire runs from the brake light switch, to the
passenger side taillight assembly.  From there it connects to the pass
side brake light, and also goes back out the wiring harness via
another red/blue wire, over to the drivers side light.  My pass side
euro taillight had a different pin configuration than my stock lights,
with a pin missing that would contact the red/blue wire that goes to
the drivers side.  There are several remedies for this, one being to
simply add a wire or add a pin to solve the problem.

Sources tell me there are two different types of taillight assemblies.
One for OBC equipped cars, one for cars without OBC.  Sounds like I
probably have the one for OBC.

This is probably not an issue for new lenses purchased from retailers.

Ron Browne
1992 318is
Bowie, MD


Ron
It seem to be more of a problem for those of us that do not have the OBC
on our E36 325i. The pin connections are different from the stock lens.
I would always get the dreaded "brake light or brake circuit warning."
This would occur initially even if the brake lights were working. Called
the manufacturer up and discuss. They had specific instruction on
modifying the taillight lens if you do not have the OBC. You are suppose
to remove/cut the "bridge" on the lens circuit board. Well, that didn't
work either. Finally had a friend who works for Underwriters Laboratory
who figured it out. Seems the circuit board was manufactured to take the
dual filament bulb to light two different lights whereas BMW used it to
light one light. Now the bulb socket does not make constant contact at
the brake light. I have to turn it ever so slightly to get it to
illuminate everyday. Looking for a different socket now. Yep, they look
great but have been a PIA since day one
Henry
92 325i clear taillights finally working...last time I looked.

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End of bmw-digest V9 #868
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