Breaking open a BMW spotlight body - anyone done it?

[Borderbob]

When I acquired my 2015 1150 GSA, it came with the factory fitted spot lamps. Clearly the bike had gone over at some point and one of the plastic mounting brackets that goes through the upper body of the thing snapped. No surprises there. I knew about it when I bought it as you could see the somewhat crude Araldite mend that had been done. It was only a matter of time ... and the at time has come. But I can't get into the bloody thing. If I could, I can make a metal replacement bracket and fit it form within, before reassembling. Clearly the casing is a 2 part moulding and I guess clicks together. But before I apply any more force than I already have (and not succeeded) just wondered if anyone else has been there. Removing the back only facilitates bulbs changing. Or I guess has a spare one they wouldn't mind selling. Appreciate any advice.

 

[Slipperyeel]

You're going to have fun with that. I had a pair (now sold) but I had a third, which was broken and I bought with the sole idea of an attempt to fit more robust mounting lugs. I tried disassembling and I can tell you they're glued together. You'll have to think of a way to hold it all together again if you do get it apart (because you had to cutting it open). A dremmel with a cutting wheel and a steady hand are what you need.

The bad news is, the light off them is just not worth all the trouble (IMO). Unless you want to preserve the original looks, then it would make sense, I guess.

Maybe others have have had better luck (patience) than me. I'd be interested to hear.

 

[MikeO]

When I acquired my 2015 1150 GSA, it came with the factory fitted spot lamps. Clearly the bike had gone over at some point and one of the plastic mounting brackets that goes through the upper body of the thing snapped. No surprises there. I knew about it when I bought it as you could see the somewhat crude Araldite mend that had been done. It was only a matter of time ... and the at time has come. But I can't get into the bloody thing. If I could, I can make a metal replacement bracket and fit it form within, before reassembling. Clearly the casing is a 2 part moulding and I guess clicks together. But before I apply any more force than I already have (and not succeeded) just wondered if anyone else has been there. Removing the back only facilitates bulbs changing. Or I guess has a spare one they wouldn't mind selling. Appreciate any advice.

Unfortunately, I have a feeling that lamps in exactly that state are dotted around in drawers full of broken bits in garages all over the country. They were a bad lamp before they were broken - cut your losses and get something different.

I rather like the mounts that came with them, though, so had some brackets made to fit some alternative lights to them...

 

[Borderbob]

Yes you are right, they weren't that good anyway. Maybe I'll keep the switch and the brackets and start again. Thanks.

 

[Borderbob]

Unfortunately, I have a feeling that lamps in exactly that state are dotted around in drawers full of broken bits in garages all over the country. They were a bad lamp before they were broken - cut your losses and get something different.

I rather like the mounts that came with them, though, so had some brackets made to fit some alternative lights to them...

That looks a good solution. Can I ask, where did you get those form and do they pump out usable light?

 

[MikeO]

They gave out good light, but were unreliable and the LEDs failed frequently. I've given up on them and am fitting a different design. If you do a search for LED lights, you'll find a couple of threads with links...

Mike

 

[Borderbob]

Thanks Mike. Exactly what I shall do. Cheers.