I replaced both my headlamp bulbs today and whilst there cleaned the inside of the glass and reflector in hope I will get a much brighter view of the road.

When I went to put the stupid thing back together I had a nightmare lol. Should be a 5 min job but it decided to fight me for whatever reason.

I'm not sure if the headlamp is stock or aftermarket but basically when I put the trim back on it was nice and tight top and bottom. But In the middle had a gap and no matter what I did it wouldn't close up. Picture here:::




Now granted its not major but I just wondered if anyone had any thoughts? Is this normal or and I being really silly?

I had these 3 springs inside the trim which look to be the reason it won't go up tight

 

Anyone got any ideas?

 

Looks ok to me. As long as it doesn't wiggle, I'd leave it be

 

Turn the springs around so the spring "tab" fits in the slots around the headlight.

 

I thought about this but there at 3 springs and only two slots. Plus the one of the slots line up with that raised plate bar style thingy which is riveted to the actual back of he headlamp so the spring won't go over it.

 

That reflector is aftermarket, I had one similar many years ago, with that protruding design. That doesn't make any difference to how it fits, as these are all standard automotive headlamps, which will only differ by being left or right hand dip. You simply have to fiddle with those wire clips until they work! I can't see anything wrong.

I will comment on that protruding style however. What I found is that some stray light comes out radially, which in rain, mist or fog illuminates the water particles directly in front of you, meaning they restrict visibility forwards, which is why I eventually dumped mine! I suggest you stick some black electrical tape or similar to the top half, to minimise that problem.

 

Cheers buddy.