Help - removing headlight assembly

[apotocki]

OMG - I cannot believe this. Was installing my switchback turn signal bulbs. After fighting to get the passenger side out (driver’s side super easy) and the new bulb in....Apparently somehow when I was reinstalling it the bulb came out of the socket and dropped into the headlight assembly. I see no way to get it out other than removing the entire assembly. Any insight into how to do this?.....and is it an easy job or another one that is a pain to do?

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[Trigganometry]

Try a magnet on a string or a flexible wand type. If not then the gripper fingers that are plunger activated should be able to fish it out

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

Alan, that really sucks.

If Rick’s (@Trigganometry) suggestions don’t work, head to the boneyard - pick your XLT up with one of these, turn it upside down, and give it a few good shakes - just stand underneath it and catch the bulb when it rattles out. Works every time. ?

 

[apotocki]

Try a magnet on a string or a flexible wand type. If not then the gripper fingers that are plunger activated should be able to fish it out

That will not work. The led switchback is pretty large and plastic. Only option is removing the assembly. Has anyone removed this?

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

That will not work. The led switchback is pretty large and plastic. Only option is removing the assembly. Has anyone removed this?

Oh man - try this thread....

https://www.ranger5g.com/forum/threads/xlt-to-lariat-headlamp-upgrade.2750/

 

[Dahveed]

It's not a simple task, but not hugely daunting either. You'll have to remove:

• Cowl over radiator and headlights
• Air deflector behind grille
• Grille
• Valence between headlights and bumper

Check out all the Lariat headlight upgrade threads and this video:


I've swapped my headlights. Took me about two hours total maybe? The hardest part is the valence. It has three bolts in the middle that can be reached through the lower "grille" opening (if you have ACC, the radar will likely be in the way), and one bolt on the left and right behind the fog lights. Those two are a bigger PITA. I used the video above and got everything apart mostly without issue. Other than snapping a clip on my radiator cowl. Oh well.

You might get lucky and be able to fish it out with something like this: RAM-PRO 36” Flexible Grabber Pickup Tool, Extra Long Retractable Claw Retriever Stick, Snake & Cable Aid, Use to Grab Trash & a Drain Auger to Unclog Hair from Drains, Sink, Toilet & Clean Dryer Vents - - Amazon.com

 

[apotocki]

It's not a simple task, but not hugely daunting either. You'll have to remove:

• Cowl over radiator and headlights
• Air deflector behind grille
• Grille
• Valence between headlights and bumper

Check out all the Lariat headlight upgrade threads and this video:


I've swapped my headlights. Took me about two hours total maybe? The hardest part is the valence. It has three bolts in the middle that can be reached through the lower "grille" opening (if you have ACC, the radar will likely be in the way), and one bolt on the left and right behind the fog lights. Those two are a bigger PITA. I used the video above and got everything apart mostly without issue. Other than snapping a clip on my radiator cowl. Oh well.

You might get lucky and be able to fish it out with something like this: RAM-PRO 36” Flexible Grabber Pickup Tool, Extra Long Retractable Claw Retriever Stick, Snake & Cable Aid, Use to Grab Trash & a Drain Auger to Unclog Hair from Drains, Sink, Toilet & Clean Dryer Vents - - Amazon.com

Thank you both. UGH. I had a feeling it wasn’t going to be easy. Well....I know this isn’t ideal but I think I’m going to have to live with it sitting in the assembly for a bit. I know removing the grille and shroud can be another ordeal because the clips can break. It’s really cold here in Michigan and I think I’m going to wait until it warms up a bit (cold=brittle plastic). Just my luck.

 

[apotocki]

You might get lucky and be able to fish it out with something like this: RAM-PRO 36” Flexible Grabber Pickup Tool, Extra Long Retractable Claw Retriever Stick, Snake & Cable Aid, Use to Grab Trash & a Drain Auger to Unclog Hair from Drains, Sink, Toilet & Clean Dryer Vents - - Amazon.com

Thanks again. I think I’m going to try something like this first. I kinda doubt it will work but maybe I will get lucky.

 

[NickTheEnforcer]

I've used a shop-vac before..

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

I've used a shop-vac before..

That idea sucks. ?

 

[apotocki]

HOORAY!!!! I got the bulb out and reinstalled it. I now have switchback parking/turn signals and very very happy.
Thank you Dahveed! I used a flexible grabber tool. It took me over an hour but I finally grabbed it just the right way and it came out! It was very challenging as you are almost blind and can barely see inside the lense from the outside.
I think how I did this was the passenger side is terrible to get to and when I attempted to put the bulb in the lense I didnt have it inserted straight and moved it around to try and line up the socket....I’m sure all the movement and wiggling jarred it lose. Be careful!!!!
I am so happy - it’s time for a beer!

 

[apotocki]

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