P80 headlights Possible to Remove Headlight Reflector, rechroming discussion 8628402 8628403

WhatAmIDoing · Post by **WhatAmIDoing** » 12 Aug 2018, 08:28

So to put it bluntly, my headlights are about as good as some cheap flashlights taped on the front bumper. I've looked at buying new assemblies, but even for "cheap" aftermarket I can't justify the price. However, I've had an idea for a cheaper DIY solution, assuming you can do this. Is it possible to pull the reflectors out of the headlight assembly?

I have a friend that runs an electroplating business. He usually does chromium plating, but says he can use other shiny metals. So I was thinking, if I can pull the reflectors out of the assemblies, I can clean them up and have them electroplated to be nice and shiny again. I hope Volvo used all-metal and not coated plastic reflectors.

I have a set of new glass lenses I got free from a friend, so this would complete a "free" headlight restoration without having to buy new assemblies.

Post by **erikv11** » 12 Aug 2018, 08:47

They are plastic.

WhatAmIDoing · Post by **WhatAmIDoing** » 12 Aug 2018, 09:12

*various expletives* Darn, was hoping I was on to something, thanks. Looks like I'll have to shell out $600 for new headlights.

Post by **misha** » 12 Aug 2018, 11:00

Plastic can be chromed...those reflectors are chromed but procedure is a bit different than on metal.

Why don't you visit a junkyard?There should be a plenty of good headlights.

WhatAmIDoing · Post by **WhatAmIDoing** » 12 Aug 2018, 11:05

misha wrote: ↑12 Aug 2018, 11:00 Plastic can be chromed...those reflectors are chromed but procedure is a bit different than on metal.

Why don't you visit a junkyard?There should be a plenty of good headlights.

Every time I'm lucky enough to find a P80 at a pick'n'pull, the front is mashed in and the headlights destroyed, or someone already helped themselves to the headlights. I'm 0 for 12 at the moment for getting anything useful from a junked 850.

Post by **E Showell** » 20 Aug 2018, 14:48

I may have a couple decent headlights but won't have access to my stash 'til late Sunday if you can wait.

WhatAmIDoing · Post by **WhatAmIDoing** » 21 Aug 2018, 13:11

E Showell wrote: ↑20 Aug 2018, 14:48 I may have a couple decent headlights but won't have access to my stash 'til late Sunday if you can wait.

Thanks E Showell. I am in no hurry on this project. More pressing things at the moment (leaking sunroof, seized caliper).

redc70 · Post by **redc70** » 21 Aug 2018, 18:52

FWIW, 111131 - Headlamp Assembly Left - P80 C70 V70 S70 - 8628402, replaced my left unit with this after a trip to Utah. Driving long desert stretches at night with the original was scary. The new one here made a huge difference. I really wanted some smoke projector headlamps but these will do. $89.95

Post by **E Showell** » 03 Sep 2018, 09:15

I've got one decent driver's side headlight. Most likely aftermarket ( no discernable markings on it) with original Volvo glass. PM if interested.

Post by **yair** » 03 Sep 2018, 13:30

I have L +R headlights that I took off our 850.
PM if you are interested, I'm located at Vancouver, BC.