'90 Headlight Motor Replacement

[seajayiii]

Hi All. Okay ... here's my question. I have read practically every thread regarding headlight motor repairs on the C4 Corvette. All seem to discuss the work and parts needed to replace the three bushings in the headlight motor gear. I was able to find a complete headlight motor, bracket and wiring harness included (from a trustworthy friend). It has already been rebuilt. So rather than rebuilding the failing headlight motor on my '90 Vette, I have decided to just replace the headlight motor with the rebuilt motor I have. Must I remove the entire headlight assembly to replace the whole motor? Are there any tips or tricks to removing the old motor and replacing it with the new one?

 

[onedef92]

Personally, I think it's easier to replace the motor bushings. You're creating more labor for yourself (and spending considerably more money) by replacing the entire assembly, IMO.

 

[seajayiii]

Actually, I pulled the headlight assembly and motor out of the car this afternoon. The whole job, including swapping the motor, reassembly, and installing it back into the car took about 1 1/2 hours. And only one busted knuckle. It's a bit tricky but it is DEFINITELY easier to replace the motor with the whole headlight assembly out of the car. Whew!

 

[onedef92]

Actually, I pulled the headlight assembly and motor out of the car this afternoon. The whole job, including swapping the motor, reassembly, and installing it back into the car took about 1 1/2 hours. And only one busted knuckle. It's a bit tricky but it is DEFINITELY easier to replace the motor with the whole headlight assembly out of the car. Whew!

Well, hopefully the bushings in your new motors will last a long time. I think 7 to 10 years (depending on useage) is the estimated service life before they crumble completely into powder and stop working.

 

[seajayiii]

I hope you are right. I figure within 7 to 10 years, I'll want a different Vette, if you know what I mean I had to move quickly on this job to get my '90 inspected. Now, I have noticed that the other side is starting to make some funky noises. I figured that was gonna happen. This time, I am gonna try rebuilding the motor (replace the bushings) before the motor gives up the ghost. Now, I have a year before the car needs to be inspected again. That ought to be enough time to get 'er done.

 

[onedef92]

I hope you are right. I figure within 7 to 10 years, I'll want a different Vette, if you know what I mean I had to move quickly on this job to get my '90 inspected. Now, I have noticed that the other side is starting to make some funky noises. I figured that was gonna happen. This time, I am gonna try rebuilding the motor (replace the bushings) before the motor gives up the ghost. Now, I have a year before the car needs to be inspected again. That ought to be enough time to get 'er done.

Be sure and replace both bushings. If you've got one side going bad, the other is sure to follow.

I'm sorry I wasn't able to save you a whole heap of money. The bushings run around $7.95 for a set of three at Mid America or Ekcler's. Much cheaper than the $150.00 you spent on a rebuilt motor assembly.

I bought my bushings from Home Depot for less than $2.00 and they're still going strong more than four years later. Other users said the HD bushings did not last as long.

You pays your money and you takes your chances, right?