E24 lights - UPDATE

[MisterFixit]

I know this is an E28 forum, but there are lots of us with interest in both E24 and E28 forums, since they share so many parts. So here is my story, updated with a success...
Good News on the E24 project - SUCCESS! First complete install and restoration went in today. Steve has a 1988 635CSi, and has just completely restored the body and paint. Pristine! He wanted better tail and brake lights after seeing my upgrades at a Tech Session I presented to the local chapter of the BMW CCA on February 21. I will be posting pics soon, after I meet with Steve and get them!

I still need E24 tail lights (broken or damaged beyond use) to salvage parts from. I do not need the chrome trim rings on the outside, the lens, or the inside cover, just the black plastic part with the bulbs and wires. Broken or busted OK, damaged but useable OK, or even in good shape if you no longer have the car, or an incomplete assembly. US or Euro are both good.

Bad news- I just learned that a 635 went to the crusher on Tuesday this week, with it's tail lights! this could have helped me improve four other E24s with much better lights!

Pretty Please, look around your garage or keep your eyes and ears open for any E24 rear lights that are in need of a good home, or are willing to become an organ donor in the interest of sustaining the breed. I can, if needed, pay a small amount (or for shipping) for donated parts.

And if someone you know has an E24 they want to keep on the road and in good condition, let them know about how "there's this guy that makes your tail lights way brighter", and point them to me. I will be happy to help them 'be seen, and not hurt'.

Thanks a million,

Andy the tail light guy

[1st 5er]

hmmm...

[MisterFixit]

hmmm...

Yeah, my sentiments exactly. I know how you have been waiting for these, so here you go! I had to use full manual control on the camera, as it tries to outsmart me and washes out completely if I don't.

Here are the pics to demonstrate the results on Steve's E24 after restoring and installing upgrades to his tail and brake lights. Steve has an exceptionally nicely restored 1988 635CSi, and it was a joy to work on! It was under $150 with everything- all parts, all new bulbs, labor. It took a couple of hours start to finish. With repairs to his side marker thrown in as a courtesy.

Here are the upgraded tail lights; the stock one is the bottom section:



Here are the upgraded brake lights; the stock one is the inboard section nearest the license plate:



Here is everything, tail and brake together:


So what is next? As you can see, there is a tremendous improvement in visual profile, this can ONLY make the car easier to see, day or night .... and I know I should have taken pics of the "Before" appearance, next vehicle I will do this to clearly show the difference. Ian has an E24 in Boulder, maybe he is next?

By the way, several nice folks on the board have volunteered to donate the odd broken or spare E24 lights collecting dust in their garage, I still need as many of these as I can get, and I am willing to send you a little money for your trouble, like $10 plus shipping expenses. Please consider putting these orphaned units to good use, and thank you!

Andy