I need to remove the headlight assembly's from my 72. When you remove them as a unit do you take out the 3 bolts holding the pivots in place then remove the bolt on the pivot rod? Any pics of this would be really appreciated. I hope to take them out Monday night. Also if anyone has any pics of the back end of a 72 that shows the seems that go from the license plate out would be appreciated as well. My rear panel has been modified so I want to see what its supposed to be like. Thanks and if you need an email address to send it to its rod7515@verizon.net.
Rodney


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Speaking from recent experience, you are in for a bit of work!  If you remove the pivot bolts, you release the tension on the four springs.  So instead, you remove the five bolts that hold the headlight assembly frame to the body.  There are two under the  bumper, and three into the hood edge reinforcement.  BUT FIRST........

I think the only way to get them out is to remove the hood and the center bumper brace.  Then cover the painted surface to protect from scratching, and twist and turn until you get them out between the hood opening and core support.  You might also need to remove the long, thin rod that goes from the bottom of the core support to the nose.

I am replacing a lot of parts on the front of my '70, which is identical to your '72.  I have had the headlights in and out a dozen times.  They will not quite fit through the grill openings, and there is no room to go down, so your only choice is back and up.  I still have my radiator out, but I believe there is room to maneuver with it in. 

The AIM has a good picture of the headlight assembly to help you with repairs.

Sorry I don't have better news.  Good Luck!
Larry

Larry,
I ended up taking the 3 bolts from the pivots out. Then I also had to loosen up the allen head screw in the sleeves just inside the pivots which allow the pivots to be removed. loosened up the rod going to the front pivots where the springs by removing the bolt. removed the stop brace and they lifted out from the top. I have to replace the springs since 2 of them are broke but it ended up being fairly easy, of course I didnt come up with the idea, the guy doing the body work did. He seems to know alot about vettes.
Rodney


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Wow!  I will look forward to your description of getting it back together in that tight space.  Please let us know how it works.

Larry

I removed mine entirely based on the 5 mounting bolts - took all apart, painted, new pins, springs adjusters and bushings. Worth the effort!! Very smooth now...

larry, I hope to take some pics of the assembly removed. I havent figured out how to post them yet but i can send to you through email.
Rodney



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