RHD Headlights

[Betweenthewheels]

Hi folks - I am looking to import my LHD Series 2, 1998 XM to the UK and am searching for a pair of these.
Anybody with one or both to sell/exchange?

Many thanks,

Ultan

[White Exec]

Unfortunately, genuine later LHD XM headlights can't be converted to RHD (no fresnel lenses; the beam patterning is in the glass), but someone here should be able to help with RHD units (which will have the internal fresnels). Plenty about.
Member EathanR has been breaking a 2.5, so he may be able to help.

[Degens]

What are RHD headlights? I have a spare headlight for an XM, but need to check if it is for series 1 or 2. If you want to pursue this further with me, please send me a message.
Hans

[White Exec]

Dipped beams for LHD cars (dip to the right) were modified to omit the original internal fresnel lens, and transfer the beam direction/profile patterning to the front glass. This improved light output.

For RHD cars (dip to the left), this didn't happen, and the dipped beam units retained the plastic fresnels. If the plastic lens doesn't discolour (later ones were better) light output is good enough (with one of the better H1 bulbs), and the arrangement has the advantage that the RHD light units can be easily converted to LHD by simply flipping the lenses (swap between L and R units).

With the later LHD light units, the beam direction/shape is cast into the glass, so conversion to RHD isn't properly possible.

[Degens]

Ah, it is related to that. Then I have perhaps some good news and that is that I am Dutch and when we came in 2004 to the UK we imported our 1992 Dutch XM (unfortunately lost in 2012 due to an accident in aqua-planning; no injuries, but total loss) and we never changed the headlights and never had problems with the MOT. Maybe they can just stay as they are?

[White Exec]

Could be. XM dip beams cast a very flat-topped light pattern, with only a limited "kick-up" at the kerb side. Likely ok for most test purposes, unless the tester troubles to check the markings on the front glass.

Over here in Spain, we have a RHD XM, with RHD headlights, but the fresnels flipped to the LHD positions. No issue with annual testing, and no dazzle for oncoming traffic. Light spread is much more even than the LHD units we originally fitted on arrival.

[xmexclusive]

I can find a spare set of UK Mk 2 lights if you get no other offers.

John

[Betweenthewheels]

Thanks for that folks. All good news. John, I'm interested in those lights - are they in good nick?