Today, I decided to tackle the first "repair / DIY" the New to me X5. The headlights were in a sad, sad state. I decided to restore them through the process of sanding, polishing and waxing.
Here is what I had to work with at the start:
Passenger Side Light Assembly
Driver's Side Light Assembly (After I removed it)
When I do this, I prefer to remove the headlights assemblies from the car so I can work on them more diligently.
I remove lights to do a more diligent job on the restoration:
These DS2 Covers are a lil bit of a PITA to remove. Easier to install.
I started by washing the headlights with soap and water to get as much grime off as possible.
I then proceeded to wet sanding. I started out with 400 grit Paper for a short spell and then went to work on the light covers with 500 grit. I sanded for about 20 minutes plus with the 500 grit to get them nicely hazy and get all the crap off the lights.
I then switched to 800 Grit paper. I then went back to 500 grit with an electric drill and rotary paper attachment to ensure I did not miss any spots. I then wet sanded again by hand with 500 and 800 to remove any swirls marks that might be caused by the drill attachments.
I then proceeded to 1200 Grit Fine Glaze paper to create a smooth surface and fine haze on the covers. This was then following by P3000 head from the 3M kit to start the polishing process. I spend approximately 10 - 15 minutes per grit.
After the sanding and polishing, I then apply the 3M finishing polish with the foam applicator. I do a damp polish and then come back a little later and do a dry polish with the wax.
1/2 Way through the project, I do quick comparison between restored Passenger Light Assembly and untouched driver's side.
Here are the final results:
Both Light Assemblies re-installed in the car.
Sorry for the crappy picture quality, I only had my ole iPhone with me at the time.
Here are the lights in before and after comparisons:
PASSENGER SIDE:
Before
After
DRIVER'S SIDE:
Before
After
After all this was done, I tried to replace the steering with an M5 ///M Wheel. Oh boy, oh Boy!
I got stumped trying to find the car's battery. I finally and gave up on that project. Are you kidding ?!?!?
LOL! I couldn't believe what it takes to get to the battery - even just to disconnect it.
Well.... more to come in the future
