R129 Xenons LHD=>RHD conversion

[mobeme]

Hi

I'm trying to get the Xenon lights on my imported LHD 2001 SL (R129) changed to RHD mode to make them UK MOT'able.

I heard there was a lever on the back of the light unit for the swap but don't know any more details. Can anyone advise on how to do this?

Also do the high-beams have to be changed and if so how?

Many thanks in advance. G.

 

[Shude]

The lever will knock the top off the beam pattern but will not make a LHD headlamp a RHD MOT pass.

I don't know why they don't make headlamps easily convertable though, with the tech they have these days it could be a software option or a menu-item on the instrument cluster!

 

[Satch]

I know somebody with a LHD C class with Xenons. Quoted a fierce cost for a RHD light conversion.

However, has an MoT with just the beam adjusters in play: key bit is under "Masks or Converter kits":

"a. the headlamp aim is not rejected for the reasons listed under diagram 1 (except that the top of the beam image will be a straight line)"

http://www.motuk.co.uk/manual_160.htm

However, is a bit of a cloudy area and differing views can be taken by testers.

If you go to (some) MB dealers they will show you how to adjust. The levers are not always that obvious and, in my case, they snapped one of them off in the process.

 

[mobeme]

Many thanks guys.

I checked the owner's instruction manual and p.299 (German edition) confirms there are levers on the Xenons (and indeed not on the Halogens). Adjustment of these produces a symetrical beam i.e. negates the 'kick-up'.

Overall effect is I guess a bit less than full-on RHD conversions but no problem and should be fine for an MOT. The front fogs BTW are non symmetrical and in theory should probably have stickers applied.

BTW, I called MB in Chelsea, they said they didn't think R129 Xenons had levers but would check if I drove in. I called MB in Hampstead and after much waiting, was told that this model definately did NOT have the switch and new units would be £785 inc VAT each thank you very much!

I guess that just leaves the rear fog which is single and on LHS and not RHS....

Thanks again G.

 

[Shude]

BTW, I called MB in Chelsea, they said they didn't think R129 Xenons had levers but would check if I drove in. I called MB in Hampstead and after much waiting, was told that this model definately did NOT have the switch and new units would be £785 inc VAT each thank you very much!

Bosch may make an upgrade kit that you could take apart for spares, I bought a kit for my W202 which was under £600 for everything including ballasts and bulbs (even corner indicators!).

I guess that just leaves the rear fog which is single and on LHS and not RHS...

This is likely just a matter of running a cable from one side to the other, the lamp units are the same but there is one less wire on one side...