LHD->RHD beam Golf MkV

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Mon 22 Nov 2004 15:03
LHD->RHD beam Golf MkV - charlesb
How are the headlights adjusted on the new MkV Golf.
I heard that the current Passat has a "switch" which switches between LHD and RHD focus on the back of the headlamp unit.

Is this the case with the Golf? there isn't any prism on the Glass at the front, and the mirrored piece surrounding the bulb looks like it should move, but I cannot see how.

Appreciate any advice
Thanks
Charles
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Mon 22 Nov 2004 19:38
LHD->RHD beam Golf MkV - bert-j
On the Passat there is only a 'switch' if the car is fitted with xenon gas discharge headlamps. I stand to be corrected but I'm almost certain that the same is true for the Golf. If you have 'normal' headlamps then you will have to mask off a part of the 'glass' (plastic, these days). You may be able to persuade your VW dealer to give you details of the area to be masked, otherwise a bit of trial and error against a white wall or garage door would work.
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Mon 22 Nov 2004 20:21
LHD->RHD beam Golf MkV - charlesb
Bert-j

Thanks. How do I tell if I have Xenon Gas Discharge? I just purchased a LHD Sportline from Belgium - don't ask why LHD, it's a long story - To register it, masking is apparently not enough according to DVLA.

thanks again
Charles
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Mon 22 Nov 2004 23:10
LHD->RHD beam Golf MkV - bert-j
In GB you would have paid an extra £600 for them! When you switch the lights on watch them against a wall etc. The beams will self level automatically by rising and then levelling down. Above all they will be extremely bright with a blue tinge. They are completely different from ordinary lights and very distinctive. Unless a VW dealer can come up with another option you may have to replace the units.
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Tue 23 Nov 2004 12:52
LHD->RHD beam Golf MkV - tdibob
The switch is present on Passat's with non-xenon headlights. It is necessary to remove the circular rubber cover from the main beam lamp, the switch is behind it.
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Tue 23 Nov 2004 22:21
LHD->RHD beam Golf MkV - charlesb
TdiBob,

I removed the circular cover but could not see very clearly. I'll need to get a decent flashlight at it. Surely VW would do this on all new models, as it would be more cost-effective.

Do you have a diagram or where it might be exactly. The grey switch like object directly behind the cover holds the bulb in the reflector

Thanks
Charles
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Tue 23 Nov 2004 22:37
LHD->RHD beam Golf MkV - pmh
For MoT testing purposes it is admissable to use beam deflectors or Black Tape! strange but true!

Quote from MoT Manual
Right hand dip headlamps can be temporarily altered for use in the UK by fitting masks or converter kits which remove the beam 'kick-up' to the right.

A headlamp altered in this way is not a reason for rejection, if

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)

b. the light output is not unduly
reduced - not usually a problem with commercially produced kits

c. the mask or converter is securely attached

But I dont know whether the same exemption would be applied to a personal import, registration as new, if CE marks are required.


pmh (was peter)
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