Third Brake Light

[hoss4659]

My '88 Carrera is equipped with a large-ish rectangular third brake light mounted at the top center of the rear glass. Probably quite visible to following cars. Unfortunately it blocks the view of any following vehicles as seen in the inside rear view mirror. Lots of possible replacement thin line lights on the market. It looks like the light is glued to the inside surface of the glass. Yes??? If so, what would be the most likely solvent to release the adhesive? Acetone? MEK? Would this solvent likely also release the defrost element wires from the glass? Any suggestions on how to tackle the removal? How to re-glue the heater wires if they come loose?

I am thinking the most logical step is to take the glass out so the work can be performed on the bench. Another thought is to work a swap with one of the Porsche salvage outfits such as Parts Heaven or EASY for a rear glass w/o the light. Any recommendations on who would be a likely willing participant? TIA

[86 911 Targa]

Originally Posted by 86 911 Targa

The light assy is appended to the holder by two small screw on each side of the light.

Some of our members have substituted the existing assy with a thin line LED setup.

There is a conductive paint which I have used to repair open defogger elements.

Good luck,

Gerry

[ganun]

I had the rear glass out to replace the weatherstrip, a major pita to get it right with so many wires running in the seal, but if your car has a wing, it has the top mount, without the wing its bottom mount.
I do like the idea of running a strip of LEDs along the whole/or most of the top of the rear glass, the top mount has great visibility being such a low car.
Have you removed the plastic cover?

[Arne2]

Unfortunately, I think you will find that your rear glass has a heavy black outline in it to hide the light's adhesive. So even if you remove it, you will still have a very visible remnant of the light.

I believe the best option for your top-mount light removal will be a replacement rear window, unfortunately.

[hoss4659]

Thanks for the info, Arne.

[Porsche 2]

You could lower your mirror?