Loosening light bulbs

[RDM]

My front passenger-side marker light / blinker stopped working last week. I figured it'd be a simple bulb replacement, but upon taking the lens off I learned otherwise.



The bulb is well fused to the reflector / pot metal piece. Is there a recommended way of removing these, or is it just use a hammer and if it breaks it needed to be replaced anyway? (yes, that was a joke).

I considered unplugging the wires on the back, but there's precious little hand space for my fat fingers once re-connection time comes.

How to get this apart? And how to prevent this in the future?

Many thanks.

[Michael T]

I have used a paper towel wrapped around it tightly. Once I had the glass separate from the metal base and used needle nose pliers inserted in the inside off the base and pushed out the handles while turning counterclockwise.

[911kevin]

Electrical spray lubricant might help the situation.

[RDM]

Originally Posted by Michael T

I have used a paper towel wrapped around it tightly. Once I had the glass separate from the metal base and used needle nose pliers inserted in the inside off the base and pushed out the handles while turning counterclockwise.

Michael,

I'' give that a try. I envisioned something about removing the glass so that I could get to the base with more force.

Originally Posted by 911kevin

Electrical spray lubricant might help the situation.

Kevin,

I've never heard of the stuff. Do you have a recommended brand?

Is this preventative, or helpful in getting the current bulb out?

[911kevin]

CRC makes a number of electrical cleaners and lubricants. Radio shack, Home Depot, or any auto store will carry some form or another of a contact lubricant. They can work well to liberate locked components.

[porsche930dude]

i do what Michael T suggested. Twist off the glass and mangle out the metal part with needle nose. they crush up pretty easy. then clean up the socket with a little wire brush