I've been thinking about trying out another retro on some headlights for my car and starting researching heat guns for opening up the headlights. I would just use the oven, but that's a huge PITA for me. 30 min at 275 and the damn headlights are still nearly impossible to open up without bending/breaking plastic around the seal (and getting that damn sealant on the lenses). I'm wondering if anyone has one they can recommend (< $50, preferably) and a good temperature to soften the headlight's glue. I've browsed for a few and saw one that had a min temp of 500 degrees...

 

Anybody...?

 

A heat gun is not going to make it easier to open up your headlights. It is just a high temperature, localized heat source. You are much more likely to warp (due to uneven heating) or melt (gun too close or too slow) your headlight housing with a heatgun than in a uniform lower temperature oven.

I have opened up several sets of headlights in the oven without any issues. You should not have to pry anything. If heated sufficiently, they can be opened by hand (with gloves on).

The only thing (automotive) I use my heat gun for is heat shrink tubing and heating mass loaders (sound deadening) on cooler days.

If you are ging to buy one, make sure it has atleast a couple of fan /heat settings and comes with a number of application attachments.

 

I don't know what my issue is opening up headlights in my oven (gas, if it matters), then. I've never been able to open them without at least gently prying them apart at the seam. Which, of course, resulted in the plastic being bent and me getting the sealant over at least a noticeable section of the lens.

 

i use, and recommend, the weller 1095.

 

Weird. I don't see how it being a gas oven could make it any different, but who knows. I've never really had trouble separating OEM or aftermarket headlights in my oven (electric). And I usually do 10-15 min at 250. Granted, I do usually have to start the separation with a flathead screwdriver, but I've yet to damage a headlight or ruin a lens.