Recently, I posted a message concerning a dim headlight on my wagon. I took the advice given (which was actually quite good)which suggested to check of proper grounding and cleaning contacts.

Now for the steak dinner (brain buster)question. All indications showed nothing wrong with this headlight so I went a step further and removed the headlight from the vehicle and opened it up! Much to my surprise the painted surface (plastic reflective)was actually becoming a dusty nightmare. I took a piece of cotton with tap water and gently began to remove years of dust however, the paint from the housing also came off as well leaving a dull white plastic finish!

I know some brilliant person out there has the answer to this one!

Is it possible to repaint the inside cover with a Metalic finish paint to restore this assembly? I am deeply concerned when using spray paint because of the factor of heat which build up inside the headlight housing. I did ask a local auto parts place, the gentleman told me that I should only be concerned with the paint being flamable during the process of repainting the assembly. He further explained that the paint would only become flamable because of the propellents in the paint which are released after the surface is painted and it should no longer be a problem once painted! Hmmmm, Truth or Myth?

However, I checked the label on the paint can which warned against painting surfaces which exceed 200 degrees in temperature. I have no idea how hot the inside of a headlight assembly could get.

One final word, I live in Virginia where temperatures are well into the 90's during the summer and I'm not sure how much that would add to a headlight assembly as well. I have checked prices for a new assembly and it scares me to be just below 400 dollars. At present I am looking for a gently used assembly. Just in case the painting issue doesn't pan out.

Many thanks,
I know someone will have just the right answer! Thanks again!