ddonzella

Ok,

Sorry for the dumb question but how the #$%^ are you supposed to change an outside tail light on an 86 coupe???

This looks rediculous!

Pete K

Here is my way. First I remove the license plate. Then I remove the back up light. Next I remove the volt that holds on bumper cover that is behind the back up light. Then I stick my arm behind the inner tail lamp and remove it w/ 10mm wrench. Next stick your arm in the hole and service the outer bulb. Plan on 45 minutes to an hour if it is your first time.

smack123

Yep - that should do it... Just did mine last week, though I didn't have to remove any bolts on the bumper cover (but I have a 91 with the newer style bumper)

jfb

The outside stop lamps are replaced by sticking your arm around the outside of the muffler (from underneath) and rotating the lamp socket CCW 90 degrees and pulling out. Remove the old lamp, install the new lamp and put the socket back into the hole and rotate CW 90 degrees. Use a trouble light so you can see what you are doing and wear goggles to protect your eyes from debris.

rick lambert

with jfb, have done it-hate it.

tacblu

jfb's instructions are good, but if you first install muffler eliminators you'll have a lot more room to work.

ddonzella

Thank you!!! Got to say though what kind of high paid GM moron designed ( or ignored) that end of the car???

ddonzella

Thank you PeteK!! That was the way to do it. 30 minutes. Can't get to it from the bottom. Even if you could you can't turn the bulb itself out of the socket! I had to use needle nose to remove it once I pulled it through the inside tail light housing.

ddonzella

Thank you PeteK!! That was the way to do it. 30 minutes. Can't get to it from the bottom. Even if you could you can't turn the bulb itself out of the socket! I had to use needle nose to remove it once I pulled it through the inside tail light housing opening.