How to replicate HELLA's smoked ellipsoid technique:

[ToplessE30]

This is funny. It seems like noone would do this without a write up. That template has been around for a very long time and was just now brought back up.

[Jordan]

There is a PDF file of the templates... just print it out.

[nefarious7907]

I was planning on sticking with my H4's and just adding an HID kit, but after seeing this I think I am going to have to give into Ellipsoids. Inspiring writeup Jordan.

I dont think it would be too complicated to make arch shaped templates but I am curious as to the spacing around the bulb.

[jahnaboi]

Damn Jordan. Thanks for the write up. Wanna make me some crosshairs? =)

[Jordan]

Yeah. Oven temps will vary. I can say my oven is like a 1982 model, and while it works fine, its likely not up to par with something more recently made.

[///M42 sport]

Ok i just wanted to add some input on the baking process. I put my metal assembly in and heated the oven to 350 and waited for 6-8 minutes. I found this softened the glue just enough so I could slowly wedge the glass off. A little smoke should appear from the headlights.

I think it would take less time for my low beam assembly since its plastic. I'll post when I get to them.

[ToplessE30]

I may be doing this very soon as well!

[Axxe]

Any experience with early euro lights? The non-ellipsoid ones? I'm thinking 4 crosshairs should do the job for that.

[VAPORBLADE]

I wonder what other colors would look like - maybe a dark charcoal, or half black, and half nothing, like frowning eyes. Probably would look like ass - but it would be cool to see.

[Jordan]

The SEM holds up fine to the heat, I use it on all sorts of engine parts too with no problems.

Get the adjusters from Patrick @ BMA.

[///M42 sport]

as far as you can tell jordan, has the SEM paint on the crosshairs held up to the heat?

Also does anyone know where to get new adjusting screws (besides the dealer)?

[Jordan]

I think it was 22ga steel. Thick enough to be sturdy, but no so much so that my tin snips wouldn't cut it.

[pwforprez]

WOW damn dude that looks very nice. very informative. what thickness did you use for your crosshairs?

[JeffNJM3]

Thanks Jordan, perfect winter project!

[Jordan]

The US housing does in fact use anti-tamper screws. You can loosen them with pliers and usually remove them the rest of the way by hand. They will thread back in with a normal flathead, or you can replace them with something else with a standard head from a hardware store.

Here is a photos of the lights that I made as I documented this writeup on the car: