Lights - Etching, Stress Cracking, or Discoloration

9220cadillac01

NO.: 92-I-34
DATE: April, 1992
GROUP: 10
CORP. NO.: 211512


SUBJECT:
EXTERIOR LAMPS CRACKING DUE TO EXPOSURE TO HARSH CHEMICAL CLEANERS


Some Cadillac exterior lamps may develop stress cracks when exposed to certain chemicals. Stress cracks will affect the outer lens of a lamp where the lens is welded to the lamp housing. The cracks can vary from a fraction of an inch to several inches in length and typically there are several cracks along the lens to housing weld. Other chemicals may produce a granular effect on the surface of the lens but will not result in an actual crack.

Stress cracks are formed when a chemical reacts with the outer lens and attempts to deform the lens. Because the lens is firmly affixed to the lamp housing the lens cannot deform and cracks to relieve the stress.

Chemicals that produce stress cracks may be found in certain glass cleaners and cleaning solvents used to prepare a vehicle for painting or for customer purchase.








Listed are the chemicals that may produce stress cracks and some of the cleaning products that contain the chemicals.


To eliminate the chance of cracking an exterior lens do not use any of the above chemicals or cleaners on or near an exterior lamp.

IMPORTANT:
If a chemical or cleaner is used on a vehicle, all lamp assemblies near the area to be cleaned should be removed and not reinstalled until all chemicals are completely cleansed from the area.

The best cleaning agent for all exterior lamps is a mild soap and water solution.