would i be able to use the old style headlight motors with the smaller top in my 86GT? i have a couple sets of the old motors and it would be alot cheaper to rebuild them

As long as they are the gen 1 with the brushes side cover should work.

[This message has been edited by Dodgerunner (edited 09-01-2009).]

Your 86 should have the "old" style" motors. These have the large top (rotating knob) not the smaller. 87 & 88 used the small knob. You cannot just switch motors. You must switch the entire lighting wiring harness, wiring and headlight module

By smaller top do you mean that the knob is smooth or that the knob is physically smaller in diameter but has ribs for grip? The first Gen 1's had a smooth knob, the 2nd gen 1's had the same size knob but has ribs for grip and the 87-88 gen 2 motors had a conical shaped smaller diameter knob with ribs for grip.

87-88 Motor

86 Motor


Edit to fix spellng - Too many after dinner drinks

[This message has been edited by katatak (edited 09-01-2009).]

yea i had it backwards. i wasn't sure if the whole setup was different or just the motor was redesigned. i found the rebuild kit on ebay that will work for mine but its going to cost about 40 before shipping. the smaller topped motor can be rebuilt for alot cheaper right?

I'm in the process of rebuilding my drivers side motor (86) and looking at it, the bumpers are completely gone (its full of mashed up green plastic) but the gear is OK (got a new one to go on anyway) the brushes have come off the contacts (look to be in good condition, what's the best way to reattach them? conductive glue??) but the diode (if thats what it is?) is blackened inside the glass - I think this might be the problem as the motor stopped working, but it does absolutely nothing - doesn't try to turn or anything. Any idea if this is likely to be the problem and what it should be replaced with??