512TR to 512M tail light conversion | FerrariChat

512TR to 512M tail light conversion

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by JIMBO, Nov 8, 2006.

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  1. JIMBO

    JIMBO Formula 3
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    Oct 31, 2003
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    Jim DeRespino
    #1 JIMBO, Nov 8, 2006
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    I promised last month to try and supply a step-by-step conversion from a 512TR to a 512M rear tail light set-up. Here goes. First I have to thank my good friend Wolfie who was able to obtain all the parts for me from his Ferrari Factory connection in Germany (don't ask) at a substantial discount. All US dealers told me the parts were "unobtainable". The good news: they were available. The bad news: they are not available anymore (allegedly the parts bins at the factory warehouse have been depleted).
    The end result is very sweet, as you shall see.

    For the faint of heart or those on medication I have to warn you that later on in this thread you will see graphic photos of cutting (with a Sawzall) and welding on an actual Ferrari. If you find such acts offensive on moral or religious grounds may I remind you that this is the Technical forum and suggest you seek refuge in Collectables or Showroom.

    Those attempting this conversion need be familiar with basic shop tools and have access to or be able to perform painting, welding and wiring harness fabrication.

    Step 1: Obtain all parts. As noted above, this may no longer be possible from the factory. There are 14 separate parts needed, and all must be obtained or it won't look "factory" when done. Here are the part numbers:

    157513
    157514
    157515
    157516
    64678000
    64677900
    64472000
    64618700
    64441800
    64678200
    64472000
    64686200 (2)
    64739800

    This is what they look like:
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  2. JIMBO

    JIMBO Formula 3
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    Can someone tell me how to get the photos in the middle of the text instead of at the end?
     
  3. sparta49

    sparta49 F1 Veteran
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    Mar 3, 2001
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    What was the total cost of the parts ? It looks like the tail lights will run $740
     
  4. JIMBO

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    #4 JIMBO, Nov 8, 2006
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    Total out of pocket was $2900 including shipping and customs from Germany, plus another $100 for terminals and pieces to fabricate the wiring harnesses from the vehicle to the 4 lights and $250 for prep and paint of the large panel.
    $3250 all together.

    Brian at T. Rutlands/Maranello Auto Parts was extremely helpful in locating the original Ferrari terminals and connectors at non-Ferrari prices.
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  5. lusso64

    lusso64 Formula 3

    Apr 12, 2004
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    Looks fantastic! Only thing I'd do different (Assuming I had a 512TR!) is NOT use the M badge. But even with it, it looks fantastic. Job well done....
     
  6. JIMBO

    JIMBO Formula 3
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    Well, the "M" stands for modified and it IS modified...
     
  7. lusso64

    lusso64 Formula 3

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    Can't argue with that!
     
  8. JIMBO

    JIMBO Formula 3
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    #8 JIMBO, Nov 8, 2006
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    Step 2 - Disassembly

    Begin by removing the 512TR rear grill. There are two phillips head bolts on either side and two 10mm nuts in the middle (the hood latch cover will have to be removed for access). Remove and set grill aside.
    [NOTE: all modifications will allow return to original condition with no problems]

    Remove 4 10mm nuts and washers from wire mesh. .

    Remove 6 8mm nuts and washers from each lamp housing (12 total). Disconnect wiring harnesses, remove housings and set aside.

    Remove wire mesh and set aside.

    Begin taping of all nearby painted surfaces for protection.
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  9. JIMBO

    JIMBO Formula 3
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    Oops:

    I forgot to mention removing the 4 phillips head screws per side holding on the lamp lenses. My bad.
     
  10. SPEEDMAN WITHOUT LICENCE

    SPEEDMAN WITHOUT LICENCE Formula Junior

    Jul 7, 2006
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    Stefaan Wauters
    Oh man,you're just in the beginning of this thread,and I already learned a lot...
    Thanks,
    Speedman
     
  11. 285ferrari

    285ferrari Two Time F1 World Champ
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    Sep 11, 2004
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    Great post so far---really awesome you took the time to take pics of the process for the guys here
     
  12. carnut360

    carnut360 Rookie

    Oct 13, 2011
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    steve b
    hi I have a 512 tr and a mate recommended that I have a look at this sit, but I cant seem to see any pictures although I did sign up?

    can anyone help pls..sorry I'm a bit of a dinosoar (not quite extinct!) when it comes to these things!..

    regards steve
     
  13. Auraraptor

    Auraraptor F1 World Champ
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    #13 Auraraptor, Dec 5, 2021
    Last edited: Dec 5, 2021
    I can’t help but feel some posts disappeared over the years.

    What welding or cutting was needed? I thought it was reversible between the two designs
     
  14. tbakowsky

    tbakowsky Two Time F1 World Champ
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    Sep 18, 2002
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    Personally.. I don't like the back end of the 512m..or the front for that matter.

    But to each thier own as always. Um not so sure it is a straight parts swap. Although I could be very wrong.

    I would suggest to look at the parts diagrams for a 512m vs a 512. Closely look at not only the obvious components, but look very hard at the surrounding parts, fenders, boot lid, bumpers etc. Compair part numbers etc. Good luck.
     
  15. JIMBO

    JIMBO Formula 3
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    Wow, it's been a while. I did have to cut out one support brace on each side (1x1" square steel bar) and re-weld it slightly angled so the 512M lights would fit. No one can tell now without measuring against a stock 512TR. As I recall, there were 17 or 18 separate parts that had to be obtained for the conversion to work, and I was lucky to get all parts through a supplier in Germany who had a "cousin" at the Ferrari parts department. I suspect many of the parts are unavailable today.
    I love the 512TR front and the 512M rear, so the swap made sense.
    Since the car IS modified, I have the swapped out the 512M ashtray, glovebox and decklid nameplate.
    It's fun to see people at car shows go from front to rear to front with a puzzled look on their face. I tell them it is a 1 of 1 prototype made to test the rear design on the American market. Half of them believe me.
     
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  16. Auraraptor

    Auraraptor F1 World Champ
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    Thanks! I was able to track down about 1/3 the parts… but unfortunately still over 2/3 long NLA
     
  17. windsock

    windsock Formula 3
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    Nov 29, 2006
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    We are looking to make a run of the bulb holders. We purchased some from another vender and they literally broke while installing them so we made our own and Image Unavailable, Please Login are ready to make a run using reinforced task 8 Urethane. We can also repair the tabs on originals but it is nearly the same cost as new. If you are interested PM me cost will be determined by number I can justify making. they will also come with new electrical sockets.
     
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