Removing difficult light trim

John-wa

The recessed lighting trim used in my home has 3 clips that contact the inner surface of the can (see photo). The only way I've found to reliably remove the trim is to destroy it. But, because it is a gimbal or eyeball trim, the bulb can't be changed without removing them! I have about 30 of these so I am getting a little frustrated.

Before I do a wholesale removal (by destruction) & replacement of the trims, are there any good ideas for saving these -- and changing the light bulbs?

thanks,
John

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Speedy Petey

Grip the inside of the trim with your finger tips of both hands. Firmly and slowly twist/spin the whole trim while also pulling down.
It will come out without getting destroyed.

McSteve

Will the bulb physically fit through the opening in the existing trim? If it's just a question of not being able to grab the bulb to turn it, try using some kind of suction cup.

As far as removing the trim goes, it probably just takes a steady downward pull and some twisting, but I can see how those clips could be pretty stubborn.

Guess I posted at the same time as Speedy. So yeah, what he said ^^^