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another headlight restoration thread

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Old Jun 28, 2019 | 03:06 PM
  #1  
mrfeh's Avatar
mrfeh
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Default another headlight restoration thread

Did mine this morning using the 3M kit (the kit that does not use power tools). Very happy with the results. A few comments:
  • mine had slight hazing/yellowing, but were in decent shape to start with
  • if you don't have the headlight removal tool, use a 5mm socket
  • if you are going to remove the washer cover, use air pressure after removing the headlights instead of prying them up (I broke one of mine prying; $60 mistake)
  • you can use a manual bike tire pump and a straw (of the right diameter) to get the washer extended, then unclip the cover from the sprayer
  • I spent maybe 2-2.5 hours on mine; would take less time now that I've done it once
  • they aren't perfect, but look much better than before; if you want perfection, I think the clear coat would need to be sprayed instead of wiped on as is done w/ this 3M kit

Before:





During (after sanding but before clear coat):






After:





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Old Jun 29, 2019 | 10:53 AM
  #2  
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They look awesome! Must feel good to have them clear again.
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Old Jun 29, 2019 | 12:54 PM
  #3  
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I should've taken a picture of the puddle that was left after the wet sanding - it's easy to see where that layer of UV damaged plastic ends up.
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Old Jun 29, 2019 | 01:48 PM
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It look very good!
Let us know if the finish hold-on after a couple months.
I was looking at this kit but decided to go with 2K clear.
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Old Jun 29, 2019 | 02:38 PM
  #5  
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Looks good, these small touches add up to help a car from looking old.
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Old Jun 30, 2019 | 03:46 AM
  #6  
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Well done! Looks great.
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Old Jun 30, 2019 | 08:37 AM
  #7  
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Botsy67
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Great job, huge improvement, actually your headlights looks like new again now, very nice... Cheers,
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Old Jun 30, 2019 | 12:08 PM
  #8  
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you can also put xpel film on headlight to protect from UV as well. this what i have done....no yellowing.
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Old Jun 30, 2019 | 12:51 PM
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Good job....
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