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Tinting Tail lights

Discussion in '2nd Gen. Tacomas (2005-2015)' started by xxcjtxx, May 7, 2010.

  1. May 7, 2010 at 2:14 PM
    #1
    xxcjtxx

    xxcjtxx [OP] Member

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    I have read a couple write ups but i still have some questions.

    Some people say sand/wet sand them then use rubbing compounds and polish and all this stuff and others say just clean them real well and spray a couple coats of nightshade on them.

    Oh and what about paint adhesive? will that work as a substitute for sanding?

    Which is better?

    Also, what is the best way to get that 3rd light done? just tape newspaper around it?

    Making up my list right now about to go to NAPA

    Got VHT nightshade (1 can?)
    Krylon gloss clear coat
    headlight restore kit?
    then if sanding turns out to be the best way ill add
    green scotch pad
    rubbing compound
    plastx

    Thanks
     
  2. May 7, 2010 at 2:17 PM
    #2
    Zombie Runner

    Zombie Runner Are these black helicopters for me?

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    oil change...
    add 2000 grit sand paper to that list. you want to scuff up the lights before you paint to get the paint to fully bond with the plastic.

    After your spray your clear you will want to wet sand again with 2000, then use the platix to buff out the dull'ness.

    for the 3rd brake light you can take it off, its just a little cover on there. same steps for this as well

    I just did mine but in reverse order, removing old tint from my tails

    here is the complete step by step write up

    http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/lighting/84694-how-tinting-tail-lights-right-way-pics.html
     
  3. May 7, 2010 at 3:02 PM
    #3
    xxcjtxx

    xxcjtxx [OP] Member

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    alright i will get 2000 grit sandpaper instead of the scotch green pad

    3 coats of shade and 1 of clear coat is perfect right? or more coats for darker?

    and do i need the rubbing compound? what does that even do
     
  4. May 7, 2010 at 3:03 PM
    #4
    Rucas

    Rucas 1st gen

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    3 coats is a little dark... and more clear coats
     
  5. May 7, 2010 at 3:06 PM
    #5
    DeeKay21

    DeeKay21 Lieutenant Dan.

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  6. May 7, 2010 at 3:09 PM
    #6
    xxcjtxx

    xxcjtxx [OP] Member

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    awesome thanks
     
  7. May 7, 2010 at 3:11 PM
    #7
    DeeKay21

    DeeKay21 Lieutenant Dan.

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    No problem!! If you use that method let me know how it turns out. I will probably tint my sets next week sometime. I have everything except for some 800 grit sandpaper.:cool: Watch how many coats you put on of that nightshade stuff too. I know someone that did 2 coats and it came out pretty dark.:eek: I might just do 1 coat and call it good.:rolleyes:
     
  8. May 7, 2010 at 3:19 PM
    #8
    xxcjtxx

    xxcjtxx [OP] Member

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    yea ill take b4 and afters

    no idea how long it'll take.

    drying times the worst...
     
  9. May 7, 2010 at 3:22 PM
    #9
    DeeKay21

    DeeKay21 Lieutenant Dan.

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    Yeah I think they said around 4 hours or so.:rolleyes: So it will take a bit of time I presume. I am going to tint my 06's first one day then do the 2010's some other day.:cool:
     
  10. May 7, 2010 at 3:23 PM
    #10
    gjbonner

    gjbonner Well-Known Member

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    Niteshades, clean em off with alcohol and then spray 3 to 4 coats then add a couple clear coats and be done with it. I did this and have had zero problems with my lights. you dont need to sand.

    Edit: Oh and dont forget the 3rd brakelight:) i noticed it one day walking up to my pickup, it stuck out pretty good.
     
  11. May 7, 2010 at 3:24 PM
    #11
    xxcjtxx

    xxcjtxx [OP] Member

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    you were actually the guy i was talking about when i said some people say no sanding hahah
     
  12. May 7, 2010 at 3:25 PM
    #12
    DeeKay21

    DeeKay21 Lieutenant Dan.

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    How long have you had them tinted for? From the looks of your pics, they dont seem to be to shiny.:cool: But thats good on your truck though cause it matches the color of the truck.
     
  13. May 7, 2010 at 3:36 PM
    #13
    gjbonner

    gjbonner Well-Known Member

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    yeah that Nightshades doesnt come out very glossy anyways. but the more clear coat the more glossy it'll be. I never wash the thing so that could be most of the problem:) it gets it about every 6 months or if i'm taking it somewhere special...:eek:Awwwwwww:eek:

    Edit: I'll have to look at my build to see how long...i cant remember. I know one day a guy followed me home to find out how i did them and i gave him the rest of my can and the instructions:)

    Edit: well hell it looks like it has been a full year this month!
     
  14. May 7, 2010 at 3:54 PM
    #14
    xxcjtxx

    xxcjtxx [OP] Member

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    I dont want anyone following me home haha
     

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