Headlamp Lenses are dull and grim !

Topic: Headlamp Lenses are dull and grim ! (Read 988 times) previous topic - next topic

Headlamp Lenses are dull and grim !

July 07, 2014, 01:21:00 PM

Question for you guys ...

Just got my 88 Bird painted last week and now since the paint job is astounding, it makes the headlamps look grim.

I have tried Meguires headlamp polish and it helped a little bit on the lens but they are so faded.

I wish they were glass but it's the plastic.

How can I get them brighter and more clear ?

Someone mentioned sanding, what grit ?

Any idea are appreciated.

thanks Marty

Headlamp Lenses are dull and grim !

Reply #1 – July 07, 2014, 01:55:46 PM

I personally prefer the 3M headlight restoration kit which includes the necessary sanding and buffing pads and an applicator wheel. However, you will need a drill to run it. I also recommend removing the lenses completely if you are going to do it that way so as to minimize any collateral damage to your new paint job, and it will also allow you to attempt to re-chrome the housings while you are at it. I would also recommend that you clear coat your lenses after working on them, no matter what route you take, so that you are able to preserve all that hard work or they WILL fade out again very quickly.

Headlamp Lenses are dull and grim !

Reply #2 – July 07, 2014, 01:59:56 PM

Depending on how bad they are tell you how low on the grit you should go

For some really bad lights, here's my recipe:
600, 1000, 1500, 2000 grit sandpaper sanding one way only for each grit and alternating when you go finer, then any headlight/polishing compound should clear up the lights
After that you need to apply something to protect the lights from UV rays and oxidation or else they will yellow within months and look worst then before
A lot of people use a wax everytime they wash the car or a clear coat
I personally use optilens, it's made specifically for headlights and is some of the best stuff on the market, expensive but well worth it when these headlights cost a pretty penny

Here's a before n after pic

Headlamp Lenses are dull and grim !

Reply #3 – July 08, 2014, 08:51:52 AM

Thanks for that advice - good info to know

I will post pics of my restored 88 sometime next week - 14 years in the making and she's almost 100% complete

stay tuned