[demas]

I finally started on the headlights - something I've been wanting to do since buying the car a couple years ago.

Was on the fence for best long-term route but finally settled on doing the sanding myself and go with the 3M clear coat wipes. Almost went with a Urethane spray sold locally but wasn't fully confident that I'd spray evenly, not get the stuff around my other cars and possibly breathe it in without a mask. Given this was my first time doing headlights, this would be a 'trial' run and if/when they go bad again, I can consider something else but want to see how long the 3M wipes last with regular care.


The original clear was gone at the top of the lights with a small amount remaining at center point but was cracking and faded. From a distance, they didn't look too bad but from the sides you can clearly see deterioration.

Started out with 600 grit dry (on the right side) then wet sanded from 800>1000>1500>2000>25000>3M Trizact 3000. On the left side, I started with wet sanding instead with the 600 and followed the same intervals up. I did the dry as I heard it was more effective to be able to determine when the sanding dust goes from yellow to white as opposed to wet sanding where you may not get all the yellow clear off. At any rate, my view is wet sanding is far better. I had no issue knowing when I hit pure polycarbonate material with either method. The right side light which I started dry had scratches even when I hit 2000 grit, so I ended up going at them again from 600 upwards.

I did all this by hand and really enjoyed the time over three days getting this done. I do see some very fine sanding marks with the lights turned on but hardly noticeable. I'll need to check them in more depth when the sun goes down.


As for the 3M wipes - nice product. Wiped on smooth, didn't streak and finished them off like glass. This was the most nerve racking point. Hate to admit it but I actually practiced how and from what point I'd wipe considering the contours and potential dangers like hitting the fender and causing an uneven stroke... The only thing when first using is you don't know how much pressure to use on the wipe - too little and you mis-coverage and too much and you risk runs. I ended up with a very small run at the very first point where I started - a shame but it's hardly noticeable. All in all, it wiped on better than expected.


Lot's of pictures below on progress and results but glad to finally get them to where they are. Waited for a long time to see the crystal clear champagne angel eyes..