Mikeyyy

Okay, I have search this forum many times, yet to seek my answer. How do I "open" my reflector? I've getting a flathead screw and peircing it between the pieces, still wont move. Anyone else got any suggestions?

Dallasmavs92

iTrader: (1)

Save yourself hassle and just remove.the bumper.

Mikeyyy

^ Uhmmmm okay lol....

Anyhoo this is what I am trying to pop open

[IMG] Uploaded with ImageShack.us[/IMG]

[IMG] Uploaded with ImageShack.us[/IMG]

All I want to do is install some LED's inside them!!

BOATS N HOES

iTrader: (2)

i believe you gotta bake it

there is a step by step in the DIY section about tinting them where the OP opens the reflector

look there

Mikeyyy

May you kindly send me the link? I am new to this forum and dunno where the DIY section is. Thanks!

beezee

iTrader: (19)

In all the ones I found, they did not open it apart as you want to do. Like this
https://my350z.com/forum/body-interi...eflectors.html
Can you post what it is that you are trying to do. There may be a better way

dcains

iTrader: (15)

I've opened up a few sets, to install LEDs. I used a small flat-bladed jeweler's screwdriver to repeatedly score all around the seam until it began to separate. At that point you should be able to carefully crack the reflector open without breaking any pieces. I resealed the pieces with clear silicone.

realist alive

^ looks good

Mikeyyy

@beezee
I've seen that before, but he didn't really open the reflectors.

@dcains
I just used a flat-head screwdriver, but it still won't open! You should try to make a video just how to open the reflectors haha! I guess I must put more elbow grease to make it pop open.

dcains

iTrader: (15)

You do have to put some effort into it. Score the seam with the edge of the screwdriver, repeatedly, until it's grooved and almost all the way through. The screwdriver works better than a blade, IMO, because it takes off more plastic, but you need to go around all four edges of the reflector before trying to break it open. The lens is thin and will crack easily. I've seen postings which say to bake the reflectors in a an oven to soften the glue along the seam, but I don't think this is the sort of glue that method will work with (unlike the headlight housings). Could be wrong, but careful work with a small (3mm), sharp jeweler's screwdriver is what worked for me.

EmpireDude

iTrader: (3)

This method has worked really well with me. Done it a good 10 times now! Cracked my first set (my OEM amber reflectors), but have had great luck with every set since I started baking them.






It's a real slick upgrade though, really changes the appearance of our cars! Good luck getting yours together OP.

dcains

iTrader: (15)

Happy to be proven wrong. Baking seems like a lot less effort.

EmpireDude

iTrader: (3)

OP, I will also tell you that I have found (as well as other members have commented on it) that the OEM ambers seem to be much harder to break open, especially without literally breaking them, than the clears. Definitely could be part of your problem!

It just gives it a cleaner break for whatever reason. I'm sure you've experiences the small hairline crack that can develop with just using the tiny screwdriver. I hit them with the heat, then go around with the screwdriver. I would also say it may help the tolerances between the parts expand. It just seems to help to leave em in the oven for around 5 minutes on 250, for whatever reason!

Waiz

iTrader: (57)

I don't get this trend at all, my 06+ headlights are more than bright enough and do an excellent job of illuminating the road

Mikeyyy

Sorry for asking lots of questions, but how long do you leave the reflectors in the oven without them melting off. And what is the temperature you set it on?

EDIT:
Nevermind, someone just answered. Ignore this

beezee

iTrader: (19)

I think it is more of trying to find something to do

Mikeyyy

Okay.... Sooooooo I put the temp on 250, set it at 4:00. I took it out, the whole thing melted... I aint much of a DIY type of person I guess lol

Waiz

iTrader: (57)

There is already a DIY for this mod.

OP I would search/ask your questions there:

https://my350z.com/forum/body-interi...eflectors.html