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Old May 14, 2012 | 01:48 PM
  #1  
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Default Front Bumper Reflector

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?
Old May 14, 2012 | 02:35 PM
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Save yourself hassle and just remove.the bumper.
Old May 14, 2012 | 02:51 PM
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^ 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!!
Old May 14, 2012 | 03:00 PM
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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
Old May 14, 2012 | 03:04 PM
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May you kindly send me the link? I am new to this forum and dunno where the DIY section is. Thanks!
Old May 14, 2012 | 07:09 PM
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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
Old May 14, 2012 | 07:32 PM
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Originally Posted by Mikeyyy
May you kindly send me the link? I am new to this forum and dunno where the DIY section is. Thanks!
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.



Old May 14, 2012 | 08:54 PM
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^ looks good
Old May 15, 2012 | 10:40 AM
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@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.
Old May 15, 2012 | 10:48 AM
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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.
Old May 15, 2012 | 11:10 AM
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Originally Posted by dcains
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.
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.
Old May 15, 2012 | 11:13 AM
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Happy to be proven wrong. Baking seems like a lot less effort.
Old May 15, 2012 | 11:13 AM
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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!

Originally Posted by dcains
Happy to be proven wrong. Baking seems like a lot less effort.
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!

Last edited by EmpireDude; May 15, 2012 at 11:15 AM.
Old May 15, 2012 | 11:45 AM
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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
Old May 15, 2012 | 11:59 AM
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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

Last edited by Mikeyyy; May 15, 2012 at 12:00 PM.
Old May 15, 2012 | 12:35 PM
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Originally Posted by Waizzz
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
I think it is more of trying to find something to do
Old May 15, 2012 | 01:09 PM
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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
Old May 15, 2012 | 08:20 PM
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There is already a DIY for this mod.

OP I would search/ask your questions there:

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