all DIY headlight painters, need your input

Nick M

If you search threads, both here and on other forms, there are a variety of techniques on how to properly paint your headlight housings for the best results. I am planning to use gloss black paint, which is what OEM black housing headlights use, such as the '15 Nismo 370z.

The top 3 techniques I saw are:
Sanding the housing, then paint
Spraying primer or a flexible primer, then paint
Spraying a quality adhesion promoter designed for plastics, then paint

What technique did you use, in prepping your headlights?

Did it work well, or do you wish you used another technique? Or a combination?

Thanks in advance, some of you did some very nice work

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| 2015 Nismo headlights| 275/305 | Z1 spacers | Eibach Pro-kit |k&n typhoons | AAM S-Line catback + FI test pipes | Stillen splitter |

AdamRacer

I sanded all that shiney chrome off as best I could. I did it with a fine grit sandpaper to not leave any big scratches. I then used adhesion promoter directly on the housing and followed the directions on the can. I then put on multiple coats of my base color coat. Then finalized it with 2-3 coats of clear. Its been probably almost 2 years and I haven't noticed any issues. Just make sure everything is completely dry before sealing it back up.

bullitt5897

That is the same method I used.

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Shop Cars: 2013 318whp Nismo VspecII 370z *SOLD*, 2009 1000hp+ 93oct 4.0L TT 370z Fast Intentions STAGE 4 #054

rooftop

Step 1. Prepare ingredients
Step 2. Paint headlights
Step 3. Sit back, have a nice cold beer and admire your work

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Nut_N_Much

Once you open your lights don't touch the inside of the covers. Set them in none dusty area.

Use a fine grit sand paper make the chrome go away. Prime and paint. What ever paint you use ensure the primer is made for it. Don't mix paints.

If you mess up, spray with oven cleaner and wipe it all off and start again.

If you use a 3 stage paint (primer, base, clear) you would want to use a promoter. For the basic rattle can paints its not needed. (Do not use high temp resistant paint) it bubbles up, dont use engine enamel, caliper paint ect..

Krylon works fine, if you color match to your paint code, PM me and ill send you a good place to get your color code.

Hope this helps.

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Did new cool science stuff to the car !!!
http://www.the370z.com/mazoc/99606-z...y-14-17-a.html
http://www.the370z.com/diy-section-d...-w-videos.html