PROJECT: Refinishing 68-70 Fiberglass Taillight Assemblies
To see the complete article with step by step instructions - click the link below for pdf
68-70 Taillight Assembly Article.pdf (http://concoursmustang.com/speegle/Articles/Article_69Shelby_Taillights.pdf)
[/size]
TIME: Approx 1 hr for each task illustrated in the article
SUPPLIES:
See attached Article for specific suggestions
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Was recently faced with the task of refinishing a fiberglass taillight panel from a 69 Shelby. These are basically the same as 68 California Specials as well as 68 Shelby's.
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f49/firetrainer/Untitled-1333.jpg)
First task was reapplying the black edge to the taillight lens. In examining original example it appears that the edges were blackout. Guessing that some engineer worried that the light could exist out between the taillight frame and taillight panel so the surface received the coating to reduce the possibility.
(http://www.concoursmustang.com/forum/gallery/7/6-130717222612-7279498.jpeg)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Second, to refinish the back reflective surface of the taillight housings. These surfaces had become chalky and rough since new so my task was pretty straight forward.
Basically just sand the rear surface of the reflector section of the taillight panel, then apply a couple of nice smooth coats of Aervoe Chrome Galvanized spray paint. The pictures give a general idea of how well the paint reflects for a rattle can. Another option would be to over coat this paint with Kryon reflective spray paint in the can. Used that when restoring the back up lights (another post/Article)
(http://www.concoursmustang.com/forum/gallery/7/6-130717222615-7281985.jpeg)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
While reassembling the taillight panel I discovered that a number of thread inserts that originally were molded into the taillight panel (to screw the taillight frame screws into) were missing. Unfortunately I did not disassemble the car or I might have found this earlier.
When searching for some fix I found some brass thread inserts that are used in cabinet making. Pretty inexpensive and perfect for this job.
(http://www.concoursmustang.com/forum/gallery/7/6-130717222611-72781194.jpeg)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
All finished
Taillight panel all finished and ready to attach to the car when its ready
(http://www.concoursmustang.com/forum/gallery/7/6-130717222606-72741700.jpeg)
(http://www.concoursmustang.com/forum/gallery/7/6-130717222609-7276211.jpeg)
As in the other posts - view the attached article for more information and pictures.