Restoring Foxbody Cheese Grater Tail Lights: A Diy Guide

Restoring Foxbody cheese grater tail lights is a popular project among Mustang enthusiasts looking to revive the classic 1979-1986 model’s distinctive rear-end appearance. Over time, these tail lights can become faded, cracked, or discolored due to UV exposure and weather damage, detracting from the car’s overall aesthetic. The restoration process typically involves sanding down the lenses to remove oxidation, using a plastic polish or compound to restore clarity, and applying a UV-resistant sealant to prevent future deterioration. For more severe damage, replacement lenses or professional refinishing services may be necessary. With the right tools and techniques, enthusiasts can bring these iconic tail lights back to their original, eye-catching condition, enhancing both the car’s value and its nostalgic appeal.

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Cleaning and Prepping the Tail Light Housings

The first step in restoring Foxbody cheese grater tail lights is a thorough cleaning of the housings. Over time, these iconic tail lights accumulate dirt, grime, and oxidation, dulling their once-vibrant red and amber hues. Begin by removing the tail light assemblies from the vehicle, taking care not to damage the fragile plastic or the wiring harness. Use a mild automotive soap and warm water to gently wash away surface contaminants. A soft-bristle brush or microfiber cloth is ideal for this task, as abrasive materials can scratch the plastic. Rinse thoroughly and allow the housings to air dry completely before proceeding.

Once clean, inspect the housings for signs of oxidation, a common issue with aged plastic. Oxidation appears as a cloudy, hazy film that reduces light transmission and detracts from the tail lights' appearance. To address this, apply a plastic polish or rubbing compound specifically designed for automotive use. Work the product into the plastic using a clean cloth or foam pad, applying firm, circular motions. This process may require multiple applications to fully restore clarity. For severe oxidation, a power drill with a polishing attachment can expedite the process, but exercise caution to avoid overheating the plastic.

After polishing, it’s crucial to prepare the housings for refinishing or sealing. Wipe down the surfaces with isopropyl alcohol to remove any residual oils or polishing compounds, ensuring a clean bond for subsequent treatments. If the housings have cracks or deep scratches, consider using a plastic weld or epoxy to repair them before proceeding. For added protection against future oxidation, apply a UV-resistant clear coat or plastic sealant. This step not only enhances durability but also revitalizes the tail lights' original luster, ensuring they stand out on your Foxbody Mustang.

A comparative analysis reveals that while cleaning and prepping tail light housings may seem straightforward, the devil is in the details. Skipping the alcohol wipe, for instance, can lead to poor adhesion of clear coats or paints. Similarly, neglecting to repair cracks compromises the structural integrity of the housings, potentially leading to moisture intrusion and electrical issues. By investing time in this preparatory phase, enthusiasts can achieve professional-grade results that honor the classic design of the cheese grater tail lights while ensuring longevity and functionality.

Sanding and Repairing Cracks or Damage

Before diving into the restoration of Foxbody cheese grater tail lights, it’s crucial to address the elephant in the room: cracks and damage. These imperfections not only detract from the aesthetic appeal but can also compromise functionality. Sanding and repairing these issues is a meticulous process that demands patience, precision, and the right tools. Ignoring this step could render your restoration efforts futile, as even the most vibrant paint or clear coat won’t hide structural flaws.

Analyzing the Damage

Begin by inspecting the tail lights under bright, natural light to identify all cracks, chips, or stress marks. Minor surface scratches may only require light sanding, while deeper cracks often necessitate a more involved repair process. For instance, hairline cracks can sometimes be filled with a clear, UV-resistant epoxy resin, but larger fissures may require cutting out the damaged section and replacing it with a compatible material. Always clean the area thoroughly before proceeding—dust or debris can interfere with adhesion and create further issues down the line.

The Sanding Process

Sanding is both an art and a science. Start with a coarse grit (around 400-600) to level the damaged area, gradually working your way up to finer grits (1000-2000) for a smooth finish. Wet sanding is highly recommended for this stage, as it minimizes heat buildup and reduces the risk of further cracking. Keep the surface lubricated with water or a sanding solution, and frequently check your progress by running your fingers over the area or holding it up to light. Over-sanding can thin the plastic, so proceed with caution and maintain a light, even touch.

Repairing Cracks

Once the area is sanded, focus on repairing the cracks. For small cracks, apply a thin layer of epoxy resin using a toothpick or fine brush, ensuring it penetrates the entire length. Larger cracks may require a plastic welding kit or a compatible plastic filler. After the repair material has cured, re-sand the area to blend it seamlessly with the surrounding surface. This step is critical—poorly repaired cracks will reappear under stress or temperature changes, undoing your hard work.

Practical Tips and Takeaways

Always wear protective gear, including gloves and a respirator, when sanding or working with chemicals. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to control dust and maintain a clean workspace. If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage or your ability to repair it, consider consulting a professional or sourcing a replacement panel. While sanding and repairing cracks is labor-intensive, it’s a necessary foundation for achieving a showroom-quality finish on your Foxbody cheese grater tail lights. Skimping on this step will only lead to disappointment, so invest the time and effort to get it right.

Applying Restoration Coatings or Sealants

Restoration coatings and sealants are the unsung heroes in reviving the clarity and luster of Foxbody cheese grater tail lights. These products act as a protective barrier, shielding the polycarbonate lens from UV damage, oxidation, and environmental contaminants that cause yellowing and haze. Unlike a simple polish, which only temporarily removes surface imperfections, coatings and sealants provide long-term durability, often lasting 1–3 years depending on the product and exposure conditions. Popular options include aerosol-based lens sealants like *Plastic-Seal* and liquid coatings such as *Headlight Coating* by Rust-Oleum, each offering unique benefits in terms of application ease and finish quality.

Applying these products requires precision and preparation. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the tail light surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove oils, dirt, and residual polishing compounds. Mask off surrounding areas with painter’s tape to prevent overspray. For aerosol sealants, hold the can 6–8 inches away and apply in thin, even coats, allowing 15–20 minutes of drying time between layers. Liquid coatings often require a foam applicator pad for smooth distribution, followed by a microfiber cloth to buff away excess. Both methods demand a dust-free environment to avoid particles adhering to the wet surface, which can ruin the finish.

The choice between a coating and a sealant often hinges on the desired outcome. Coatings typically provide a harder, more scratch-resistant surface, ideal for tail lights exposed to harsh conditions like road debris or extreme weather. Sealants, on the other hand, offer flexibility and ease of reapplication, making them suitable for maintenance-focused enthusiasts. For example, *Meguiar’s PlastX* paired with a sealant like *Griot’s Garage Ceramic Trim Coating* creates a polished, protected surface that resists future degradation. Always follow manufacturer instructions for curing times, as some products require 24–48 hours to fully harden.

One common mistake is overapplication, which can lead to a cloudy or uneven finish. To avoid this, apply thin layers and prioritize consistency over speed. If using a liquid product, work in small sections to maintain control. For aerosol sealants, practice on a scrap piece of plastic to get a feel for the spray pattern and drying speed. Additionally, consider the environmental conditions during application—high humidity or cold temperatures can affect curing and adhesion, so aim for a warm, dry workspace.

In conclusion, restoration coatings and sealants are not just a final step but a critical investment in preserving the clarity of Foxbody tail lights. By choosing the right product, preparing the surface meticulously, and applying with care, enthusiasts can achieve a showroom-quality finish that lasts. Whether tackling a weekend project or aiming for concours-level perfection, these products bridge the gap between restoration and long-term protection, ensuring the iconic "cheese grater" design remains a standout feature for years to come.

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Replacing or Upgrading Internal Components

The internal components of Foxbody cheese grater tail lights are often the first to degrade, with cracked lenses, faded housings, and corroded wiring being common issues. Replacing or upgrading these parts can significantly enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Start by disassembling the tail light assembly carefully, as the plastic components can become brittle over time. Use a heat gun or hairdryer to soften the adhesive holding the lens in place, then gently pry it open with a plastic trim tool to avoid damage.

Once the assembly is open, inspect the reflector bowl and light sockets for corrosion or discoloration. If the reflector bowl is dull or pitted, consider replacing it with an aftermarket option made from modern materials like chrome-plated ABS plastic, which offers better durability and reflectivity. For light sockets, ensure compatibility with the original bulb types (typically 1157 or 3157 bulbs) unless you plan to upgrade to LED bulbs, which require specific socket adapters. Clean all electrical contacts with isopropyl alcohol and a wire brush to ensure reliable connections.

Upgrading to LED bulbs is a popular choice for improved brightness and energy efficiency, but it requires careful consideration. LEDs operate at lower temperatures and draw less power, reducing strain on the wiring harness. However, their polarity must match the tail light’s wiring, so test each bulb before final installation. Additionally, install load resistors inline with the wiring to prevent hyperflashing or error codes, as LEDs consume less power than incandescent bulbs, which can confuse the vehicle’s electrical system.

When reassembling the tail light, apply a bead of silicone sealant around the lens edges to prevent moisture intrusion, a common cause of internal corrosion. Use stainless steel screws instead of the original zinc-plated ones to avoid rust. Finally, test the tail lights before sealing the assembly completely. This ensures all functions—brake, turn signal, and running lights—work correctly. With these upgrades, your Foxbody’s cheese grater tail lights will not only look restored but also perform better than their original counterparts.

Reassembling and Testing Tail Light Functionality

Once the tail light components are restored, reassembling them requires precision to ensure both aesthetics and functionality. Begin by aligning the lens with the housing, ensuring the tabs and grooves fit snugly. Apply a thin bead of silicone sealant around the edges to prevent moisture intrusion, a common issue in Foxbody tail lights. Secure the lens using the original screws, tightening them evenly to avoid cracking the plastic. Avoid over-tightening, as aged plastic can become brittle. If the original screws are rusted or damaged, replace them with stainless steel equivalents for longevity.

Testing the tail light functionality is a critical step to verify your restoration efforts. Start by reconnecting the wiring harness, ensuring each pin aligns correctly with the bulb sockets. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the harness and the bulbs, confirming the electrical path is intact. Insert the bulbs, ensuring they seat firmly without forcing them, as misalignment can cause intermittent operation. With the ignition on, test the running lights, brake lights, and turn signals individually. If a function fails, inspect the corresponding bulb, socket, or wiring for faults.

A common oversight during reassembly is neglecting to ground the tail light assembly properly. Poor grounding can result in dim or non-functional lights. Clean the grounding points on both the tail light housing and the vehicle body, using a wire brush to remove rust or corrosion. Apply dielectric grease to the contact points to enhance conductivity and prevent future corrosion. If issues persist, run a dedicated ground wire from the tail light to a clean chassis point, ensuring a stable connection.

Finally, perform a road test in low-light conditions to evaluate the tail lights under real-world conditions. Check for brightness, responsiveness, and visibility from various angles. Observe for flickering or uneven illumination, which may indicate loose connections or faulty bulbs. Adjust the aim of the tail lights if necessary, using a flathead screwdriver to tweak the housing’s alignment screws. Properly reassembled and tested, your Foxbody’s cheese grater tail lights will not only enhance the car’s appearance but also ensure safety and compliance with road regulations.

Frequently asked questions