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  1. #1

    Default 1983 Capri Tail lights

    Has anyone had to restore Capri taillights 83-86? Any advice or tips for someone who's looking to make his new again? I've seen various threads talking about polishing and sanding but they're restoring mustang taillights. I was looking to buy some cheap beat up ones on ebay to practice on with because mine aren't that faded but it looks like the clear portions are going a bit.
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  2. #2
    FEP Senior Member
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    I haven't restored Capri lenses, but they should be the same process as any other light. The fins will be a little harder to do.
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  3. #3

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    I have an 81 Capri that also has the raised fins. After my car was repainted the dull taillights stuck out like a sore thumb. While the car was being wet sanded and buffed I also did the taillights. The taillights themselves turned out great but the black fins were still faded so had to paint them in the end.
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  4. #4
    Moderator wraithracing's Avatar
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    The best option IMHO and experience is to wet sand the tail light lens with 400 grit sand paper. Then mask off the clear portion of the lens. Spray the fins and non clear portions with a base coat black or charcoal grey depending on year model. 79-84 black and 85/86 charcoal grey. Then unmask and top coat with clear.

    This will give you the best look and durability. If done correctly the lights will look brand new at a minimal investment of time and $$. Good luck!
    ​Trey

    "I Don't build it hoping for your approval! I built it because it meets mine!"

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    Current Mustangs:
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    1979 Pace Car now 5.0/5 speed
    1982 GT Stalled RestoModification
    1984 SVO Still Waiting Restoration
    1986 GT Under going Wide Body Conversion Currently

    Current Capris:
    1981 Capri Roller
    1981 Capri Black Magic Roller Basket Case
    1982 Capri RS 5.0/4spd T-top Full Restoration Stalled in TX
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    1983-84 Gloy Racing Trans Am/IMSA Body Parts

  5. #5

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    Thanks for the great advice fellas
    I'm going to give sanding and painting a shot.

  6. #6
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    Professional restorers do an acid dip first to remove any organic compounds.

    Never thought about putting a clear over them. This would likely be a one time restoration as it would probably difficult to remove the paint.
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  7. #7
    Moderator wraithracing's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by KevinK View Post
    Professional restorers do an acid dip first to remove any organic compounds.

    Never thought about putting a clear over them. This would likely be a one time restoration as it would probably difficult to remove the paint.
    No sure why you would need to remove the paint, but in my experience doing the BC paint with Urethane Clear coat over the entire lens holds up very well long term without issues. No different than any other part on the car sprayed with clear. I am sure after extreme sun exposure and/or 15-20 years of age there may be some deterioration, but still worth the time and $$ IMHO. This is how I do all of my Mustang and Capri tail lights and have had zero issues over the years. Most who see them, can't believe they aren't brand new.
    ​Trey

    "I Don't build it hoping for your approval! I built it because it meets mine!"

    "I've spent most of my money on Mustangs, racing, and women... the rest I just wasted."

    Mustangs Past: Too many to remember!
    Current Mustangs:
    1969 Mach 1
    1979 Pace Car now 5.0/5 speed
    1982 GT Stalled RestoModification
    1984 SVO Still Waiting Restoration
    1986 GT Under going Wide Body Conversion Currently

    Current Capris:
    1981 Capri Roller
    1981 Capri Black Magic Roller Basket Case
    1982 Capri RS 5.0/4spd T-top Full Restoration Stalled in TX
    1984 Capri RS T-top Roller
    1983-84 Gloy Racing Trans Am/IMSA Body Parts

  8. #8

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    Agree sand, base with color, clear. The will look brand new and last a long time. Even a rattle can job can look good just take your time.

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