C1 Hardtop Window Tint
 

I did some searches but can't find the info I need. Last year there was a thread about window tinting the plexi-glass windows of a hardtop. I didn't own one then, so didn't pay much attention, but got the feeling it was a no-no. So, is there any safe tinting film or other that can be put on hardtop windows? If not, what is the problem this causes?

BH

Some things should not be changed from original.

Problem is tint is not stock. It takes away from 'the look', and the value of your top.

It all takes away from the value of my car, too, with its tinted windshield and tinted side windows. As does the glazed ham custom paint, the leather interior, the non stock wheels, the 5 speed, the narrowed 12 bolt, the disc brakes and the very large EFI SB motor. Or, maybe all that shit makes it more valuable than stock 250 HP NCRS car.

I do think the top would look more matched, with tint on the plex, if all the glass windows are tinted..

Doug

On one of the wheel visualizers I use, it shows a black 62 (like mine) with tinted windows on the hardtop. If I was going for that look (might) it looks very stealthy and unique. I don't care about changing from stock status and all the window tint film they use today peels off if you want to remove it. I was just concerned with damaging the plastic.

BH

I think it was Frankie who mentioned a clear High UV “tint” that he used on his SW. I’m always looking for him at the Venice Corvette show to check that out. If I remember correctly, he was pleased with the performance and aesthetics of it.

I doubt it would damage the plexiglass just by installing it. However, after time in the sun it will bake on. About the only way it will “peel off” is with a razor blade and that will undoubtedly damage the plexiglass.

My research shows it’s a no-no, the tint adhesive reacts with the plexiglass. I tried a tinted cling material but found I don’t have the application know how or the patience, but I think it’s possible. I did have a thread on it,

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...w-tinting.html

That is the thread I was looking for, thanks 59BlueSilver. I have a good relationship with a great tinting company here in town. I'll ask them if they are aware of this product and if they will try it. Price is secondary if the application if good and it does the job without damaging the plexiglass. One good thing about working on a removable hardtop, they can lay the hardtop on a table (well padded) and maybe that would make it easier to apply. If I was going for the 60's "gasser" look, no doubt about doing this tint....it just looks awesome.

BH

Let us know how you come out, I still want to do it.

The cars I see with tinted plexiglass at the vintage drags use lexan that is already made in that color. Probably expensive for the back window of the hardtop, but I've seen first gen Corvettes with red and green and yellow lexan in their hardtops over the years. It had to have come from somewhere.

Years ago (50 years), I remember spray on widow tint in a spray can.
Not sure you it would react with the plex, or if it is even still available, but it sounds like a possible solution.

Doug

As a point of color reference here is a picture of Corvette Central's green tint rear Plexiglas on a '59 hardtop.


https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.cor...340a3c8fbf.jpg

I like it. Smoke gray would be nice, also.
Doug

I like it a lot. It looks just like the GM Soft Ray green glass used on cars of the '50's and '60's. Very classy, IMO.

But I don’t see it in their catalog and Glassworks doesn’t offer it either.

Look closer Danielson....Part #: 431017...:cool:

https://www.corvettecentral.com/c1-5...17%26count%3d9

Oops, you’re right, missed that. As Doug said, smoke or a bluish tint would probably be more popular than green.

You'd have to really, REALLY want that CC solution to go through the hassle and expense - the little I used my hardtop would not justify it...

I agree. On the other hand, more may want the top on if more interior heat could be eliminated. That green is ugly though, IMO.