Hydro dipping headlight reflectors?

H

holdover

Well-known member
I have seen some wonderful wood grain and other patterns created by hydro dipping. Has anyone used this process to put a chrome shine to old reflectors. Seems like this should be an economical and easy project. It is also something that would have a functional application and not affect the originality of an A, being hidden within the headlight.

just a thought
 
Of all the samples and videos I've seen, I've never seen a chrome film used. It could be that it is actually out there and I've just never came upon it. But it sounds like it would work. Or even maybe a chrome wrap if that's available too.
 
I do a little hobby hydro dipping. It has to be done over new paint. Have not seen a chrome film but that doesn't mean it's not out there. I also do some gold leaf. Would be easier to apply aluminum or silver leaf on a headlight reflector.
 
I think I'll have my reflectors done in wood grain.
I always wanted a pair of Woodlite headlamps.
 
I think you'll find hydro-dipping is EXPENSIVE. Cheaper way out would be to buy NEW reflectors that are shaped CORRECTLY. JMO
Paul in CT
 
"I think you'll find hydro-dipping is EXPENSIVE. Cheaper way out would be to buy NEW reflectors that are shaped CORRECTLY. JMO" Just checked Snyders cost is from $30-46 for repros, I priced out the film and the chemical activator ( I have clear by the gallons) and it would cost about 40.00 shipped to do a few of them, and using originals they would be correct shape. looking into which film would give the best results. There is chrome, silver and alum. Three of my four As could use a re-plate, so that would make it cost effective in a big way, if it works. Considering giving it a try, but I think I'll pass on wood grain reflectors.
 
holdover said:
"I think you'll find hydro-dipping is EXPENSIVE. Cheaper way out would be to buy NEW reflectors that are shaped CORRECTLY. JMO" Just checked Snyders cost is from $30-46 for repros, I priced out the film and the chemical activator ( I have clear by the gallons) and it would cost about 40.00 shipped to do a few of them, and using originals they would be correct shape. looking into which film would give the best results. There is chrome, silver and alum. Three of my four As could use a re-plate, so that would make it cost effective in a big way, if it works. Considering giving it a try, but I think I'll pass on wood grain reflectors.
Click to expand...

And if it dies not work, a big waste. Buy the new ones instead of doing a Mickey Mouse job. Wayne
 
Y'know, a set of woodgrain headlight buckets might look pretty good. Certainly a conversation piece! "Fine Point Judging not included."
 
I would get the reproductions from Bratton's. Search the archives and you will see that their new reflectors are the correct shape and the plating they use is better than silver in the long run. This is not a place to cut corners. I don't think you would be happy with hydro-dipping in the long run if you intend to use the lights to see with (if you want to park the car in a museum then maybe).

Charlie Stephens
 
Adding to your point, the awesome Bratton's reflectors are $90. That is so cheap that I can't imagine anyone could think there's a better solution. The guys at Bratton's must see posts like this and wonder "Why even bother??"

https://www.brattons.com/newly-re-tooled-aluminum-2-bulb-headlight-reflectors.html

Charlie Stephens said:
I would get the reproductions from Bratton's. Search the archives and you will see that their new reflectors are the correct shape and the plating they use is better than silver in the long run. This is not a place to cut corners. I don't think you would be happy with hydro-dipping in the long run if you intend to use the lights to see with (if you want to park the car in a museum then maybe).

Charlie Stephens
Click to expand...
 
Chrome is illegal to use as reflector plating in head lights. The only reason they get away with selling it because most people do not use their head lights for driving.
 
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