Herculine hood and insert

[Marlin]

Well, I was bored again, installed the inclinometer, that took all of 10 minutes, so with it being 68 degrees and sunny, I decided to herculine the insert and parts of the hood/fender. I am not sure about the cladding yet. Only took a quart or so to do two coats on what is in the pics.
The only part I don't like is it kind of looks like the batmobile or something. I may fill in the center part. That actually will help quite a bit I think. Once the cladding is shined up, if I don't herculine it, it will look nice. No more rock chips for this guy:)
Masked off:

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1584.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1586.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1585.JPG

First coat:

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1589.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1588.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1587.JPG

Final...for now:

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1594.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1593.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1592.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1591.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1590.JPG

[Triathlete]

Deep down inside you know you have always wanted an Ebony!:bwgy: Now your one step closer to owning one!:yesy:

[Marlin]

Here it is blacked in:

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/blacked_in.JPG

Billy, in the words of a crazy old wise man
""I have no response to that"

[Marlin]

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1590.JPG

It does make it look a lot more serpent like...

[don moore]

looking at the front pics ...i was thinking of painting my fangs like the shadow on yours ...wide on top and make a point on the bottom of the fangs.sorry ....jack thread

[atilla_the_fun]

Pika-PIIIIIIII

[Marlin]

Pika-PIIIIIIII

Pika-chu?????

[Ascinder]

Pika-PIIIIIIII

Dammit, beat me to it:(

[RallyDude]

So which inclinometer did you go with?

I've got to get one of those magnet bras. I know others have used the herculine. I wonder how it is to keep clean as it seems like it would be a dirt magnet? I'm not a big fan, but no one can say that you're neglecting you car; you're always working on it. As long as you like it is all that matters.

At this point, I'd probably fill in the center section. If the side angles had a bit of room between the herculine and the hood insert, then I think it would look better, but with them touching, it creates kind of an odd yellow island. You may have a hard time blending the new and old herculine without being able to see a line. Another option would be to cut the VX logo (the bold aftermarket titanium grill ones) out of vinyl, stick this in the center area, herculine the center area, then remove the vinyl. You'd end up with a bright yellow VX peeking from behind the herculine.

[Marlin]

So which inclinometer did you go with?

I've got to get one of those magnet bras. I know others have used the herculine. I wonder how it is to keep clean as it seems like it would be a dirt magnet? I'm not a big fan, but no one can say that you're neglecting you car; you're always working on it. As long as you like it is all that matters.

At this point, I'd probably fill in the center section. If the side angles had a bit of room between the herculine and the hood insert, then I think it would look better, but with them touching, it creates kind of an odd yellow island. You may have a hard time blending the new and old herculine without being able to see a line. Another option would be to cut the VX logo (the bold aftermarket titanium grill ones) out of vinyl, stick this in the center area, herculine the center area, then remove the vinyl. You'd end up with a bright yellow VX peeking from behind the herculine.

Yep, as for keeping it clean, no problems, my first bumper was herculined, it just hoses off. I am putting a UV topcoat on it as well. So no fading and it should stay shiny. As for blending, as long as I make decision soon, I should be ok.
As for the inclinometer, check over on my inclinometer thread, I will post up a pic in a few minutes.

[vt_maverick]

Two thoughts... What are you planning to do with the corners of the hood insert? Looks kinda of weird to have them still black/dark gray/gray right next to the herculined sections. And the second is I don't think I would fill in the middle section, but I do think a logo there would definitely improve the look.

Btw, does herculiner always look that wet? Or is that just after the initial application? If it fades it would be nice to see updated pics. (Hint hint)

[Marlin]

Two thoughts... What are you planning to do with the corners of the hood insert? Looks kinda of weird to have them still black/dark gray/gray right next to the herculined sections. And the second is I don't think I would fill in the middle section, but I do think a logo there would definitely improve the look.

Btw, does herculiner always look that wet? Or is that just after the initial application? If it fades it would be nice to see updated pics. (Hint hint)

The corners are where the tape was, I still need to take the insert off and finish it. Yes it always looks that wet:) No fading, I am putting UV protectant over it. As for the symbol, a first gen Zu emblem might be just right. I will look into that. Another good idea...you are on a roll. I would have painted today, but spent 2 hours doing brake lines and pads. Now I am beat, why do those damned tires have to be so heavy?:) I think I might actually start the cladding tomorrow as well. No more maguires back to black...sounds like a good door prize at Moab being that I have two bottles of it left.
I am hesitant though, the drips on the cladding just peel right off. I will have to 60 grit it all first...there is no going back from this project. Such is life, just jump in, like I usually do.

[vt_maverick]

...Another good idea...you are on a roll.

Comes from spending as much time contemplating mods as you spend actually doing them lol. ;)

[RallyDude]

Do you have any of the front cladding left that you cut off the front? You could do some tests there first before committing to all the cladding and the insert.

[Marlin]

Thats a good idea, but not really my style as some of the others can attest. For the most part, my projects come out pretty successful. The rear end project, no planning, the bumper, had a plan, didn't follow it at all, paint thing will work out like all the others:) My wife angrily calls it the "midas touch". It infuriates her that I come up with these ideas on the fly. My English Comp teacher keeps complimenting me on following the process for the papers we write. Little does she know, from start to finish is under one hour turn around. I turn in rough drafts for 100% grades.:) I can't wait to tell her...after my final grade is in of course.

[Marlin]

Wow, I have pissed off/annoyed enough people that I don't even get negative comments anymore!!! Yippeee!!!! Anyway, I took your advice and ordered a 10" first gen Isuzu emblem in red. I think its gonna be sweet in that yellow gap. Thanks for the idea...
I will probably start on the cladding tomorrow, I had duty today so I was not able to do anything, I forgot about that.
I am liking the look more and more, I will post a distance shot tomorrow as well, its looks pretty sweet, follows the curve of the cladding quite nicely and adds some umph to the front end. It really looks like a tonka truck now.

[Marlin]

Comes from spending as much time contemplating mods as you spend actually doing them lol. ;)

Bring that pretty foxfire with you on your next trip down here, I will get to work...I will have her trail ready in under a week, just spot me about 1000 for parts, and you are on your own for tires. That gets you new ball joints with a flip, front locker, OME lift, and some judicial scratches and dents to give it that "ripped jean" look:)

[atilla_the_fun]

I'm really curious to know how this stuff sticks to the cladding, it looks like it dries really inflexible?

[pbkid]

wow, usually im the kind of person who says thats its your car and if you like it, DO IT!....... but.......damn dude........ damn......

you should of just did the whole vehicle, you know you'll end up doing it eventually anyhow...

[PK]

Wow, I have pissed off/annoyed enough people that I don't even get negative comments anymore!!! Yippeee!!!!

Marlin, I mostly live by the advice that "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all".:angel::angel:

But just to show you that I am not peed off at you -



I ain't gonna say nuthin!!!! :_wtf::_wtf::eek:




Mate, I really hope you like it.:yeso::yesgray:


PK

[JoFotoz]

I'm in!!


just spot me about 1000 for parts, and you are on your own for tires. That gets you new ball joints with a flip, front locker, OME lift, and some judicial scratches and dents to give it that "ripped jean" look:)


...for $1K....locker and flip (& an OME lift!)...and new ball joints....
.....(I've already got the scratches thanks...do i get a discount?)

On the stoop...year 2011....room 111...you'll find me!

Bring it....I'll have cash.

jo

[vt_maverick]

Bring that pretty foxfire with you on your next trip down here, I will get to work...I will have her trail ready in under a week, just spot me about 1000 for parts, and you are on your own for tires. That gets you new ball joints with a flip, front locker, OME lift, and some judicial scratches and dents to give it that "ripped jean" look:)

Wouldn't mind some of that (flip and OME lift) but based on that last part I'm not sure I'll bring her any closer than across the street for fear of a Marlinstein attack. :)

I'm with pbkid, just do the whole vehicle. IMHO this is one of the toughest looking VX's out there:

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/1009.jpg

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/1010.jpg

[Marlin]

I had a reason for doing it. The VX was in an accident back in 04, drivers fender is not the original, it is a much lighter after market, you can tell by knockin on it. They did an awesome jobon the paint match, but the paint itself is cheap. It chips if you look at it, and I was just tired of touching it up. No more touch ups for me. I will have to post a distance picture, its actually not so bad. I do need to finish the insert and start on the cladding.
I think the Linex version looks pretty sweet,minus the PVC pipe on the front and the dryer conduit snorkel, but hey, with our trucks, you gotta fab your own stuff.

[Marlin]

Here are the distance shots, like I said, it doesn't look bad at all. Please note that my lawn is a little bit greener than the neighbors.

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1597.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1598.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1599.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1600.JPG

[Marlin]

Wouldn't mind some of that (flip and OME lift) but based on that last part I'm not sure I'll bring her any closer than across the street for fear of a Marlinstein attack. :)

I'm with pbkid, just do the whole vehicle. IMHO this is one of the toughest looking VX's out there:

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/1009.jpg

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/1010.jpg

What is that rear tow hook mounted to? I want one...

[vt_maverick]

What is that rear tow hook mounted to? I want one...

Maybe the rear bumper bar behind the cladding, and he just drilled a hole through the cladding to attach it? I can't think of any other place to mount one that would be that high up.

[crotchrocket]

Wow, I have pissed off/annoyed enough people that I don't even get negative comments anymore!!! .

I dont like it, looks terrible :D

[VX KAT]

IMHO this is one of the toughest looking VX's out there:
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/1009.jpg

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/1010.jpg


WHOA! Never saw this one before! Now THAT is a true TONKA TRUCK!!:thumbup:

BigMeat comes in as next best Tonka Truck!

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3260/2010_pics_2255.jpg (http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/showphoto.php/photo/17729)

[Triathlete]

And now we know where you really got your inspiration from!:bwgy:
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1598.JPG

[Mile High VX]

And now we know where you really got your inspiration from!:bwgy:
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1598.JPG

He just needed the short yellow bus...:bwgy::smilewink:bgwo::bgwb:

[Marlin]

Yep, they cut the funding in my area for bus programs.

[Mile High VX]

Move on out here and you can ride the school bus...for a fee of 50 cents per day...man is that messed up or what?

[Marlin]

I hear ya, they really did cancel buses here, we have to take the kids to school which increased traffic some ridiculous amount. Now they have to put in a few more stoplights, at couple million bucks a piece, plus widen the roads, traffic control by officers...would have been cheaper to keep buses running. They only use the uses for those that live within 4 miles of school?! How does that make any effing sense?

[SlowPro48]

Dude you have outdone yourself this time. What did you apply that stuff with - a broom? Haha! Just kidding - I know Herculiner is supposed to look rough like that.

I think the straight lines are what's bothering me. Everything else on the VX is rounded. It was built before the angular, stealth fighter look became popular. If you could find some Artool stencils/templates with a tribal pattern or some cheetah spots or something you could add them along the edge of the black to break up the harsh line and blend the black into the yellow a little better. Yeah, that's it. In fact why don't you do the whole village and pimp the entire thing out with cheetah spots... It's already got teeth!

[Marlin]

Dude you have outdone yourself this time. What did you apply that stuff with - a broom? Haha! Just kidding - I know Herculiner is supposed to look rough like that.

I think the straight lines are what's bothering me. Everything else on the VX is rounded. It was built before the angular, stealth fighter look became popular. If you could find some Artool stencils/templates with a tribal pattern or some cheetah spots or something you could add them along the edge of the black to break up the harsh line and blend the black into the yellow a little better. Yeah, that's it. In fact why don't you do the whole village and pimp the entire thing out with cheetah spots... It's already got teeth!

I did talk to the wifey about putting a small red pinstripe along the transition point since I have small red accents, tow hooks, calipers, soon to be 10" 1st gen Isuzu decal in the yellow "hole" in the middle. I think Ldub did that when he lined his fenders, so not to steal his thunder, perhaps not. I am surprised that Riff and Ldub and Rowhard have not chimed in about this project...
When I bought the VX a few years ago, I had obsessed over the various "iconic" VXs, I was telling Ashley when he was here a few weeks ago that I wanted mine to be an "iconic" VX. The VX alone turns heads, but I wanted more, I think of the truck as a drug. I do make sure that its almost always function over form, no chrome door trim, or any other "bling" or "mexicana" as they call it around here. I know most if not all of you think, damn, what are you doing? But, it all serves a purpose, and some of the things I do are projects that others think about but don't have the balls to try. I have never really done anything like this to a car ever, so it is a great learning experience. Maybe one day, after the VX gives up the ghost to cancer, I will get an old FJ, or D90 or something, and these experiences will allow me to better mod an expensive vehicle, where as, lets face it, the VX is cheap. I know you single owner VX guys paid some bucks for yours, but hell, I paid over 20K for a 1st gen Rav4 back in the day. I bet my old 98 Rav4 is worth more than the VX:( I will post up some more pics as I paint the cladding, only a few more days till the RS shows up, and then its gonna be a new toy, so the VX will take backseat for a while. Still have the IFS kit to install, and the ball joint spacer and low pro bump stops showed up today. Thats a one hour job, so probably tomorrow afternoon if I can get out early.

[RickOKC]

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/IMGP1598.JPG

1) Why are you licking the side of that pick up?

2) Hmmm, I always imagined you would be taller.

:p

[JHarris1385]

If it stays wet looking on the hood insert...does this defeat the purpose of the anti-glare properties?

I like it. My feeling is what makes you happy, do it. I REALLY want to line-x the whole thing but that seems to be much more $ than this....Go ahead and do your whole VX as a test run for me! Seriously how much do you think it would be to cover the whole VX?

[RickOKC]

I'm with pbkid, just do the whole vehicle. IMHO this is one of the toughest looking VX's out there:

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/1009.jpg


I'm really starting to warm up to flat and satin paint jobs. That looks just plain EEE-vil! Hmmmm, don't they make Line-X in various colors? I think Isuzu picked some great colors and I bet a maroon/black or dark green/black VX would be pretty amazing.

[Marlin]

If it stays wet looking on the hood insert...does this defeat the purpose of the anti-glare properties?

I like it. My feeling is what makes you happy, do it. I REALLY want to line-x the whole thing but that seems to be much more $ than this....Go ahead and do your whole VX as a test run for me! Seriously how much do you think it would be to cover the whole VX?

Anti-glare schmanti-blare. I have no idea what the real purpose of putting a piece of fiberglass on top of the hottest part of the vehicle was...but it looks cool.
As for licking the truck, that is how I know when its time to wash and wax, its an old witch doctor trick. The real question is how did I get over there fast enough after setting up the camera;)

I would think it would cost at least a few thousand bucks to Line-x the whole truck, at least at retail cost. A bed costs 3 or 400, and that requires little to no prep work. Just imagine taping everything off, getting into all the crevices, corners...I remember a pic of an FJ cruiser that was line-xed a khaki color. It was awesome, he did the door jams and all. It was a quality job and very time consuming. I am dreading doing just the cladding, and that is just taping off the cladding/body lines, tail lights, gotta take the rear door spare mount off,or perhaps just go over that as well. I don't know yet.

[RickOKC]

As for licking the truck, that is how I know when its time to wash and wax, its an old witch doctor trick. The real question is how did I get over there fast enough after setting up the camera;)
Tripod and a timer? Yes, sir, I'll shut my piehole now. :bwgy:

Darn, tried to make a Proton/Black Line-X Photoshop in your honor, but my colorizer looks like complete poo when it comes to lighter colors. :(

Here's a "Foxfire"/Black 'shop:

http://members.cox.net/radamsokc/RedBlack.jpg

[Tookie]

Waaa siiiiiiick. go photoshop a dark green one now ;)

[RickOKC]

Darn... should have been darker (I'm not very good at this.)

http://members.cox.net/radamsokc/GreenBlack.jpg

Hmmmm, I'm a BIG fan of blue, too...


http://members.cox.net/radamsokc/BlueBlack.jpg

[vt_maverick]

http://members.cox.net/radamsokc/BlueBlack.jpg

Now that IS sick... he may be onto something here Marlin... :thumbup:

[Marlin]

Now that IS sick... he may be onto something here Marlin... :thumbup:

Ummm, you are talking a few grand for something like that, I could buy a whole nother VX for that kind of money...

[vt_maverick]

You mean you couldn't have bought a whole other VX for the money you've already spent? ;)

[circmand]

Here it is blacked in:

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/blacked_in.JPG

Billy, in the words of a crazy old wise man
""I have no response to that"

That aint right

[Marlin]

You mean you couldn't have bought a whole other VX for the money you've already spent? ;)

Umm, between the 120K PMS and the gadgets, locker, lift, wheels tires and so on, I probably have close to $10K plus the cost of the truck invested, not including the tranny swap. I could have bought 2 more VXs for that...but they would be just plain old boring VXs:bgwb:

Just finished the ball joint swap, took about 1.8 hours, 30 minutes of which was trying to get the factory bump stops off and trying to find one of the castle nuts. The nut had fallen into the jack. I am not sure what the point of the low profile stops is, they are less than 1/8" difference from the factory. They are a bit bigger as far as contact area though. Oh well, its done now. Why is it every time I do something mechanical on the truck, she demands some type of blood sacrifice? If I was a mechanic for a living, I would have to have the Red Cross on site all the time to supply me fresh blood.
Hopefully tomorrow I can make some progress on the paint. Stand by.

[RallyDude]

I'm surprised that you say you have an aftermarket fender. With as few of these that they made, I'm shocked the aftermarket would even have one available.

I think your idea of having to back up from it and take pictures to make it look better is a strange concept. Sure it looks better further away, if you back up another half mile or so, it may even look better. Not at all what I want for my truck, but if you're happy, that's really all that matters. The interior of your truck threw me off as well. Are all the wires everywhere just mid-project, or do you like the rat's nest look for the dash? I know you boast that you do the projects others just think about, but maybe they didn't do the project because they thought it through and decided it wouldn't look good. I'm sure there's stuff on my truck that members would find fugly as well, but I think you may be setting a new record. That's just my 2¢.

[Marlin]

I'm surprised that you say you have an aftermarket fender. With as few of these that they made, I'm shocked the aftermarket would even have one available.

I think your idea of having to back up from it and take pictures to make it look better is a strange concept. Sure it looks better further away, if you back up another half mile or so, it may even look better. Not at all what I want for my truck, but if you're happy, that's really all that matters. The interior of your truck threw me off as well. Are all the wires everywhere just mid-project, or do you like the rat's nest look for the dash? I know you boast that you do the projects others just think about, but maybe they didn't do the project because they thought it through and decided it wouldn't look good. I'm sure there's stuff on my truck that members would find fugly as well, but I think you may be setting a new record. That's just my 2¢.

As I mentioned, the wires were mid project. I am electrician by trade, so my electrical work is typically top notch. As for the backing up, I meant that it would seeing the overall picture vs. the in your face shot.

The fender is definitely not OEM. It is much thinner, the passenger side has a thunk, the drivers is more of a tink. I don't know that repainting could make that much of a sound difference.

[JHarris1385]

Do a flat red photoshop if you dont mind. And a Kaiser flat.

[RickOKC]

Do a flat red photoshop if you dont mind. And a Kaiser flat.
Hey J,

Are you talking about a bright red instead of maroon? If so, here it is. As for Kaiser... beyond my skills. :( (I'm sure it doesn't help that my software is 7 years old.) I'd never played around with colorizing before last night and my best attempt at Kaiser was a complete mess. I can say that lavender & gray is not a good color combination!

http://members.cox.net/radamsokc/BrightRedBlack.jpg

[JHarris1385]

That looks good...pretty close as to what I was thinking. I should have defined red but you did pretty well. Thanks!

[nocturnalVX]

:crying:

[JoFotoz]

...
.
.
....IT LOOKS HORRIBLE.

...

..just my take.

:_beer:

atb

jo

[Tookie]

Darn... should have been darker (I'm not very good at this.)

http://members.cox.net/radamsokc/GreenBlack.jpg




Waaaaaaaa I'm in looooooove

[RallyDude]

I agree, I like the new flat finishes they are doing on cars, but I wonder how they wear. Do you wax a flat finish?

Oh, and it's not horrible, he just hasn't backed up enough with the camera!

Marlin, I'm glad you like it. It doesn't really matter how a hard-core trail rig looks anyway.

[pbkid]

I agree, I like the new flat finishes they are doing on cars, but I wonder how they wear. Do you wax a flat finish?

Oh, and it's not horrible, he just hasn't backed up enough with the camera!

Marlin, I'm glad you like it. It doesn't really matter how a hard-core trail rig looks anyway.


true that....

after some more thought chris- i can definately see the function in what you did.... just complete the paint job next time before you take pics and you'll get much better reviews i bet ;)

[Marlin]

true that....

after some more thought chris- i can definately see the function in what you did.... just complete the paint job next time before you take pics and you'll get much better reviews i bet ;)

I don't mind criticism, hell, half of what I do gets criticized:)

Just got back with the RS, the VX is safe for quite a while, I have a new toy to mess with. I am not going crazy though, just CB, Stereo, lift, lighting upgrade...it looks like a tonka toy!!

[Marlin]

I just pulled the insert, cleaned out all the gunk under there, lined all that as well, no more rust, then finsihed the insert itself. Also went ahead and did the drivers window bracket with the SBC brackets. DIdn't help the drivers window go up any better:( Actually I think its worse now:( I tried sliding the glass around, might have to try and push it forward in the slots some more.

[vt_maverick]

Also went ahead and did the drivers window bracket with the SBC brackets. DIdn't help the drivers window go up any better:( Actually I think its worse now:( I tried sliding the glass around, might have to try and push it forward in the slots some more.

I had the same experience, the SBC brackets made a huge difference in the passenger side but didn't make as much difference on the driver's side (still have to "help" the window up). It goes up just fine after it gets about 2 inches out of the door, but IMHO that's still not good enough. The guys at the shop I use kind of see my VX as a pet project (they love working on something besides Taurus's and Civics) so they asked if I could leave it overnight next time for them to experiment. Who knows, maybe they'll come up with something to augment the brackets.

Stay (patiently) posted. ;)

[Marlin]

I had the same experience, the SBC brackets made a huge difference in the passenger side but didn't make as much difference on the driver's side (still have to "help" the window up). It goes up just fine after it gets about 2 inches out of the door, but IMHO that's still not good enough. The guys at the shop I use kind of see my VX as a pet project (they love working on something besides Taurus's and Civics) so they asked if I could leave it overnight next time for them to experiment. Who knows, maybe they'll come up with something to augment the brackets.

Stay (patiently) posted. ;)

Mine goes up fin until the last 4 or 5 inches. Thats when it binds...boo!

[RickOKC]

Also went ahead and did the drivers window bracket with the SBC brackets. DIdn't help the drivers window go up any better:( Actually I think its worse now:( I tried sliding the glass around, might have to try and push it forward in the slots some more.


I had the same experience, the SBC brackets made a huge difference in the passenger side but didn't make as much difference on the driver's side (still have to "help" the window up). It goes up just fine after it gets about 2 inches out of the door, but IMHO that's still not good enough.

Well, this sounds familiar. :o

The previous owner had installed the SBC brackets before I bought the VX. The passenger side works perfectly but the driver's side would still twist forward while being raised. Silicone spray made it work great for about a month, and a second application helped when it needed again later, but was the result was not nearly as good. A few weeks ago I took the window out while replacing the lock assembly.

When I reinstalled the window, the twisting was the worst ever until I slid the SBC bracket as far toward the door hinges as possible. No more twisting, but now I get a little wind noise on the highway. There is also a worrying "thunk" as the window completely closes that makes me think the top of the window is not aligned properly with the upper channel. Seems to be a fine balancing act.

I would have kept trying to find the sweet spot, but there is so much slop throughout the entire regulator assembly that I was left with the impression that it is just plain ol' worn out. (Lots of speculation on my part since this is the first time I ever played with "door guts.") Once I have time to mess around with it again, I intend on comparing it to the passenger side regulator before I actually start shopping for a replacement.

[nfpgasmask]

http://www.columbusicesharks.net/images/jeffdaniels2.jpg

Just when I thought you couldn't make your VX any uglier...and then you go and do something like this......AND TOTALLY REDEEM YOURSELF!!! :laughing:

:_beer:

Bart

PS - Sorry man, couldn't help myself.

[vt_maverick]

Well, this sounds familiar. :o

The previous owner had installed the SBC brackets before I bought the VX. The passenger side works perfectly but the driver's side would still twist forward while being raised. Silicone spray made it work great for about a month, and a second application helped when it needed again later, but was the result was not nearly as good. A few weeks ago I took the window out while replacing the lock assembly.

When I reinstalled the window, the twisting was the worst ever until I slid the SBC bracket as far toward the door hinges as possible. No more twisting, but now I get a little wind noise on the highway. There is also a worrying "thunk" as the window completely closes that makes me think the top of the window is not aligned properly with the upper channel. Seems to be a fine balancing act.

I would have kept trying to find the sweet spot, but there is so much slop throughout the entire regulator assembly that I was left with the impression that it is just plain ol' worn out. (Lots of speculation on my part since this is the first time I ever played with "door guts.") Once I have time to mess around with it again, I intend on comparing it to the passenger side regulator before I actually start shopping for a replacement.

The guys at my garage want to experiment with this same idea since they shared your observations (mostly that OEM tracks are crap even new out of the box) the last time I had it in the shop. Their idea is to leave the SBC bracket in place, but glue a tire weight or two to the part of the glass closest to the B pillar / door jam to keep the glass from leaning forward. We'll see how it goes.

[yellowgizmo99]

I was at an Autozone today getting some parts and there was a guy with a Jeep that was done complely with Line-X in blue and black on the flares and bumpers, looked good for a jeep, lol, anyway talked to him and he said it ran him 2300, the guy had taken all hinges and stuff off before he did the job and did a great job with the umpers and all.

[Marlin]

Well, its been a few months, thought I would update. It has been covered in mud, pressure washed a few times, and I just ran it through the car wash machine. No problems on the painted surfaces. The hood insert however is peeling off. I did not do any prep other than cleaning on the insert. I will pressure wash it off and sand it with 60 grit. I went ahead and put the UV top coat on today as well. Looks shiny and new!!! I will update a few months from now.

[tom4bren]

The guys at my garage want to experiment with this same idea since they shared your observations (mostly that OEM tracks are crap even new out of the box) the last time I had it in the shop. Their idea is to leave the SBC bracket in place, but glue a tire weight or two to the part of the glass closest to the B pillar / door jam to keep the glass from leaning forward. We'll see how it goes.

Ash,

You may want to re-read this thread for some other ideas for your windows.

http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=15572&highlight=window+fixin+party

[LINE-X]

Just my opinion: If you want to use a DIY bedliner, then OK, but I would not recommend Herculiner. Herc contains little rubber bits that tend to make the surface....not so attractive.

This guy applied Herc to the plastic bed rail caps. You can see what I mean about the rubber bits.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Other%20Brands/Herculiner4.jpg

[Marlin]

I understand, but you are comparing 80 bucks to do my entire truck, to 1000 plus to do my truck in Linex or rhino line. I don't think those products are 10 times better than herculiner.
Plus, the little bits that stick up work great at hiding scratches :)

[LINE-X]

I understand, but you are comparing 80 bucks to do my entire truck, to 1000 plus to do my truck in Linex or rhino line. I don't think those products are 10 times better than herculiner.
Plus, the little bits that stick up work great at hiding scratches :)

No, my comment was not about LINE-X at all, it's about DIY bedliner products. I'm just recommending that you choose a product that does not contain the rubber bits. That's it...

[Marlin]

No, my comment was not about LINE-X at all, it's about DIY bedliner products. I'm just recommending that you choose a product that does not contain the rubber bits. That's it...

Gotcha, unfortunately, Heculiner has brilliant marketing and is the only roll-on DIY bedliner kit that you can get off the shelf at just about any store that sells auto stuff. Its convenient availability makes it an easy choice. If I get a scratch, its easy to touch up and blend in and I can get it anywhere. I know there are some other really good ones, like monstaliner and a few others, but can't get them at the store:(

[LINE-X]

Gotcha, unfortunately, Heculiner has brilliant marketing and is the only roll-on DIY bedliner kit that you can get off the shelf at just about any store that sells auto stuff. Its convenient availability makes it an easy choice.(

There are TONS of DIY products that are easily available at stores. Even if you live out in the boonies (no stores), they ALL are available over the web. Duplicolor (Autozone, Walmart), Durabak, U-Pol Raptor, SEM, Monstaliner, Rustoleum (not the spray paint), Hippo, Plasti-Cote, Napa Finish 1, the list is endless. As far as durability goes, I don't think one is much better than the other, they are all very similiar products.

Yes, Herculiner has lots of advertising. Herculiner is manufactured in South Africa by Duram Paint for Old World Industries who owns Peak brand antifreeze.

[Marlin]

There are TONS of DIY products that are easily available at stores. Even if you live out in the boonies (no stores), they ALL are available over the web. Duplicolor (Autozone, Walmart), Durabak, U-Pol Raptor, SEM, Monstaliner, Rustoleum (not the spray paint), Hippo, Plasti-Cote, Napa Finish 1, the list is endless. As far as durability goes, I don't think one is much better than the other, they are all very similiar products.

Yes, Herculiner has lots of advertising. Herculiner is manufactured in South Africa by Duram Paint for Old World Industries who owns Peak brand antifreeze.

The only roll on available on the shelf is herculiner. Duplicolor is alright, I use that on my frame and sliders and whatnot, so when it gets scratched, just spray it on again.

I have found that the Herculiner is much thicker, for example, if it dries on something, you can peel it off in one continuous sheet that is fairly thick, the spray on stuff just kind of flakes off, more like paint than a rubber product.
I do understand that many others are available on the web, but for instant gratification purposes and bang for the buck, 1 gallon of herculiner can do all of the cladding on the VX and the hood insert, with more than one coat.

Just for curiosity's sake, What would it cost to do all the cladding and hood insert on the VX with Line-x, in black, with the UV inhibitor?

[Marlin]

Just for curiosity's sake, What would it cost to do all the cladding and hood insert on the VX with Line-x, in black, with the UV inhibitor?

Bump for response from Line-X dealer.

[LINE-X]

I don't have a final price yet. Were trying a few different things regarding adhesion. In addition, we found out there's a lot of 3M double stick tape used on the cladding that will have to be replaced, that will add to the price. I'll sure let you know once we figure it out. Were also waiting on some replacement cladding clips. It's almost impossible to remove the cladding without breaking some of them. It's fairly obvious that Isuzu designed the clips to be easily replaceable.

[Marlin]

FWIW, I have had my cladding off, I did break some clips, I never replaced them or the tape, and I have had no problems. No rattling, no crooked hanging...would save some time and money.

How about if someone did all the prep, and just dropped off the pieces ready for you to spray? If it isn't covered by the warranty anyway, shouldn't matter who does the prep. I would be willing to strip and sand my cladding/insert, drop it off and pick it up later. What would that run?

[VXorado]

My friend had his 1988 toyota truck sprayed with line-x. I remember the rear bumper cost $175 and the entire truck bed + tailgate (outside) cost $500. He removed and prepped both before bringing them to the Line-x shop.

I talked to the guy about spraying my cladding, he didn't know anything about a VX but said it would be $700-$1000 if i removed and prepped the cladding myself.

[VXorado]

Or you can DIY. This guy used a Raptor/U pol kt that sprays on. Its also tintable for different colors.


http://forum.ih8mud.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=282964&stc=1&d=1229479990

[LINE-X]

How about if someone did all the prep, and just dropped off the pieces ready for you to spray? If it isn't covered by the warranty anyway, shouldn't matter who does the prep. I would be willing to strip and sand my cladding/insert, drop it off and pick it up later. What would that run?

If you were to just bring in the cladding, no prep (we want to prep the plastic), the price with LINE-X with black Xtra (prevents fading and loss of gloss, fortifed with DuPont Kevlar) is $500. In my opinion, the cladding MUST be encapsulated meaning both sides of the plastic should be coated with LINE-X although the backside does not need to be thick or have a texture.

Keep in mind that LINE-X is more durable than the DIY products and will also be a thicker coating.

I have pics, but don't have my camera with me today, I'll post a few pics tomorrow.

[Marlin]

If you were to just bring in the cladding, no prep (we want to prep the plastic), the price with LINE-X with black Xtra (prevents fading and loss of gloss, fortifed with DuPont Kevlar) is $500. In my opinion, the cladding MUST be encapsulated meaning both sides of the plastic should be coated with LINE-X although the backside does not need to be thick or have a texture.

Keep in mind that LINE-X is more durable than the DIY products and will also be a thicker coating.

I have pics, but don't have my camera with me today, I'll post a few pics tomorrow.

Do you want to do the whole piece to minimize the chance of peel off? Makes sense, more like a LineX shrink wrap:)

[LINE-X]

Do you want to do the whole piece to minimize the chance of peel off? Makes sense, more like a LineX shrink wrap:)

Yes, that's correct. We cut up a drop-in truck bedliner which also is made of polypropylene (although all polypropylene's are not necessarily the same) and tried all sorts of things to test for adhesion. None of our tests results were what I would consider outstanding, so encapsulation is a way to decrease the chance of delamination.

[LINE-X]

OK, here are some work-in-progress pictures. When were finished, we will take some better pictures out in the sun.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Vehicross/Vehicross2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Vehicross/Vehicross1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Vehicross/Vehicross5.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Vehicross/Vehicross4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Vehicross/Vehicross3.jpg

Here, you can see that we applied some non-textured LINE-X to backside of the cladding. It's just enough to encapsulate most of the cladding.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Vehicross/Vehicross6.jpg

[LINE-X]

Unfortunately, it was a heavy overcast day when we finished. Perhaps the owner can take some pics in the sun and post them?!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Vehicross/Vehicross8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Vehicross/Vehicross9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Vehicross/Vehicross10.jpg

[Marlin]

Looks good.

[Bob Barker]

I want my whole truck done like that.

[LINE-X]

I want my whole truck done like that.

No problem :thumbup:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Toyota/TacomaRed1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Toyota/TacomaRed3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Toyota/TacomaRed11.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Toyota/TacomaRed7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v413/123Gone/Toyota/TacomaRed6.jpg

[Marlin]

I want my whole truck done like that.

Yep,in army green, with the kevlar stuff, like the Dominator on Storm Chasers...

[tom4bren]

Interesting little tid-bit about LineX that we found out by accident:

It's radar transparent (at least in the band we were working in).

That doesn't mean that you can't be hit by police radar though, it'll still reflect off of the metal in the body.

[LINE-X]

Yep,in army green, with the kevlar stuff, like the Dominator on Storm Chasers...

Funny thing about that Dominator: They had it sprayed with Rhino. During a storm chase, the Rhino failed and started tearing off. The stuff was just flapping in the wind. :happyface

LINE-X told them to go to a LINE-X dealer and have it done right!

[LINE-X]

Interesting little tid-bit about LineX that we found out by accident:

It's radar transparent (at least in the band we were working in).

That doesn't mean that you can't be hit by police radar though, it'll still reflect off of the metal in the body.

That's intersting because I was contacted by Raytheon regarding this issue. I don't know the frequency in question though.