Wow Kirk!
Now that is a breakthrough in window films indeed!
Thanks to all those who posted a response to my inquiry.
I have certainly learned tons more about window tinting
I am going to look into this new technology.

Doug

----- Original Message -----
From: "Kirk Hockin" <dochockin@TELUS.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Tuesday, April 13, 2004 10:34 PM
Subject: Re: Want to put tint on windows and looking for thoughts and
opinions

> Ok I can tell you about a fab new tinting film.  It's a German product
> manufactured by HuperOptik
> http://www.huperoptikusa.com/products_ceramic.cfm
>
> This stuff is the bombdiddly if you want to cut down solar heating.  I'm
> planning to tint my '83 Wasserwesty before I head to Mexico next winter.
> I'm sure my all black dog will love me for it.
>
> Anyhow, this film was developed for the StealthBummer coz the pilots and
> instruments were too hot so the cockpit windshield was like a big IR
> flag.
>
> It blocks far more heat and allows far more visible light to transfer
> through your windows.  If you want to cut down heat this is the stuff,
> if your looking to be a private driver, it may not be what you want.
>
> The film is ceramic based, not metallic (so no coastal air problems) and
> not dyed (so it don't turn purple).  It also has a LIFETIME transferable
> warranty.
>
> The catch?  Well it's more than double the price of regular tinting
> film.
>
> Sound sweet eh?
>
> Kirk
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
> Of Doug in CA
> Sent: April 13, 2004 7:13 PM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Want to put tint on windows and looking for thoughts and
> opinions
>
> Hi Volks,
>
> I am considering tinting the windows on my 87 syncro to give both some
> privacy and solar protection.
> I have looked into tint before from Tap plastics and they carry several
> percentages of window tint.
> The 3M stuff they sell for auto does not turn purple from the sun after
> time like other tints do.
>
> Here's the rub, When I put the dark limo tint on my 85 and tried it out
> I found that it really does not help the solar gain as much as one might
> think.  A "black" glass gets very very hot in the sun, this heat then
> radiates into the vanagon.
>
> In California the do not allow metallic or reflective window tints which
> do reflect the heat.
> I have noticed on many new cars that they are using a metallic tint from
> the factory but it is very slight.
>
> Has anybody found a good interior shade or tint that will reflect the
> heat and keep the glass cool?
>
> I believe even a standard curtain that is light in color or silver
> reflective which the Eurovans use is far superior to keeping the
> interior temps down vs. the dark tint.
>
> Any thoughts are certainly appreciated.
>
> Doug