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Subject:Re: Window tinting
From:David Schwarze
Date:Thu, 2 Feb 1995 14:46:54 -0800 (PST)

martha rubin writes:
> 
> I have a question on window tinting as well.  I bought my used '81
> westy with the windows already tinted.  They all look fine, EXCEPT
> for the rear hatch window, which has some scratches on it, plus
> little bits of missing film, etc.  Will removing the existing
> film there damage the rear-window defogger?  Is it made from
> wires in the glass or conductive paint?  Should I try it myself
> or leave it to professional?

It's really easy to break those little defrost wires.  One pass with a
razor blade can wipe out all of them.  I once removed the tint from a
rear window for reasons similar to yours, and even though I was very careful,
I broke two of the lines.  I would leave it to a professional, and let them
know in no uncertain terms that they had better not break any of the
defroster wires.  Try to find a place that can supply references, since
I don't know of any way to repair the wires once they are broken.

-David

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David Schwarze                  '73 VW Safare Custom Camper (Da Boat)
SAIC Comsystems                 '73 Capri GT 2800 (Da Beast)
San Diego, California           '87 Mustang Lx 5.0 (Da Bruiser?  Soon...)
schwarze@nosc.mil                http://papaya.nosc.mil/~schwarze
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