[XtremeAaron]

I picked up some smoked side-markers from a user on here about a year or so ago at a discount because the right side-marker had a broken clip. The user had repaired it by chopping off a stock grey clip from a factory unit and glued it on. I got into a fender bender about a month ago and insurance was going to fix me up and install a new front bumper cover. Before taking my car in for repairs I went and removed the smoked lenses for the orange stocks so they wouldn't break at the shop and cause them any issues. When I got my car back I went to install the smoked lenses and the amber LEDs and I broke the tab where it loops around, which made it virtually impossible to repair.

I had 3 choices: Buy a new set, chop one of my stock clips, or repair what I have.

I chose repair what I have. I got my resin supplies out, made a silicone mold and cast myself a new clip. I am very impressed with the outcome. My mold worked great, no bubbles in my cast piece, and was a perfect replica of an unharmed clip. After casting, I sanded the base of the clip a little bit to flatten it, cleaned up the cast a bit, painted and glued it to the lens.

Works like a charm and im very happy to have them back on the car!

Next project? Make my own lenses, tablet mount.

Pictures:

 

[H3LLON3ARTH]

Fing Awesome dude man if im in need of molds i will hit you up lol.

 

[XtremeAaron]

Thanks man. I can't wait to get a spare set of stockers so I can split and cast them. The current smoked lenses don't look like great quality and being a perfectionist I think I can do a better job.

Tablet mount is proving very tricky though. I have to use a clay like substance to form the mount but clay is too fragile and sags/looses form very quickly. I'll come up with something that will work to make a mold though I'm sure.

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[APCruze]

Any thought of making some extra smoked lens's and backs and selling them... Im sure im not alone in wanting a set but not talented (or determined enough) to make our own set... I know I would put out $25-35 for a set. If you could get enough people interested might make it worth wild.

 

[XtremeAaron]

Yes I have considered it and plan to as long as all goes well! Not sure on pricing though, we will have to see.

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[Marz0008]

quick question, do you have to take the front bumper off in order to remove the side marker lens'?

 

[TMcDermid]

They pop right out. I used a dash trim removal tool - was easy.

 

[XtremeAaron]

quick question, do you have to take the front bumper off in order to remove the side marker lens'?

Nope, 4-5 screws and you can reach in behind the fenderwell and release the clip. Give me a few days and Ill make a How To.

 

[Fenton]

Well these side marker looking good but have to installed the light bulbs in them? But really they are looking good and I like the idea to install them on the bumper because I think they are more visible here to next driver. Good Sharing, Thanks

 

[Marz0008]

Nope, 4-5 screws and you can reach in behind the fenderwell and release the clip. Give me a few days and Ill make a How To.

Thx!

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[XtremeAaron]

Here is the how to, hope it helps http://www.cruzetalk.com/forum/57-how-library/14341-how-gain-access-side-markers.html

 

[cornbreesha]

My side markers are scraped up, do you think there is anyway to sand or polish them without actually removing them? I'm scared to remove them only because I don't think I can be as crafty as you lol

 

[XtremeAaron]

I recommend removing them before polishing. If not you run the risk of hitting your bumper and it would look a lot better. I'm sure you checked out my how to? It's a very easy process!

 

[cornbreesha]

I recommend removing them before polishing. If not you run the risk of hitting your bumper and it would look a lot better. I'm sure you checked out my how to? It's a very easy process!

You're right I probably should just take them out lol. Thanks and yeah I did check out the how-to, doesn't seem too difficult at all!

 

[XtremeAaron]

Awesome, any questions let me know. Take some before and after shots!

 

[mercurio]

Hello, friend! Man, these side markers are even a beauty! Too bad the brazilian Cruze did not have this equipment. I thought of importing the side markers because they are small, but I would have to make the hole in the bumper to install them. No chance, very hard. Congratulations on your ability to fix your side marker, very good job. "Até logo"!

 

[XtremeAaron]

Thanks for the kind words!

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[98sonoma]

My clip broke on my aftermarket side marker...I haven't taken it out to repair it yet. what would you charge me for a new clip for mine?

 

[XtremeAaron]

PMed!

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