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Date: Wed, 12 Aug 1998 11:10:44 -0400
From: "anon" <anonnopsam.com>
Subject: Re: Looking to have my windows tinted


Michelle Hampton wrote in message <12173-35CE3F15-67nopsamd-113.bryant.webtv.net>... Can anyone help me on what I should look for in having my windows tinted on my Saab? For example, what I should ask the window tinter? Any help would be greatly appreciated. I am new to this so please explain in detail. Michelle, Tinting is done through the application of a film to the inside of your windows: I'd recommend that you go to the installer and ask if you can watch an installation in progress and see the finished product. Check the following: Find out what the legal limit for tinting is in your area. You don't want to spend $100 on a tint just to have some cop order you to remove it. Also cops are wary about approaching tinted cars because of difficulty seeing inside at night. If you get stopped, turn on your dome lights, they appreciate it. Make sure that the installation is seamless. To do this, installers use a single piece of tinting film on the side windows and several strips across the rear. Because the back window is so large, installers cannot use a single sheet to cover the entire window. The joining points between the strips are hidden by the defroster lines. Better installers use wider strips. Make sure you cannot see light between the defroster lines. A buddy of mine had a poor job done that did not take into account temperature expansion/contraction. This resulted in cracks letting light through the rear window - driving everyone nuts. Watch out for bubbles! To ensure a clean fit, installers float the film on a layer of liquid and as the liquid dries, the film sticks to the window without bubbles. Make sure this liquid is not just water or else your installation might peel. You can see there are painted lines around the inside of your rear window on the edge. If you run a finger on the paint is slightly raised from the window. A good installer will make sure that no bubbles (silvering) forms here by increasing the adhesive content in the installation liquid. Check an installed car for this. Look closely through an installed window. Make sure that the film does not distort the image seen through it. By all means use the scratch resistant upgrade. All installers use a plastic film. If some dirt is on the inside of your window, it can cause scratches when you open it. Even if you don't open your windows (?!) this is a good idea if you're a klutz like me. Check the metallic content of the film. Some films contain metallic particles to maximize visibility from inside and opaqueness from outside (like a 1-way mirror) but If you use a radar/laser detector to properly enjoy your Saab, the metallic tint can interfere with operation. There is an easy way to make sure that this doesn't happen. Get a sample of the film from your installer - you only need about 4"x6". Drive around until a signal triggers your radar/laser, note the signal strength. Then drive by again with the film wrapped around the front of the detector, and check the meter again. I can hear you say, 'the windshield isn't tinted.' That only affects stationary traps, but moving patrols always get you from the rear where you can't see them as easily (in my area they have started using rusted out Buicks). Enjoy your tint job! Alex C.

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