Date:         Thu, 29 Jan 2009 19:08:21 +0000
Reply-To:     mtbiker62@COMCAST.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Bob Stevens <mtbiker62@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Re: secure storage?/window tint
Comments: To: pbrattan@gmail.com
In-Reply-To:  <699b6e3f0901291052s46df89e7m80aac09a5c7657c5@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8

What tint did you get?  I'd like to get my windows tinted, but don't know what to ask for.
Patti


Patti,
3M
I couldn't find a local person who had experience with any local shops so I went to 2 that were in the yellow pages. One quoted $400 and the second $300 so I took them. I was impressed with how many vehicles they had both on their lot, and since I could see their indoor warehouse where all the vehicles they were currently working on, I felt comfortable that they were getting a lot of referrals/business. I was concerned about going to a place that might set up business and only stay a few months, then bail out. If I were to do this again (I'm very satisfied with what I ended up with) I'd ask my local shop that works on my van, as I usually do but didn't in this instance.

Any shop will be able to tell you exactly what different tints they use and why, and what is legal in your area (Calif. in your case). They will even give you the option of buying/having installed illegal tints (too dark, especially on the driver/passenger side windows). I got what I think is called Limousine grade, which is quite dark and I like it. Some people think it's so dark during daylight driving that it inhibits their view too much to feel safe. I don't have that experience, but I use my sideview mirrors and a lot of head-swiveling when I make lane changes or back up.

Newer tints don't turn purple/fade over time like they used to, and seem to stay stuck for a very long time without peeling or bubbling.

Bob