Hello: I've noticed that the thin plastic cover for the trunk-mounted third brake light cover is missing on a number of convertible XK8s as well as mine. The cost of a replacement on EBay is ridiculous, ranging from $118 to $197.
This would be a great item to scan and 3D print, which someone did for the pull handle on the headliner of the convertible hood.
Anyone game for this?

 

Hummm.... I have mine off now since I'm putting the third brake light in the wing. I'll have to check it out to see if I can make these in fiberglass. Could sell them for around $50 or less shipped, as long as I make one when making another part. Any interest?

 

I have mine secured with string they are not well attached. Having an alternative would be great. You can also paint it black or have fun with another cover if you are worried about color match. Keep this one going!

 

Color me interested....

 

FWIW , I tried string / dental floss, little coil springs, all of which proved to be not well attached. Then in June 2013, I tried three 2" long strips of automotive double stick tape as a trial experiment. I put a reminder inside the trunk to make sure it is still attached. These same strips are still intact. If I have to ever redo it, I will probably shorten the length to less than 1".

 

Hi: I'm game as long as it fits tight and looks good!
Larry

 

Just to be clear - I'm lookong for the plastic cover, not the light or the red filter (see photo).

 

OK I dug mine out & it is definitely something I can make in fiberglass. I'll be making a scoop in the next few days so I'll pull a mold off of the brake light cover at the same time. I'll keep you (y'all) updated on the progress.

 

Ok so I got the first part out of the mold. The mold release left a texture (I think it froze before drying - it's water based) in the gelcoat so I sanded it smooth & that made the gelcoat a little thin. It doesn't hurt the part, though.
At first I was disappointed in the fit: it didn't go all the way to the bottom on the sides close to the red lens. It was about a 16th of an inch short. Then I tried the original cover & it fit exactly the same.
I would like to re-design the part to cover the red lens more - covering the indention that the black strip goes in, but I don't know when I'll have time to do that. I think it would make a better looking part, though.
If anyone wants one you can have the one that's made now for $45 shipped in the continental U.S., &/or I'll be making more for the same price as I make other parts.




These are gelcoated fiberglass & will need to be primed before painting. I think 3M double-sided molding tape is probably the best way to attach it, but a good glue should work fine too.

 

Hi, Tha:
It looks like a respectable try.
Do you have a photo of the cover on top of the light fixture?
Thanks,
Larry

 

Took some in the daylight but they were blurry. So here's a couple with the flash.

 

Made a couple more...
There is a guy that messaged me on Feb. 17 & I didn't get an email about the message so I didn't notice it right away, but I've messaged him back & he will get first dibs on one of them. Yes I have the settings set to email me: i don't know why it didn't. Best to just email me if you want one. imthadriver@yahoo.com
Also, I think it best to grind down the three little tabs on the red lens for a better fit, even with the factry cover (circled in image).

 

Hi:
That was me. I was originally hoping someone would laser scan and 3D print it as was done with the headliner grommet, which fit beautifully and looks great.
However, giving all the work you've done, I'm willing to try it out!
Please let me know how I can pay you.
Cheers,
Larry

 

Well I finally figured out how to find sent messages, & I replied on Feb. 17th after all. Check your messages for that info &/or email me.

 

Mine arrived this week - perfect fit! Thanks @Tha Driver !!!

 

Just sent you a PM. At least I think I did...

 

Glad you like it.
I might add: if anyone uses glue to install any cover it might be a good idea to make sure the bolts that hold the assembly on are free. Mine spun in the plastic housing & if the cover wasn't loose/off it would have been a pain to remove it.
Edit: would love a photo of it painted & installed when you're through.

 

Good point, I had to fabricate some threaded hardware back when I changed to double sided automotive tape.

 

I haven't received a PM from you - looking forward to buying it from you.
- Larry

 

I just tried again. Maybe it will work this time. If not, email me. imthadriver(at)yahoo(.com)