FYI Group Buy: Lamin-X Headlight + Fog Light covers, 12-mil

[gerryvz]

Many years ago I bought a set of the Lamin-X headlight lens protector film, from Lamin-X. I never installed it on my car.

I recently came across the pieces, and I traced their shape out on a piece of heavy paper. This is the EXACT shape that is used by Lamin-X for the lens protectors that they sell.

I am thinking of buying a roll of Lamin-X and re-making a new set of the lens protectors for myself.

If there is enough interest from facelift car owners, I would be happy to purchase extra Lamin-X and trace my Lamin-X headlight shape templates, and sell the lens protectors for a very reasonable cost. Lamin-X is selling these covers for $45 a pair.

If I have five (5) people who are interested, then I'll put together an order for a roll of the protection film. I would get the thicker film.

Cheers,
Gerry

 

[northNH]

You may want to consider a roll of their 40 mil stuff; much much heavier and more durable than their pre-cut stuff.

I just bought 60” (by 12”) of this heavier stuff, enough for 2 facelift headlight sets, for $1.15 per inch (=$69) from a Volvo guy who buys the really big rolls of the 40 mil stuff...

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[gsxr]

40mil is overkill IMO - crazy thick. Even the 20-mil is probably overkill, that is what I used when I purchased a bulk roll many years ago. One bulk roll 12" x 15' will do 12 lenses (6 vehicles). IIRC, some people used 40 mil on their bumper fog lights and the fog lenses ended up cracking. (!??)

Lamin-X pre-cut headlight protectors are 12-mil thickness. I'm planning to buy another bulk roll and will probably go with the 12-mil next time. Easier to work with, and should still provide adequate impact protection, along with normal protection from sandblasting.

 

[northNH]

With all due respect, how is “easier to work with” relevent to covering such a simple shape and surface?

 

[gsxr]

With all due respect, how is “easier to work with” relevent to covering such a simple shape and surface?

You are right, it doesn't matter much for flat lenses. But for a surface with ANY curve, even the 20 mil is a PITA to get stuck down at the edges.

I had no issues with 20 mil on the W124 lenses, btw. I'm just not sure it's worth the extra cost vs the 12 mil. I don't know that I would apply 40 mil to any Mercedes lights or lenses.

 

[036]

Not allowed in lovely Deutchland....I´d love to use them....

 

[gerryvz]

Ok, let’s get back to the subject at hand.

I’m going to place an order for a roll of Lamin-X. Likely the 12 mil. The lenses I traced off of were the 20 mil.

How much I order depends on the level of interest. I am going to make two sets for myself — 124 and 126.

If others are interested, I’ll order more. If folks want me to trace and cut 124 lenses for them, great. If they just want the pieces and templates sent so they can cut their own, that’s fine too.

I’m just trying to figure out if anyone wants a discounted set from the $45 that Lamin-X charges.

If not, that’s fine and you can pay them the $45. If so, you can pay me to do the work and likely 50% discount, or do the work yourself and still have the same discount.

Does anyone want or need a set — Yes or No? If so, please reply with your name and I’ll follow up later.

I plan to order a roll in about a week. How much I order, is up to y’all. All I can say is that I will be using the original W124 facelift/Euro lens templates.

cheers
Gerry

 

[Duh_Vinci]

Gerry, I'm in if you could offer the uncut piece/s big enough for me to do the eurospec lenses on R129, I can give rough dimensions when I get home?

Regards,
D

 

[gerryvz]

That wouldn’t be a problem as the 129 lenses will roughly be similar or smaller than 124 lenses. Happy to help.

For grins, the 124 facelift lenses are approx 13” long by 8” wide (each).

 

[JC220]

Actually I would like a set for the headlamps and fogs of my C140 S500 Coupe Gerry. I'll get you dims in a day or two. (My E500 already has laminex and the others have pedestrian regular headlamps)

 

[gerryvz]

Here is the list as I have it so far.

This will be for the 12-mil thickness Lamin-X.

For the 124 "Facelift / Euro" lenses, a 13" long by 8" wide piece, per lens, is required.

The total cost will be somewhere around USD $28-30 per pair, including shipping, for domestic US orders. Likely it will be around USD $40 shipped for overseas/Europe orders (exact amount will be provided at time of shipping).

Compare this with the per-pair cost that Lamin-X quotes, which is (for the W124 facelift, 12-mil thickness) -- $44.95 + $5-8 shipping.
Lamin-X offers a 10% off discount, which would make the total cost for a US East Coast shipment $45.22 per pair.

I will need six people (two of them will be myself) to make this worthwhile. This would be to purchase a 15' roll to make six sets. If I get 10 or more people, then I'll purchase a 30' roll, which would be enough to make 12 sets.

LAMIN-X GROUP BUY
1. @gerryvz (E500 / W124)
2. @gerryvz (560SEC / C126)
3. @Duh_Vinci (R129, uncut/uncircumcised) - confirming dimensions
4. @JC220 (C140, uncut/uncircumcised) - confirming dimensions
5.
6.

 

[195910]

Correct me if wrong, but aren't these pre-cut set still available?

Mercedes E-Class (94-95) Headlight Covers

Looking to tint the headlights on your Mercedes E-Class (1994-1995)? Lamin-x Headlight Tint is custom cut to match the shape of your Mercedes headlights. Available in 5 colors and made in the USA.

dealers.lamin-x.com

 

[JC220]

Correct me if wrong, but aren't these pre-cut set still available?

Mercedes E-Class (94-95) Headlight Covers

Looking to tint the headlights on your Mercedes E-Class (1994-1995)? Lamin-x Headlight Tint is custom cut to match the shape of your Mercedes headlights. Available in 5 colors and made in the USA.

dealers.lamin-x.com

Read the whole thread! Gerry is buying a bulk roll and passing on a better deal to members

 

[gerryvz]

Correct me if wrong, but aren't these pre-cut set still available?

Mercedes E-Class (94-95) Headlight Covers

Looking to tint the headlights on your Mercedes E-Class (1994-1995)? Lamin-x Headlight Tint is custom cut to match the shape of your Mercedes headlights. Available in 5 colors and made in the USA.

dealers.lamin-x.com

Sure they are !! At a price of $45 + shipping.

I am offering a >50% discount for pre-cut (or uncut, whatever folks want) facelift/Euro 124 lens protectors over what Lamin-X is charging for the same thing.

 

[sheward]

I would like two sets for early euro lights, circumcised by you (provided you have a template) or blank sheets, either way. I would also be glad to pay for enough extra to cover two sets of fogs should that help to warrant the larger roll.

drew

 

[Duh_Vinci]

...I would also be glad to pay for enough extra to cover two sets of fogs should that help to warrant the larger roll...

As Drew, I too would be in for the extras for the fogs, will be happy to pre-pay as well. And thank you for putting this together!

Regards,
D

 

[r44raven]

I'm in for a set for a facelift E500. Shipping to the UK.

 

[Ertech]

I would take a set

 

[195910]

Aha , carry on then. Did not know we had a dislike button.

 

[JC220]

I'll confrim dimensions tomorrow Gerry. With the shape of the C140 headlamps being quite curvatious I don't think the Laminex would wrap the entire surface. So I will take a template and measure of what I think will protect the most front facing / flat surface from rock chips.

It shouldnt really matter having an exposed edge of Laminex no? It is just a sacrificial layer after all.

These C140 headlamps are almost as rare as E500E headlamps here no kidding. Had to buy a used C140 headlamp at £150 (The cheapest I could find) just to get the lense as one was rock chipped on my S500. New glass alone from MB is over £400

 

[Duh_Vinci]

Gerry,

I would be comfortable with 13" x 8" measurements for each headlight...

Thanks!
D

 

[gsxr]

I'll confrim dimensions tomorrow Gerry. With the shape of the C140 headlamps being quite curvatious I don't think the Laminex would wrap the entire surface.

The thinner (12 mil) film should wrap around curves. Check out their website How-To info which shows wrapping other marques bulbous lamps.

IIt shouldnt really matter having an exposed edge of Laminex no? It is just a sacrificial layer after all.

Exposed edge isn't an issue after the adhesive has set and the film is stuck in place.

 

[gerryvz]

Aha , carry on then. Did not know we had a dislike button.

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[gerryvz]

I only have templates for the facelift lamps. I would not attempt to do pre facelift Euro lenses. For anything BUT facelift lenses, I will only ship the uncut pieces.

I know I have the fog templates too — I will need to find them.

 

[outrbnks]

Sign me up for two sets for euro preface and 1 set facelift.. tnx..

 

[JC220]

Hi Gerry,

OK I checked and measured my C140 headlamps and I would like:

2no pieces at 20 x 12 inches
2no pieces at 6.5 x 3.5 inches (fogs)

(I understand that the C140 headlamps are quite large and if this causes any trouble for you Gerry its no problem dont worry about it) If its doable I'm in!

 

[gerryvz]

I'm going to place the Lamin-X order on Monday.

Fogs are going to add a bit more to the order, but not much.

Here is the total of folks, as I read it from this thread:

LAMIN-X GROUP BUY
1. @gerryvz (E500 / W124) - 1 set
2. @gerryvz (560SEC / C126) - 1 set
3. @Duh_Vinci (R129, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
4. @JC220 (C140, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
5. @sheward (2 x 500E) - 2 sets, uncut + fogs (one or two sets of fogs?)
6. @r44raven (E500 / W124) - 1 set
7. @Ertech (unknown) - 1 set (E500 cut set or 500E uncut set?)
8. @outrbnks (500E and E500 / W124) - 2 sets uncut + 1 set cut/facelift -- is this correct, I read from your post that you want THREE sets!!

This makes a total of 11 sets (or 10 sets if @outrbnks clarifies his request as either 2 or 3 sets).

Because we ALWAYS have group-buy stragglers or people whom come in WAY after the fact and want the product, if I have extra material I will make an extra set or two.

That means I'll have to order a 30' roll, which will leave enough for at least one additional set, plus fog lenses for everyone. I think I can also cut the fogs unless you specify that you DON'T want the fogs cut.

I expect that a set of two fog-light covers will add around $5.00 to the total.

So, for a rough ball-park figure, it will be around $28-30 per set of lens covers, only, shipped to the US.
For a set of lens covers + fog covers, it will be around $32-35, shipped to the US.

Additional sets of lens covers will be $23.00 per pair, but no addition postage will be charged.

No money is required now, but will be soon.

If you are "iffy" or are not serious about this group buy, please tell me now so I can take you off the list. I am taking all the risk up front onto myself by purchasing $175 worth of product with no money paid to me up front.

Again, Lamin-X is charging nearly $50 just for the lens covers. The fogs would be extra and I'd bet they would be $10-20 extra for a set. So this is a really good deal. Unfortunately I don't have the pre-facelift lens template, so those of you with pre-facelift cars are on your own, unless someone on the forum has a template they can share.

Cheers,
Gerry

 

[sheward]

I'd like TWO sets of fogs. Thank you, sir.

drew

 

[outrbnks]

Gerry,

3 total headlight sets

2 ea uncut - to fit pre-facelift Euro 500E, and
1 ea to fit facelift E420

now please add 2 ea Fog sets to the order for the 500's

tanx... O

 

[linjam]

Hi Gerry. Thanks so much for doing this. May I order:

2 sets for pre-facelift Euro lenses and
2 sets for fog lamps

Thanks much.

Jamie

 

[Ertech]

Sorry
Would like 1 set cut E500
Thanks

 

[Ntrepid]

Hey Honch -

I'll take a set of uncut 500E Euro headlamps and one set of fogs.

Thanks!


Robert

 

[gerryvz]

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2019

Here is the total of folks, as I read it from this thread:

LAMIN-X GROUP BUY
1. @gerryvz (E500) - 1 set
2. @gerryvz (560SEC) - 1 set
3. @Duh_Vinci (R129, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
4. @JC220 (C140, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
5. @sheward (500E) - 2 sets, uncut + 2 sets fogs
6. @r44raven (E500) - 1 set
7. @Ertech (E500) - 1 set
8. @outrbnks (500E and E500) - 2 sets, uncut + 1 set cut/facelift + 2 sets fogs
9. @Ntrepid (500E) - 1 set, uncut + 1 set fogs
10. @linjam (500E) - 2 sets, uncut + 2 sets fogs
11. @vatc5637 (500E) - 1 set fogs only

This makes a total of 13 sets. This means I will need to purchase a total of 45' (one 15' and one 30' roll of Lamin-X).

This will provide extra material for around 4 additional sets, if anyone wants to sign up now.

Please make any needed final adjustments now to the list above.

 

[vatc5637]

Gerry,

If it's possible to just get a set of fogs, I'm in. (headlights are already covered)

Terry

 

[Ertech]

It is E500 for me not 500E
Thanks

 

[gerryvz]

I have placed the order for the Lamin-X, for the 12-mil thickness.

After the group-buy is over, I will have enough material left over for a number of additional sets of headlight lenses and fogs, for any group-buy stragglers or for folks who see this in the future.

Once received, I will provide an update to everyone and then send out "invoices" to everyone who has RSVP'd, to confirm their order and confirm shipping address and logistics. I expect that I will send the items via USPS Priority Mail for tracking purposes for US-based folks.

I expect to receive the Lamin-X shipment from them early next week, after the US Thanksgiving holiday.

More soon, as I have it.

Cheers,
Gerry

LAMIN-X GROUP BUY
1. @gerryvz (E500) - 1 set + fogs
2. @gerryvz (560SEC) - 1 set
3. @Duh_Vinci (R129, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
4. @JC220 (C140, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
5. @sheward (500E) - 2 sets, uncut + 2 sets fogs
6. @r44raven (E500) - 1 set
7. @Ertech (E500) - 1 set
8. @outrbnks (500E and E500) - 2 sets, uncut + 1 set cut/facelift + 2 sets fogs
9. @Ntrepid (500E) - 1 set, uncut + 1 set fogs
10. @linjam (500E) - 2 sets, uncut + 2 sets fogs
11. @vatc5637 (500E) - 1 set fogs only

 

[Allgonquin]

Group buy straggler here. 500E headlight set uncut, plus 1 set fogs

 

[outrbnks]

Although I think you understand and the lenght ordered is correct, just a minor editing correction to clarify, mine should read

@outrbnks (500E x 2) - 2 sets, uncut; + (E420) -1 set cut/facelift; + 2 sets 500E fogs

 

[gerryvz]

I expect to receive the shipment of Lamin-X on Saturday, and will begin sending requests for payment at that time.

PayPal will be my preferred method of payment, but alternative arrangements can be made by special request if needed.

I expect to ship to folks on Monday. Orders made by Maryland residents can be delivered in person, with no shipping costs.

TOTAL ORDER:

• 15 sets headlight covers (4 cut, 11 uncut)
• 11 sets E500E fogs

LAMIN-X GROUP BUY
1. @gerryvz (E500) - 1 set + fogs
2. @gerryvz (560SEC) - 1 set
3. @Duh_Vinci (R129, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
4. @JC220 (C140, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
5. @sheward (500E) - 2 sets, uncut + 2 sets fogs
6. @r44raven (E500) - 1 set
7. @Ertech (E500) - 1 set
8. @outrbnks (500E x 2) - 2 sets, uncut + (E420) 1 set cut/facelift + 2 sets fogs
9. @Ntrepid (500E) - 1 set, uncut + 1 set fogs
10. @linjam (500E) - 2 sets, uncut + 2 sets fogs
11. @vatc5637 (500E) - 1 set fogs only
12. @Allgonquin (500E) - 1 set, uncit + fogs

 

[Duh_Vinci]

Thanks for the time and effort, appreciate it Gerry!

Regards,
D

 

[gerryvz]

The Lamin-X was received yesterday (Friday), a day ahead of schedule. Over this weekend, I will begin the apportioning the 500E (uncircumcised) orders from the roll, and cutting of (circumcising) those sets for the facelift car owners and for the fog-lamps.

More soon.

 

[cole67]

Gerry,

Please include me for 1 set 500E Euro headlamps and 1 set of fogs.

Thanks for your efforts!

 

[gerryvz]

TOTAL ORDER:

• 16 sets headlight covers (4 cut, 12 uncut)
• 12 sets E500E fogs

LAMIN-X GROUP BUY
1. @gerryvz (E500) - 1 set + fogs
2. @gerryvz (560SEC) - 1 set
3. @Duh_Vinci (R129, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
4. @JC220 (C140, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
5. @sheward (500E) - 2 sets, uncut + 2 sets fogs
6. @r44raven (E500) - 1 set
7. @Ertech (E500) - 1 set
8. @outrbnks (500E x 2) - 2 sets, uncut + (E420) 1 set cut/facelift + 2 sets fogs
9. @Ntrepid (500E) - 1 set, uncut + 1 set fogs
10. @linjam (500E) - 2 sets, uncut + 2 sets fogs
11. @vatc5637 (500E) - 1 set fogs only
12. @Allgonquin (500E) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
13. @cole67 (500E) - 1 set, uncut + fogs

 

[Ertech]

I will take fogs also

 

[gsxr]

I forgot to mention this earlier, but the Lamin-X film has 2 slightly different use cases:

1) Applying to new or as-new lenses, to (hopefully) keep them perfect for a very long time - short of baseball-sized rocks impacting at freeway speeds.

2) Repairing an already-damaged lens that has a pinhole, crack, or other physical damage. Applying the film over a damaged lens should waterproof it and allow it to be serviceable for a long time in the future. I did this almost two decades ago after a rock popped a hole in one of my recent Euro light installations. Doesn't look that pretty, but it's functional, and can at least let you drive the car if the lens can't easily be replaced. If a hole in the lens is left open, moisture will start to corrode the reflectors inside, possibly ruining the entire headlight assembly over time.

 

[M104-AMG]

I'll take two sets face-lifted EURO; one setup pre-face-lift EURO; two sets of fogs. All for 500E/E500.

Thanks,
neil

 

[CABRIO STEVE]

Gerry,
As a true straggler (I have to start paying more attention) I wonder if you have any remaining material.
My 500E is already covered but I have been meaning to cover the headlights on (in order of priority):
R107 280SL: 11x7
E320 cab: 13x8
C43: 12x6
Steve

 

[gerryvz]

I do, and can accommodate you for this group buy. I can provide you with film for all of your cars, and a template for your E320. You will need to do the cutting for all of them.



I started the film preparation process this weekend, and I should have things ready to ship to everyone by next Saturday or Sunday.

GOOD NEWS FOR EVERYONE: I now have a template for the "pre-facelift" Euro lenses, as well as the facelift "US" and "Euro" lenses.

What I am going to do is provide a template, traced on paper, for EVERY order. This will allow you to use the included template for your car (both facelift and pre-facelift) to measure against your lamps, and you can cut your own film using the template I provide.

So, the modififcation to things is that I am NOT going to cut the film for facelift or non-facelift cars' headlamps. I will provide original templates that you can use to do this, no matter what type of car you have. I will cut the fog-lamp lens film, however, for those who order them.

I'm traveling through Wednesday night this week, but when I get home I will be finalizing all of the orders, sending you invoices and payment information, and getting your mailing addresses. Stay tuned.



ORDER TOTAL

• 23 sets headlight covers
• 14 sets E500E fogs

LAMIN-X GROUP BUY
1. @gerryvz (E500) - 1 set + fogs
2. @gerryvz (560SEC) - 1 set
3. @Duh_Vinci (R129, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
4. @JC220 (C140, uncut/uncircumcised) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
5. @sheward (500E) - 2 sets, uncut + 2 sets fogs
6. @r44raven (E500) - 1 set
7. @Ertech (E500) - 1 set
8. @outrbnks (500E x 2) - 2 sets, uncut + (E420) 1 set cut/facelift + 2 sets fogs
9. @Ntrepid (500E) - 1 set, uncut + 1 set fogs
10. @linjam (500E) - 2 sets, uncut + 2 sets fogs
11. @vatc5637 (500E) - 1 set fogs only
12. @Allgonquin (500E) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
13. @cole67 (500E) - 1 set, uncut + fogs
14. @CABRIO STEVE - 1 set facelift + 2 additional sets per R107 and W202
15. @M104-AMG - 2 sets facelift + 1 set pre-facelift + 2 sets fogs

 

[gerryvz]

I bought a 60' roll of the Lamin-X, so I will have enough material left over (given the additional sets that late-comers have ordered) for about 2-3 more sets, if that.

 

[kwontumspeed]

Gerry, if you have extra I'll take 1 prefacelift + fogs and 1 facelift. LMK