Editing Z31/Illuminated300zxbar php (section)

== Z31 1984-1986 Tail Lamp Bar Illumination Modification ==

Illuminating your 300ZX panel is a simple and inexpensive modification you can do the make your Z stand out. The following is a write up that was done some time ago.

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/ilumated%20300zx%20bar/1.jpg

==== Items needed ====

* Tools to remove the rear panel (screwdrivers, trim tools, etc.)
* 300mm LED strip light kit (white, waterproof, 12V, with wiring harness)
* Thin sheet aluminum or steel for mounting
* Glue and/or small screws
* Can of Night Shades or similar spray-on tinting
* Plastic light diffuser or LED-compatible cover
* Wire connectors and heat shrink tubing (for safe LED wiring)

==== Process ====

* Remove the rear trim and undo the 4 screws holding the rear panel on.
* Unplug the number plate lights and remove the panel.
* Carefully pry apart the backing from the red plastic section (use trim tools or a flat screwdriver—be gentle to avoid breaking tabs).
* Trim or cut away some of the backing so you can see the "300ZX" writing; it's normal to remove the two inner screw bosses here.
* Test-fit your LED strip—trim the backing as needed so the LED strip will fit evenly behind the lettering.
* Sand the back of the "300ZX" lettering to allow more light to pass through.
* Tint the back of the lettering (using Night Shades or similar) so the letters still look black during the day.
* Reassemble the two panel pieces.
* Cut a plastic light diffuser or LED-compatible cover to size and fit it between the panel and the LED strip to create even light distribution.
* Secure the LED strip to the panel backing using glue or screws and an aluminum mounting plate for stability. Make sure the strip is straight and centered for best results.
* If the LED strip is fragile, handle it with care; replace if necessary.
* Make a thin aluminum reflector panel to improve light output and create a cleaner appearance.
* Glue or screw the aluminum reflector in place.
* Wire the LED strip into the existing number plate light wiring. For easy removal, add a waterproof plug connector.
* Reinstall the rear panel and replace the interior trim. Confirm everything is secure and test the new lighting.

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/ilumated%20300zx%20bar/Rearlicense300ZX1.jpg

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/ilumated%20300zx%20bar/Rearlicense300ZX2.jpg

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/ilumated%20300zx%20bar/Rearlicense300ZX3.jpg

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/ilumated%20300zx%20bar/Rearlicense300ZX5.jpg

=== Sources Used ===

[[Z31/z31fsm php|1984-1988 Nissan 300ZX Factory Service Manual]]
* Writen by: Darren Kemp

[[Category:Imported from Xenonzcar]]