How to Install Louvered Side Window Covers

The '05-'08 Mustang is a sure-fire hit among enthusiasts, so much so that it's almost impossible to own one without another one just like it showing up down the street. Fortunately, there are a myriad of products available for dressing up a new Mustang. Among the most popular -and easiest to install - are the covers for the C-pillar side windows on '05-'08 coupes.

Made from molded urethane, the Classic Design Concepts' louvered C-pillar covers are delivered ready to paint to match the car's exterior color. Double-sticky 3M acrylic foam tape, along with isopropyl alcohol prep packages and Adhesion Promoter, is also included.

Classic Design Concepts offers the covers in both louvered and non-louvered versions. We prefer the louvers for both their aesthetic appearance and because they provide some rearward visibility in situations when you're pulling into traffic from an angle.

The CDC covers are made from molded urethane, and as such they must be painted to match the Mustang's exterior color by an automotive paint professional. From there, installation is about as easy as it gets. The covers are supplied with 3M acrylic foam tape, isopropyl alcohol packages for cleaning, and Adhesion Promoter to properly bond the tape to the urethane. All you'll need is 80-120 grit sandpaper and masking tape for positioning the covers on the car.

Unless you've got a fully equipped paint shop in your back yard, you'll need to have the covers painted by a professional automotive paint shop. Terry Thompson at Thompson's Auto Body in Lakeland, Florida, painted our louvered covers to match the black exterior on Jennifer Pipers '06 Pony Edition Mustang. Allowing for prep, painting, and drying, the covers were ready in 24 hours.	With the covers painted and ready to install, lay them face down on a soft cloth to prevent scratching the fresh paint. Prepare the backside for tape installation by sanding the edges with 80-120 grit sandpaper, then cleaning with the supplied alcohol swabs.	Next, apply the supplied Adhesion Promoter to the area that will taped. Allow 30-45 seconds for the Promoter to dry.
Apply the tape to the outside edges of the cover.	Use a razor blade to trim the tape at the corners. Leave at 1/2-inch gap at the bottom corners to allow for water drainage.	Clean the window glass, then thoroughly clean the painted area where the covers attach. Wipe with isopropyl alcohol to remove all wax.
Use the locating tab at the rear of cover to align the scoop over the side window - it fits between the glass and sheetmetal. Position the cover to match the body line, then use masking tape at the corners to mark the position.	Peel the red backing off the bonding tape.	Using the masking tape as a guide, position the cover and press the edges firmly to set the bonding tape. About 60% of the bonding strength is achieved immediately. Full bonding strength is achieved in 72 hours.