Aftermarket Bolt-Ons On A 1997 Chevy Tahoe - Smooth Essentials

7.Black is one of the most thermally conductive colors. So when the lights are on, the black area in the lamp bezel will become hot, eventually making it brittle and crack. This is common with these trucks. Make sure you don't needlessly overtighten the screws; this will only enhance the damage from brittle plastic.

8.Plastic also pits easily, so replacing it even with stock-style components at this point would only help the look - but what do you expect after 120,000 miles?

9.The stock headlamp (left) uses texture on the glass to defuse the headlamp light and project the light forward. The aftermarket component (right) uses the lens to capture and project the lamp light, but it does this with fewer diffusers. This allows the lens to be clear, so you can see the chrome under the lens. It projects a bit brighter than the stock unit because it has a small light refractor that covers the front of the bulb and bounces the light back into the chrome cup of the lens assembly, enhancing the light intensity.

10.The same-style light diffuser is used on the stock (lower) marker and turn signal assembly. The stock assembly also has a black outer ring on the bezel that adds unwanted contrast with the lens and chrome grille. The aftermarket lens is much like the new headlight assembly. Plus, it has a chrome ring that will blend into the chrome grille, providing a smoother look.

11.Stock (top) orange reflectors and turn signals wrap around the edge of the grille shell, adding contrast to the grille segment. The (lower) new lamp is clear like the headlamp and turn signal. Again, this eliminates the contrast and provides a smooth continuity over the grille segment.

12.Cutting out the stock grille area to make room for the aftermarket components is a must when it comes to installing a grille. Even if your grille inserts don't require it, it's a good idea to remove the extra texture from the background to allow the grille insert to do its job without compromise.

13.Our grille area was gray. We wanted a really smooth look, so we taped off the grille area and prepped it for paint. Following the lines isn't hard, although you will need some tape that is flexible and will contour to the grille shell bezel lines.

14.In the areas where we couldn't get the tape to bend around the tight corners, we simply cut out the line. This left us a perfectly exposed grille area to paint. We finished our sanding and prep work to prepare for the rattle can.

15.We didn't want dirt to stick to flat paint, but we didn't want a high gloss to contrast the black background, so we used semi-gloss to finish the job. When it comes to installing components, a little thought and time can make a huge difference in the look.

16.Replacing the stock Chevy badge with one that fits into the theme will prevent the eye from fixating on the badge. Our chrome grille shell will flow better with a chrome badge to smooth over the contrast. Although it won't eliminate the badge bulge in the grille, it will reduce its effect and make it cool with a custom touch.

17.After removing all the components, we were left with a naked front clip. Installation of the headlamps with the clip in this state made adjustment of the headlights easy. Before disassembly, we marked the garage door with tape where the headlights (high and low beam) shined. After installing the new headlights, we adjusted the new lights to match.

18.With all the clear and chrome up front, leaving the stock turn signals and marker lights amber wasn't going to fly. We stopped by our local Auto Zone and picked up a set of clear 2357 bulbs to replace the stock units.

19.Auto Zone also has bulb grease at the counter. This stuff is great in preventing moisture from corroding the light fixture. When the fixture becomes corroded, it becomes less electrically conductive. The high resistance in electricity reduces bulb efficiency and increases heat through the wires, fixture, and bulbs. This will bring sudden death to both the fixture and bulb.

20.The new marker lamp fixtures come with stainless screws. This helps to blend in with the chrome. You won't even see the fasteners. Plus they won't corrode or get chalky.