DIY - All Red Taillights

[norcal325]

And then you're left with an obviously noticeable line where the vinyl is applied, not to mention a ridge between the height difference of the vinyl, where dirt and grime will collect and eventually get underneath. No thanks, I'll stick to painting. :up:

actually no. ive had it on there for at least 6 months. (i would know, im doing it) there isnt anything noticeable about it. and no there is no dirt anywhere in on or around to give an unwanted look. height difference? lol its paper thin
but at the same time, just throwing it out there

[Hon2BMW]

I've had bad experiences with testors and tamiya model paints in the past, they work fine for plastic models, but just aren't tuff enough to be exposed to the elements for very long.

I actually just did mine and used the red color from duplicolors metal cast line. The paints are meant to go over a chrome base, so they're all transparent colors. its meant for engine parts and trim so I figured it would probably hold up better, beautiful finish as well with no clear coat. I'll post pics later.

[Dave]

I've had bad experiences with testors and tamiya model paints in the past, they work fine for plastic models, but just aren't tuff enough to be exposed to the elements for very long.

I actually just did mine and used the red color from duplicolors metal cast line. The paints are meant to go over a chrome base, so they're all transparent colors. its meant for engine parts and trim so I figured it would probably hold up better, beautiful finish as well with no clear coat. I'll post pics later.

Got any pics?

[Hon2BMW]

Got any pics?

[One21Two]

Where to get??

Went to Home Depot, Autozone, Kragen and could not find any testors paint. Everyone says to go to a hobby/model store. What about the paint places that sell only paint? you guys think they would have the testors? Where did all of you get yours? thnx in advance.

[Raxe]

Found mine at Michaels, the craft store.

[FL318is]

And here is yet another link.

http://www.m42club.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3629

[Hon2BMW]

Went to Home Depot, Autozone, Kragen and could not find any testors paint. Everyone says to go to a hobby/model store. What about the paint places that sell only paint? you guys think they would have the testors? Where did all of you get yours? thnx in advance.

Pepboys and autozone should have the metalcast paint, whether its in red is the question. Micheal's should have transparent red krylon stained glass paint, just ask them for it.

BOTH of those are MUCH better than the testors paint. Testors paint is meant for plastic models that where never meant to see water or the elements unless its to put on decals. I've been building models and spray painting parts for full size cars since I was 8, and I would never put model paint on a full size car, its just asking for trouble.

[bmp]

Hon2bmw, why is your tail lights so glossy while the other ones look so dull. Is that just the light affecting the picture or did you do something to those lights?

[damith]

Pepboys and autozone should have the metalcast paint, .

Auto Zone is the place to go for Duplicolor. I agree. BTW Hon@BMW, u have a GREAT looking bronzit.

[Spec]

Duplicolor Metalcast, two coats of clearcoat, then two coats of enamel over everything:

[jflip2002]

I wonder if this works with black paint to give em a smoked look.....

[Lurker27]

Jflip: It does. VHT Nightshade is the paint you want for that.

[jflip2002]

Oh, so theres an actual paint for that. Good thing I didnt go try the testors black lol.

[Jand3rson]

BOTH of those are MUCH better than the testors paint. Testors paint is meant for plastic models that where never meant to see water or the elements unless its to put on decals. I've been building models and spray painting parts for full size cars since I was 8, and I would never put model paint on a full size car, its just asking for trouble.

That's why, and this has been gone over several times, you use an automotive grade clearcoat on the tails after painting them. Mine were done almost 2 years ago, and the red paint underneath has not shown even the slightest inkling of damage from exposure to the elements.