Who knows how to paint?

[BigFas]

Got some parts which I need spraying. As they were fairly cheap, I'm happy to do these myself. But no clue as to the process. I need an transparent finish as they are a set of rear-lights that I want to black out, so no need for primer or anything like that.

I'm planning on getting some of that rear light tinting spray from Halfords, but I want a shiny finish so want to use clearcoat. I understand I need to use wet and dry paper etc, but don't know the process.

Anyone?

[paulm3]

use the tinting spray from halfords, then u could laquer it to make em more shiny.
lots of fine coats are better and leave to dry between. so u dont get orange peel or running in the paint. do it in a non-windy place like ur garage or something too. :)

or take ur rear lights out and put ur missus tights over em!!! he he...

[gringosteve]

Not sure how the black out paint works...does it need the surface to be keyed first?

When normally spraying plastics i do the following

1) lightly sand the area with wet 800 grit paper <-- dont think u need this part

2) Clean area with Degreaser/Panel Wipe

3) Prepare plastic with clear plastic primer

4) Spray the paint in very light coats..

But u are best reading the instructions that come with the stuff ur gonna use.

[benny boy]

thats right steve but i would use what they call fray scotch brite by 3m its grey and looks like this

[CA Automotive UK]

to get it 100% right use a very diluted mix of black paint if you have access to a paint gun .

Once dry after about 4 light coats , t cut and polish .

This gives a better and longer lasting finish than the acrylic tint sprays

If you DO want to use the tint spray , then :

1. yes use a VERY fine scotch pad to slightly key the lights , then apply about 8 ...( yes eight , SEE NEXT POINT AS TO WHY ) ...light but even coats , allow to fully dry between coats .

2. when fully dry , use 1000 grade wet and dry paper , with water, to start flatting off ; before going to far wire up the lights in a dark room and activate all the lights , this will show up any localised "patches " as well as overall brightness , which you can then adjust to your personal taste by re apply the wet and dry process as far as required . That way when the lights are used , the spread and brightness is even like oem . The 8 or so coats you have applied allow you make a couple of errors and still be able to flat back successfully :)

3. finally T cut and polish them , use a drill / grinder lambswool type small mop if possible.

Fas I have all this stuff at mine , if you fancy a trip down I will be glad to help you do it one day that suits you ...all you pay for is materials

good luck