How do I paint plastic tail lights?

My5ABaby · 03-30-08, 02:01

Hi all,

My 1986 RX-7 is in desperate need of some TLC. My next project is repainting the tail lights. They were originally black and have since faded to anything between black and light gray.

Anyways, how would I go about painting them?

jshillin · 03-31-08, 04:28

Just like anything else, clean them, scuff & spray.

My5ABaby · 03-31-08, 05:49

Quote:

Originally Posted by jshillin

Just like anything else, clean them, scuff & spray.

Will any automotive/exterior paint work?

If so, apparently I made this out to be harder than it is.

Luster · 03-31-08, 06:56

Use this... it's transluscent so light will show through...

Click here for NIGHT_SHADES...

My5ABaby · 03-31-08, 07:11

I'm not looking to tint them. I think it looks like *** and it's illegal. However, in all honesty, I appreciate the reply.

I'm just looking to repaint the black part.

Luster · 03-31-08, 07:30

Sorry, I misunderstood the post.

You can mask off the parts you don't want painted, lightly sand the "black" parts and re-spray with any good spray paint. I use Dupli-color paint available at Advance Auto Parts.

Make sure it's pretty warm when you apply the paint (over 60 degrees) and apply in several THIN layers rather than one thick layer.

Thin layers prevent fish-eye, orange-peel and runs.

You might want to try Dupli-color "Trim Black". It's a satin finish rather than high gloss. Looks more like original.

If they were originally gloss black, use Duplicolor Gloss black.

My5ABaby · 03-31-08, 08:05

Thanks.

I've heard of "baking" the paint. Is that something I want to do?

I'm looking for a glossy finish and I'll probably clearcoat them.

Luster · 03-31-08, 08:11

You don't need to bake the finish. Just let it cure naturally. Make sure you allow ample drying time between coats.

My5ABaby · 03-31-08, 08:21

Alright, sounds good.

My5ABaby · 03-31-08, 08:24

Would I use "Duplicolor Plastic Primer" before the black or just go straight to the color?

"Help protect against weather conditions and corrosion with Dupli-Color® Adhesion Promoter. It improves adhesion on all paints and acts like a clear primer. Ideal for interior and exterior surfaces, like plastic, chrome or other metal surfaces."

bad venge · 04-01-08, 07:02

I'd use the adhesion promoter , but do not clearcoat some of the clears will eat the lenses or turn them white ....