Wing Mirrors

Ok, didnt know where to put this but here seemed a place where very one would look,

I bought K6 style mirror electronic and with indicators, i need to get them painted and would like to do it myself, any ideas and what kinda of paint would suit??

Thanks.

I once was a car paint dealer so let's see...

Well, first, you need to specify which color you want to use. Assuming you're going to use the same color of your car, it is imperative that you visit a good automotive paint dealer, such as PPG, in order to have the best color equalization of the new paint with the car's color.

You will find several issues if you want to use your car's same color. If the car is red or such tone, it'll be hard to equalize: and if it's a metallic finish (sparkly paint at sunlight) it'll be even worse if you don't find an expert color-equalizer (a man, of course). Many shops use computer-based equalization, which is based on a code that is located on a factory plate somewhere in your car. Even so, if the guy changes or uses other kind of "flake" the tone may seem right, but the sparkle will be very different causing you to see a different tone. Also, the color tone may need some perlescent flake as well as other stuff to make it match with your car. If so, acrylic enamel won't help you. You may need some base color and then apply a shine coat, which is sold separately.

If you're going to use a basic color, such as black or white, no big deal, just buy it. Acrylic enamel will call it a day since it shines by itself, no need of applying shine coats.

Depending on the size of the core of the mirror you may even use a spray paint can. If you want to do things the expert way, you need to get a small HVLP Gravity Paint gun (ain't no Gotcha) and a small air compressor which tank can hold up to 5 gallons. You may need an air pressure regulator in order to avoid excessive air pressure. It will not damage the gun, but it will cause a very big paint cloud, and a mess on the mirror's finish.

When you buy the paint, ask for recommendations on how much thinner you need to use to prepare the paint. The paint (once mixed with thinner) should not be too thick, and not too thin. A thin mixture will take too long to cover, and a thick paint will nudge.

Before you start, be sure to mask everything you dont want to paint. You need to sand with a 400 sandpaper till you get a flat (no shine) and smooth surface. Apply the primer (found on spray cans as well) and you will need to sand again with the same sandpaper sheet to leave a smooth surface. Proceed to paint. First start with a poor coat. Allow to dry and do it over and over until you get the desired finish.

This is a very basic how-to paint instructions. Refer to your nearest car paint dealer for a more comprehensive explanation on how to get an amazing finish.

Please note that if you want to paint with the same color of the car, you might get a more vivid color, although the tone seems to be the same. This is because your car's paint is contaminated by air pollution and sun burning. If this is the case, you will need to polish your entire car with some Perfect It 2 or 3 from 3M. I recommend the 3 because it removes the swirls created by washing the car and dust in the air that strikes the car while it runs.

Good luck