On Sun, 23 Jan 2005 20:17:03 -0400, David Knepper <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > What is the "secret" of repainting an identification plate with slightly > raised lettering. For example, > an R-390 or R-388 I.D., etc. plate. How to you wipe off the paint so the > lettering is devoid of paint. > > Must be a simple way of doing this.
There is: just spray the tag lightly, enough to cover it but not too thick. Better to use too little than too much. After the paint gets almost dry, simply wipe carefully across the top surface with a paper towel or clean, non-fluffy rag dampened with turpentine. Sometimes it takes a couple of tries to get it right, but it's easy enough to repeat. Might take a couple of attempts to get the density you desire. After a few tags, you'll be a pro at it. I find it one of the easier details to complete during a restoration. Whatever you do, resist the urge to use anything abrasive. Many older tags have a VERY thin plating over the actual brass metal tag, which is easily removed. Even buffing with #0000 steel wool can damage the coating and leave you with less-than-attractive results (unless you prefer brass over chrome lettering). Speaking of tags, does anyone know off the top of their head the correct colors used for the Collins emblems? Some are very red, while others have a more 'salmon' color. Some years back, I recall someone saying that the lighter color was the same color used on GM fleet vehicles in the 60s, or something of that nature. The emblem I need to repaint is the salmon color, but it would be nice to know any and all of the colors considered correct or accurate. Thanks, and good luck with the tag, Dave - ~ Todd, KA1KAQ
