smhardesty Posted February 8, 2017 Posted February 8, 2017 I've seen several websites that offer wheels that are what I am calling "unfinished". Bear with me on this since I'm just getting back in the hobby after about 50 years. I'm looking for sources for wheels and tires for kits I have I'll be building sometime down the road. I just now found a thread on this forum about aftermarket wheels and most of the wheels in the thread started as "unfinished". So how are those wheels finished to look like mags? I don't have an airbrush. All my painting will be done either by rattle can or good, old brush (for small parts). Is there a paint I can buy either in a rattle can or small bottle that will make these wheels look like mags?
Dann Tier Posted February 8, 2017 Posted February 8, 2017 I've seen several websites that offer wheels that are what I am calling "unfinished". Bear with me on this since I'm just getting back in the hobby after about 50 years. I'm looking for sources for wheels and tires for kits I have I'll be building sometime down the road. I just now found a thread on this forum about aftermarket wheels and most of the wheels in the thread started as "unfinished". So how are those wheels finished to look like mags? I don't have an airbrush. All my painting will be done either by rattle can or good, old brush (for small parts). Is there a paint I can buy either in a rattle can or small bottle that will make these wheels look like mags?Hi, if you are looking for a realistic chrome finish out of a can, Spaz Stix Ultimate Mirror Chrome over gloss black Tamiya spray paint looks killer!
FordRodnKustom Posted February 8, 2017 Posted February 8, 2017 Testor's makes a line of "metalizer" sprays that can duplicate the finish of most non chrome mag wheels. They also make some of these shades in bottles you can use to brush on to small areas. I have been using these for years and am pleased with the results. They are also good for some engine, exhaust and suspension components. Hope this helps. good luck and welcome back to the hobby!
crazyjim Posted February 8, 2017 Posted February 8, 2017 Get the new Molotow chrome pens for the rim and use Model Master Jet Exhaust for the spokes.Molotow chrome also comes in a rattle can but you need to get it from Germany.
stitchdup Posted February 8, 2017 Posted February 8, 2017 I've been getting pretty good results with the molotowe chrome marker pens, only the carbs and valve covers are kit chrome on this engine, all the rest is done with chrome the pens, and the chassis and suspension all with the pens
JollySipper Posted February 9, 2017 Posted February 9, 2017 There's some good info in this thread about getting the Mag finish...........
smhardesty Posted February 9, 2017 Author Posted February 9, 2017 WOW! You guys just provided me with LOTS of great info. I've managed to find sources for every product you mentioned. I think I'll probably try out most, if not all of the products as I go along. I expect I'll find at least one method that I get along with.stitchdup, that is really impressive. I'll be wanting to try those chrome pens that you and crazyjim both suggested.Thanks to each of you guys for your suggestions. I just need to get some of the products you mentioned on order. All of us find different ways that work best for us. I think I need to try all your suggestions before I decide what I'm best able to do. Outstanding, guys!
stitchdup Posted February 9, 2017 Posted February 9, 2017 You might find the chrome pens and paint at a grafitti store, I believe that's what they were made for originally, I got mine from one in the UK and they had a lot of different size tips for them (I need to get some 1/2mm to touch up the exhaust,lol) They dont hold up too well to handling but I've been told future doesn't mar the shine but I havent picked any up yet
cowboy rich Posted February 9, 2017 Posted February 9, 2017 Page 6 of this same section there are 2 topics about spaz stix you may find helpful, I've never used it however. I use alclad but that needs an airbrush.
crazyjim Posted February 9, 2017 Posted February 9, 2017 I got the Molotow chrome pens from Art Primo. They had free shipping.
StevenGuthmiller Posted February 9, 2017 Posted February 9, 2017 Or, if you want a "true" chrome finish, you can always send your wheels out to one of the companies that rechrome kit parts like "Kustom Khrome" or "Chrome Tech".But if it's just wheels, one of the other suggestions, such as "Spaz Stix" will be less time consuming & more economical. Steve
crazyjim Posted February 9, 2017 Posted February 9, 2017 Don't forget Little Motor Kar for chrome plating.
crazyjim Posted February 9, 2017 Posted February 9, 2017 Don't forget Little Motor Kar for chrome plating.
StevenGuthmiller Posted February 9, 2017 Posted February 9, 2017 Don't forget Little Motor Kar for chrome plating.Yes, there is LMK as well.I rarely mention them as I've never tried them, so I feel like I should refrain from endorsing a product that I have not tried.Depending on the type of wheel that you are using Steve, you may be better off without a true chrome finish anyway.If. You're using a "magnesium" type wheel, one of the Testors "Metalizer" spray paints will give you a very nice result. Steve
smhardesty Posted February 10, 2017 Author Posted February 10, 2017 A couple of you guys have made mention of using "one of" the metalizer spray paints. Which one?
Dodge Driver Posted February 10, 2017 Posted February 10, 2017 (edited) A couple of you guys have made mention of using "one of" the metalizer spray paints. Which one?In spray cans, Model Master Metalizer colors are; Stainless Steel, Aluminum Plate, Magnesium, and Gunmetal. I've used all four finishes and have had excellent results. Each type replicates the named metal finish. I use Aluminum Plate to duplicate satin finish aluminum wheels. Metalizer spray paints are designed to be lightly buffed to bring out a metallic sheen on the painted parts. Edited February 10, 2017 by Dodge Driver
StevenGuthmiller Posted February 10, 2017 Posted February 10, 2017 (edited) In spray cans, Model Master Metalizer colors are; Stainless Steel, Aluminum Plate, Magnesium, and Gunmetal. I've used all four finishes and have had excellent results. Each type replicates the named metal finish. I use Aluminum Plate to duplicate satin finish aluminum wheels. Metalizer spray paints are designed to be lightly buffed to bring out a metallic sheen on the painted parts. What he said! I usually try to keep a can of "Aluminum Plate" & a can of "Stainless Steel" on hand. They work very well for things like exhaust pipes & mufflers. Steve Edited February 10, 2017 by StevenGuthmiller
gtx6970 Posted February 10, 2017 Posted February 10, 2017 (edited) Not sure how well you can see it. But the interior tins on this one is Duplicolor chrome straight out of the can over grey primer. Gives it sort of a polished aluminum look to it Edited February 10, 2017 by gtx6970
smhardesty Posted February 10, 2017 Author Posted February 10, 2017 Bill,I can see it well enough to see that it seems very smooth and reflects light/color a bit. Did you have to polish it at all, or is that truly "straight out of the can"?
gtx6970 Posted February 11, 2017 Posted February 11, 2017 No polish - no clear. Just sprayed the grey primer. Sanded it with a scrotchbrite pad and then topcoat it with the "chrome"
smhardesty Posted February 11, 2017 Author Posted February 11, 2017 Cool. I'll be adding that method to my list of things to try. A fella can never have too many tools and techniques at his disposal.
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