Re: [Leica] M4-P black chrome finish problems

["steve lehuray" <icommag@toad.net>]

That sounds like a better way to do it.
Steve
Annapolis

- ----------
>From: Disfromage@aol.com
>To: leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us
>Subject: Re:  [Leica] M4-P black chrome finish problems
>Date: Tue, Feb 22, 2000, 4:17 PM
>

>
> In a message dated 2/21/00 3:11:53 PM, you wrote:
>
> << If I would attempt to paint it black, how could I do this? What materials
> should I use, how do I remove the top plate and dials?  Has anyone done
> this, any picture to show the results.>>
>
> I'd like to jump in here with my experience repainting a scruffy chrome M3 in
> black enamel.  I think it is mandatory to remove the top plate in order to
> paint it properly.  It is not terribly difficult to do, but does require some
> special tools that are available from Fargo Enterprises (
> www.micro-tools.com).  I would not use an abrasive to remove the black
> chrome-it is too easy to put in deep scratches or change the contours of the
> metal.  I took all the plated parts to a plating shop which used a tank of
> mystery stuff to remove the chrome.  It took them all of about 1 minute.
> Removing the chrome is important as paint will not adhere to it well.  I then
> thoroughly cleaned the metal with detergent and a final wash  with lacquer
> thinner rubbed down with very fine (0000) steel wool.  I would not consider
> applying any coating to your camera with a brush.  What you want is the
> thinnest possible layer of paint to do the job without looking plasticky.
> Any texture from a brush will not look good.  I don't think you want your
> camera to look like Tom A's pink Jeep!  It is also very easy to fill in any
> engraving if the paint is too thick.  I sprayed on 3 coats of baking enamel,
> which I baked in a toaster oven for about 30 minutes at 300 degrees F.  The
> engraving was then filled with a lacquer stick from Fargo.  If anyone wants
> more information please contact me off list.
>
> Richard Wasserman
>