Flat vs Clear Coat?

[Dbltag]

I recently aquired my first JD.. a 1945 JD model B. It is an older restore, very good shape. It has the classic patch around the muffler, and I was going to tackle fixing that this winter. The question that I have is how should I paint it. I like the expo look (clear coat) and would like to do the entire tractor some day, but not all right now. So if I do the hood and grill with the clear coat would the rest of the tractor look bad since it is JD green but in the flat form? Thoughts?

 

[GlenIdaho]

Why would you want to spend the money to clear coat only part of it now and maybe have to redo it later? Are you clear coating over existing paint? I'd leave it until I was ready to do the whole thing. If you have to do any repairs you won't have to worry about damage to the new clear coat. Besides, it now has the flat look of a rat rod, which has some appeal. The bottom line is this, do what makes you happy! Probably ought to include your wife too!

 

[Don-Wi]

Instead of a base coat/clear coat, use an automotive enamel that is glossy all on it's own. No need to clear.

Donovan from Wisconsin