A Case for Gloss

[Wayne W.]

I have always thought that midyear soft top frames were painted in gloss black. Now before y`all jump on me, I know that this paint is not of high quality and is not as glossy as finished black, but it is more glossy than most we see on the show field. I have a very nice original `66 top that I show off once in a while, and it has rather glossy paint. I know that this is only one example, but it has always made me think that we tend to paint them too flat. I am now disassembling an original `65 top and have made series of pictures to document its construction. It also has a rather glossy black frame. I will offer the pictures and you draw your own conclusions.
The aluminum rear bow appears to have been finished separately and is definitely gloss black.

The bows appear to be done in a different finish but still show considerable gloss. Here are pictures of the bows.
　


　

[Frank P.]

Re: A Case for Gloss

The level of gloss is directly related to how "wet" or "dry" it was applied. It is possible to go from very gloss to semi-flat due to the painter.

[Wayne W.]

Re: A Case for Gloss

The level of gloss is directly related to how "wet" or "dry" it was applied. It is possible to go from very gloss to semi-flat due to the painter.

Frank, I have painted for 35 years. I agree to a minor extent that a very dry application will be different looking than a wet one, but it don't change the gloss that much. A gloss paint does not look like one with a lot flatter in it, no matter how you apply it.

[Wayne W.]

Re: A Case for Gloss

Wow, Only one comment. I guess you all agree.

[Michael H.]

Re: A Case for Gloss

I agree. The rear bow is always higher gloss than the rest of the assembly. I don't know why though.

[Wayne W.]

Re: A Case for Gloss

I agree. The rear bow is always higher gloss than the rest of the assembly. I don't know why though.

The rear bow is obviously painted at a different time. It is aluminum and would require a different application anyway. When you remove the bow you see paint under the brackets etc.