I’m getting my bumpers, lower panels repainted, and I believe the lower body panels are painted and then clear with a semi-gloss? Has anybody had your panels repainted and had them clear coated with the regular gloss, I thought it might blend better on the car?

I noticed in Stu Ritter MB E-Class Owner's Bible that he listed MB part no's. for the base paint, clear coat, hardener, stating that these MB products should be used when painting the plastic parts, any thoughts about not using MB paint products?
Thanks timreid

__________________
timreid
1992 400E
euro lights
500E sway bars
210 16in wheels

The lower body cladding can be painted with non-MB automotive paint. The paint can be pro shop tinted to match the upper and should have a flex additive mixed in so that it will resist chipping.

Thanks MTI, Have you ever seen an MB with the lower body panels tinted to match the upper body, appreciate your opinion whether you like the car painted this way? enjoy your drive, timreid

__________________
timreid
1992 400E
euro lights
500E sway bars
210 16in wheels

The monotone look is probably best described as more aggressive looking as opposed to the refined two-tone banker appearance that OEM Mercedes was going for. Matching the bumper covers, the mirror housing and the lower body cladding will have the visual illusion of making the car look a bit more squat since you won't have the longitudinal contrast line across the side. As seen below, you can paint pretty much everything to match the body color: