Here is my situation, I am re-painting the hood only of a 67SS Maderia Maroon Metallic. Paint is Lacquer. The rest of the car was Cleared. Does clear coat tend to lighten a color....or make it appear darker? The other panels on the car were painted several years ago, and I'm sure some fading has taken place.

Comments, Suggestions?

Thanks very much, rb6667

I would clear the hood since the rest of the car is cleared. If you think there will be a color match problem you should blend the color into the tops of the fenders and clear the rest of the fenders. To much clear will darken a color. Its like looking at the deep end of a swimming pool, it appears darker.

Blackrose 90, Thankyou for your advise, I'm getting ready to paint in the next few weeks. I'll see how the hood looks with a clear coat, and if I'm not happy with it, blend on the fenders as you suggested.

Thanks again, rb6667

rb..can you post some pics of the car? my buddy's car is supposed to be madeira maroon metallic, and he wanted to see some pics of one recently painted that color.

Since your painting with metallics, I don't think you even have the option of leaving the clear off. You will need the clear for the color sanding and buffing. Without it you will be sanding a metallic paint and cutting into the silver flakes that will leave silver steaks and blemishes.

Thanks Guys, I thought I would have to clear it. I'll see if I can post some pictures after it's painted. Thanks again, rb6667