Headlight lens coating

[mike_lawyer]

I brought this up in the Ngineering LED thread, but thought I would start a separate thread.  I am constructing a bunch of steam loco headlights using small LEDS.  I mounted the LEDs using Microscale Kristal Clear, but Kristal Clear does not sufficiently diffuse the light.  Is there a coating out there that I could use to fill the headlight casing that would be somewhat frosted or opaque?  Any suggestions would be welcome.  Thanks!

[wvgca]

Tamiya translucent yellow or amber -might- work, it will also give a more realistic color ..

[thomasjmdavis]

You might also try acrylic flat clear- ala Model Master clear acrylic.  Model Master also makes several clears (amber, green, red, blue- and there might be others) which can be mixed with the clear flat to "tint" if you want to change the color a bit.

[carlso]

Mike,

I have used Aileens tacky glue. Use a toothpick or match stick to apply a small amount and did this 2 or 3 times. You might test on one headlight to try it. I have also used Bondic, no talc powder.

Carl

[Joetrain59]

I just used .060" fiber optic strand. Heated the end to get the "swelling", and cut it off right behind that. Used that in the headlight casting, with led behind it.
 Joe D

[peteski]

LOL!
Well Mike, see https://www.therailwire.net/forum/index.php?topic=48805.msg649374#msg649374   and the following posts.

[mike_lawyer]

I picked up some of the Aileen's tacky glue today, and I really like the results.  It dries clear, but really helps to diffuse the light.  I probably will add another coat, but so far I am liking the results.

[daniel_leavitt2000]

White glue, then some Testor's Canopy glue on top to give it a shiny look. This should give the look of frosted glass.

[woodone]

Try som Bondic light activated plastic. Fill casting with the liquid-cure with UV light.

[wazzou]

Gallery Glass by Plaid available at Michael's or Hobby Lobby.