Okaaay! We haven’t had enough sun to test the PLA filament for UV affects. However For heat affect I can tell you it is very durable. I had this next to a space heater and also used a hair dryer to dry the paint. Do not use any other paint than acrylic for plastic. As you can see the paint (maroon) I used for Stovebolt ran, and the blue crinkled when I applied the clear coat. I believe the acrylic paint and clear coat will sufficiently protect from sun UV affects. Let me know if you are interested by PM.
Edit: The new toppers are $20. The PLA filament is not as expensive as the PETG. We will replace, for no charge, any that get broken or stolen.
Last edited by PaPa Joe; Mon Dec 19 2022 01:28 PM. Reason: Added second photo.
Do not use any other paint than acrylic for plastic. As you can see the paint (maroon) I used for Stovebolt ran, and the blue crinkled when I applied the clear coat.
I printed a radio blank off plate for my ‘52 made of PLA and I painted it buildable primer and Ace Premium spray paint. I had no issues with it affecting the PLA.
Phil Moderator, The Engine Shop, Interiors and Project Journals
It wasn’t the paint affecting the PLA that was the problem. It was the coats of clear seal that affected the paint I used. Hobby Lobby model paint crinkled and ran. The known problem with PLA filament for outdoor use is that UV rays from direct sunlight will will cause it to warp. I am hoping the clear seal coat will protect it from the UV affects of constant sun exposure. We used PETG filament before however it is harder on my grandson’s 3D printer. (Had to replace the nozzle after a couple printings.) It’s not a high dollar top of the line printer. The toppers were something my grandson wanted to do for the Southern Stovebolters. They have been great at making him a part of the gang at our outings.
Just a quick note… I think I posted this before, but wanted to be sure… To all those who have purchased toppers and emblems from us, they have a lifetime warranty. If your topper/emblem gets damaged or warped for any reason we will replace it free.
I did a thing. My license plate topper has been sitting on the shelf ever sInce I painted the thing. Today I made a thin metal backing plate which I epoxied to the back of the topper to add stiffness so it would be less likely to break. I then proudly mounted it to my Cowboy Cadillac front license plate (won’t fit in the back). Show your off! I dare ya!
