CLK DTM 2000 questions

Hey, I just got my DTM 2000 kit from Tamiya, and I just have a few questions about it. For one, do I really need to paint the body before I apply the decals to it? And when I clear, do I clear over the decals? Or put the decals over the clear? Also, with the photoetched parts I bought, what is the best way to attach those? And also, should I paint parts that I'm going to use the templated carbon-fiber decals on, like the bottom of the car?

Thanks in advance.

--Ben--

Yes the body needs to be painted. I have seen very few people pull off an unpainted/polished plastic body with good results.
The clear goes overtop of the decals, just make sure you use a clear that is compatible with the decals, try doing a search or check the FAQ as this should have been answered several times.
The photo-etching is generally attached with CA (superglue) or epoxy.
Best to paint the parts black for when you will be putting on CF decals.
Hope this helps, go read through the FAQ as they are very helpfull.

Hi Delta,

You've spent some good money on the kit by the looks of things, by buying PE parts, and CF decal. Rather take some time about it, and do a nice job that you'll be happy with.

The body is currently just injection-molded plastic. Although it might look OK, this will have blemishes and marks across it where the different plastic streams have met up. Also, the plastic is very thin, so, when you put the kit together, anything dark inside will be quite visible through the kit.

Rather take some time, and put a good finish on the body by painting. Not sure how many kits you've made, but you'd be best off by getting a can of hobby paint, or using an airbrush for the best finish.

You can put the decals straight onto this coat of paint (after it's dried suitably of course), or you can clear before the decals, which may give you a smoother surface for the decals if you wish. After the decals though, it's always a good idea to 'seal' them with another coat of clear, however, as mike mentioned, you need to ensure this won't affect the decals. If you don't seal them, over time they may yellow slightly, which could be prevented.

Main thing though... enjoy the kit, take your time, and finsh with a good result. Oh, and also take lots of pics and keep a WIP thread up to date... ;-)

Good luck with it

Sounds like you are trying to start everything all at once in a big hurry. It might be a good idea to slow down and start with something simpler. Like just concentrate on painting a kit and leaving the PE and carbon fibre decals until your next build. Nothing wrong with jumping in with both feet but it's a slow process to get familiar with all the different techniques involved and might be a bit discouraging if something goes wrong (and it always does. :lol:).