So I ordered a plain white shift **** and had Doug Whalen work his magic on it for me and engrave the MCS 6-speed shift pattern onto it.

But as you can see, its really hard to see the shift pattern (which I knew it would be) so I am looking for some advice on how to paint or color in the shift pattern in black. Obviously I would need something that would stick to a very glossy surface and also something that will stand up to grease, oil, salt, repeated use of the hands, etc. without smearing or fading.

If someone could also give some pointers on technique and how to get it done so it looks professional that would be greatly appreciated too.

Thanks,
Brian

 

Toothpick or sewing needle to slowly paint in the lines. If you use an ceramic paint, it should hold up for a while. It'll make a hard resin like finish. If you don't like this, just leave it as is.

 

Wipe it down with isopropyl alcohol.

Tape up most of the bottom/ side of the **** leaving the area around the pattern exposed.

Spray it with something like roll bar chassis paint (something that's self priming).

Then when it starts to tack off use Orange based goo remover to carefully wipe of most of the excess avoiding the engraved bits as much as possible.

Once it has dried completely (a couple of days) use 2000 grit wet and dry sandpaper on a firm foam block and gently work it over the **** untill you have all the black off the **** except for the pattern. Do this with water and use a circular motion so you don't put any flat spots on it.

Wipe it off and you will see it is a bit dull, but very smooth.

Now take some cutting compound and buff the crap out of it. It will be easier to do this on the car and just use a soft cloth, like you are polishing a shoe.

Keep going till it's mirror finish then put some wax on it and repeat.

I have done it before and it works a treat. Looks very professional.

Have fun