It took a surprisingly long time to prepare the shield for etch priming this afternoon. These things are something I only want to do once, so there has been a lot of sanding and some filing to ensure the upper shield doesnt scrape any paint off, once reinstalled.
The etch went on very smoothly. I was surprised, actually. I have found some etches in past to be a bit fussy with application. Too light, you've made sandpaper. Too heavy a coat, and it all slides down...but not evenly.
I used a Protec etch that I have only used previously in spray cans, and I'm impressed with it. Having made the effort to actually ask for the MSDS, I left it inside this morning, and was thoroughly grubby and sweaty by the time I remembered it. Rightly or wrongly, I decided to do without it. All I wanted to know was thinning ratio, and I winged it. Still couldn't say what ratio is. Just kept pouring thinners into the pot until it felt 'right'.
Since getting home last night, I haven't had a chance to shop for more bolts to make my fake rivets, so I'll get them while paint dries tomorrow. There is potentially hours in getting the bolts to my specifications, so nothing else will go onto the shield at this stage. I didn't take any photos of the bolts I have put on so far, but will do that tomorrow. Not yet had one that turned while being tightened, though that will surely happen now that I have made this comment! I'm pleased with how they appear from the angry side of the shield. Just look like bolts from the other side.
Tomorrow, it gets greener.