coloring bulbs

I always used just a flat spray paint.  Don't get carried away with a heavy coat.  LEDs, no idea

For Red: Tamiya X-27 "Clear Red"

For Green: Tamiya X-25 "Clear Green"

If you're only looking to tint the bulbs a certain color, Tamiya makes a line of "clear" brush-on paint colors (red, orange, etc.) that will do the trick.

* Hah - just saw Bruce's post !

Here is my Tamiya collection just for coloring bulbs. As suggested by others in this Forum, X-26 Orange is used for getting the harsh blue tone out of some white LEDs.

@Bruce Brown posted:

Here is my Tamiya collection just for coloring bulbs. As suggested by others in this Forum, X-26 Orange is used for getting the harsh blue tone out of some white LEDs.

Are there any issues with the heat from the bulbs?

Thank you very much,

Richard

I use a red Sharpie.

Neal Jeter

Richard,

I haven't seen any problems with Tamiya. I know when I used some other types of paint, bubbles would form in the paint on warm/hot incandescent bulbs.

What was used on the postwar bulbs that were used in the 153 block signal and were visible?

I replaced most of my Lionel Lamps with LEDs from Town and Country Hobbies that already are colored. Here is their replacement guide for the 153:

Thank you for sharing.
I love this forum.

If you're looking for a translucent look. Red nail polish works great! Just buy your own. Wife gets very mad when she finds out you're painting bulbs with hers.

How does she feel about green nail polish?

I also have used nail polish over the years.

@Arthur P. Bloom posted:

How does she feel about green nail polish?

Not really her color

I needed some green bulbs for my signal bridges.  Couldn't find anything in her supply!  Had to go buy my own !😁

@Bruce Brown posted:

I replaced most of my Lionel Lamps with LEDs from Town and Country Hobbies that already are colored. Here is their replacement guide for the 153:

153 (prior to 1950)	Block   Signal (prior to 1950)	50R,   50G
153 (after 1950)	Block   Signal (after 1950)	53R,   53G OR 53RP, 53GP

I'm with Bruce - I've replaced all my Lamps with Town and Country LEDs.  They work great and priced right in bulk.  Some small size LED bubs I toned down with orangey translucent spray paint.  By the way, Town and Country have inexpensive street lamps.