cadman

Ted, 

I agree that it would be a neat idea, but, like you said. reel manufs. would have to keep a huge inventory of paints, and solvent-based paints don't have a great shelf life.  Plus, one of the cheaper "tricks" they use to sell "new and improved" models is changing their reel colors, so I doubt they'll be willing to do it.

Another thing is how hard those paints are to apply nicely.  I've used both auto and appliance touch up paints in the past, and I've never gotten good results.  They always came out lumpy when I used enough to cover a nick or scratch.

Sharpies are easy to use, apply a thin coat, and dry almost immediately, so they're much more convenient for me.

Mark