you were talking about retrofitting led's in the tails... just use these they are kind of expensive, but definately worth it. both trustdestruction and i have them.. well mine are ordered and will be here tomorrow, but they work great, they are really bright. i can post pics tomorrow, or i believe trust has some pics online already.
http://superbrightleds.com/cgi-bin/s...gi?product=CAR
get the 5w luxeon bulbs part: BA15 5watt. i believe your car uses 1157 for the brake lights, i could be wrong though.

 

I'm assuming you're talking about pulling the lenses off and painting the housings themselves? If so, I say go for it... it's what I was planning on doing to my old ej1 before I sold it... never ended up getting the car re-sprayed though lol