painting plastic pannels

habibe99

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Apr 13, 2001, 3:52:21 PM4/13/01

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I needed a new door and a new rear quarter pannel, I got them cheap (200 bucks
for both of them) the only problem is that I couldn't find my color. so, my
question is, how do I paint these? do I need to strip these down first? how do
I do that? do I need to prime them? do I do anything different then you would
to a normal metal car? any tips would be appreicated. also if you ahve any ways
I cna save money on this, it would be helpful. thanks

ROYBears

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Apr 13, 2001, 4:24:18 PM4/13/01

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Here are some instructions on what one person did to get started...
http://members.nbci.com/_XMCM/cegrey/Paint.htm

I found this page from here:
http://www.saturnfans.com/Car_Care/How_To_Articles/

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habibe99

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Apr 13, 2001, 5:05:02 PM4/13/01

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from that link you sent, it says you don't stips the paint? is this true? also,
can you get teh paint code in a spray can? or do you need to rent a paint
sprayer to do it?

Ben McDowell

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Apr 14, 2001, 12:09:34 AM4/14/01

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For "teh paint code in a spray can" try a NAPA that sells auto paint. A
sprayer would work better?

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mul...@x.files

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Apr 14, 2001, 8:57:10 AM4/14/01

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The paint used on the plastic body panels contains special agents to make it
flexible, the stuff you buy in the parts store in a spray can is not intended for
this use. It will eventually crack as the panels flex, expand and contract over
time. The best bet if you need to refinish entire panels is to get the paint code
and bring the panels to a body shop as they will have the proper materials. You can
also bring a small part such as the gas cap so they can match the color more
accurately.
You'll still be saving on labor by removing/installing the panels yourself but the
results will be much better.

xxx

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Apr 14, 2001, 11:44:43 PM4/14/01

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Habibe,

Normally, I just lurk here, but I agree with Mulder - take it to a shop and
have it done. You won't get good results unless you are using pro-grade
paint and equipment.

It's possible to get a jobber to specially mix the right paint and put it
into a spray can for you, but this is intended for small areas (the size of
your fist).

The other big problems are that:

1. Pro-grade paint contains a hardening catalyst (isocyanate based) that is
extremely toxic. You need special protective equipment to spray this type of
paint safely (ventilated paint booth with air supplied full face mask and
full coverage protective clothing). It's possible to skip the catalyst,
however the results will appear dull and will not be very durable.

2. Solvent based pro paint is extremely flammable and needs special
handling. Static electricity from simply pouring it from one can into
another could cause it to ignite and turn you into an instant fireball.

Painting is not difficult if you know what you're doing, but to do it safely
is beyond the means of most DIYs.

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