A Pillar Paint Problem
#1
Your Arch Enemy
Thread Starter
A Pillar Paint Problem
The black paint on my a pillar is peeling off and looks really junky. I've noticed that this is a common problem with many of our cars.
Any advice on the best way to remove this without scratching up the aluminum? Is there a reliable product that can replace the finish?
Any advice on the best way to remove this without scratching up the aluminum? Is there a reliable product that can replace the finish?
#2
RX HVN
iTrader: (2)
Seriously John? Your in India??
I had a glass shop pull all the windshield trim off, took the pieces to a local powdercoat shop. They media-blasted them clean then semi-gloss black. Looks factory and bullet-proof. Not cheap, mind you. Worth doing mirror bodies and wiper arms, etc at the same time...
Even if you decide to paint them yourself I would recommend the media-blast to remove old finish, but a medium grit sandpaper would probably work. You want something strong enough to pull the old paint but not deeply scratch the pieces. I think they are aluminum or similar soft metal. I think most standard paints will eventually fail due to impacts, which is what makes the powdercoat so nice.
NOTE:
1) you WILL destroy the trim retaining clips that hold the pieces to the window, so make sure you get a windshield "clip kit" for the re-install. About $15.
2) be careful you don't lose the small rubber and plastic MOLDINGS that fit between the body and the various pieces. These are NO LONGER AVAILABLE.
here's a pic of mine powdercoated. More of a beauty shot so not a lot of detail, sorry...
Stu Aull
80GS
Alaska
I had a glass shop pull all the windshield trim off, took the pieces to a local powdercoat shop. They media-blasted them clean then semi-gloss black. Looks factory and bullet-proof. Not cheap, mind you. Worth doing mirror bodies and wiper arms, etc at the same time...
Even if you decide to paint them yourself I would recommend the media-blast to remove old finish, but a medium grit sandpaper would probably work. You want something strong enough to pull the old paint but not deeply scratch the pieces. I think they are aluminum or similar soft metal. I think most standard paints will eventually fail due to impacts, which is what makes the powdercoat so nice.
NOTE:
1) you WILL destroy the trim retaining clips that hold the pieces to the window, so make sure you get a windshield "clip kit" for the re-install. About $15.
2) be careful you don't lose the small rubber and plastic MOLDINGS that fit between the body and the various pieces. These are NO LONGER AVAILABLE.
here's a pic of mine powdercoated. More of a beauty shot so not a lot of detail, sorry...
Stu Aull
80GS
Alaska
#3
Your Arch Enemy
Thread Starter
Thanks alot Stu for the detailed description. Your results look great. Being a cheapskate, I will probably go the fine grit route and leave the bare aluminum for now.
Yes, I am living and working in New Delhi on a ten month contract. Can't wait to get back to my car in California.
Yes, I am living and working in New Delhi on a ten month contract. Can't wait to get back to my car in California.
#7
Your Arch Enemy
Thread Starter
Trochoid, thanks. I think that will be the best option for me.
Sorry to be such a pain, but any tips on which grit to use? I am famous for starting with a big grit and scratching everything up.
Sorry to be such a pain, but any tips on which grit to use? I am famous for starting with a big grit and scratching everything up.
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#9
Old Fart Young at Heart
iTrader: (6)
I'd start with 220 grit, then go to 400 wet/dry, an etching primer, then a very light sanding, tack rag the dust off and topcoat with a matte black. Hell even BBQ grill paint will work for window trim. I think I used Camo matte black on mine and it's still holding up after 3 years.
#11
Stu-Tron Get Yo Groove On
iTrader: (4)
Ray Green is the man with the plan here:
https://www.rx7club.com/1st-generation-specific-1979-1985-18/i-painted-my-windshield-trim-777510/
https://www.rx7club.com/1st-generation-specific-1979-1985-18/i-painted-my-windshield-trim-777510/
#14
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Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Jacksonville,NC
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well i jus brillo-padded it off with house paint thinner..really ghetto yet really efficient and jus polished the scratches out with mothers polisher...WEAR GLOVES!! lol dont be like me
#15
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