Sofia Martinez
There are several ways to change the colour of your ATV plastic. You can buy a new set of plastics, either from the manufacturer or second-hand from eBay or Craigslist. You can also paint the plastic, but this can be expensive and time-consuming, especially if you don't have experience spraying. Before painting, the original paint must be removed, and the plastic must be rubbed down with sandpaper or a Scotchbrite pad. You can also use a heat gun to remove scratches and restore colour, but this can make the plastic more brittle.
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Painting ATV plastic
If you are still interested in painting your ATV plastic, the first step is to choose a suitable workspace. You will need a closed space that also allows for plenty of ventilation. Once you have your workspace set up, follow these steps:
Clean the ATV
Give your ATV a thorough wash to ensure that no dirt or debris interferes with the painting process.
Remove Rust
Use a sand blaster or sandpaper to remove any rust or oxidation from the plastic surface. For large areas, 60-100 grit sandpaper is best, while 220 grit is more suitable for smaller spaces.
Apply Plastic Cleaner
Apply a generous amount of plastic cleaner to the plastic surface and let it sit for about 20 minutes before wiping it off. This will ensure that the surface is free of any chemicals or substances that might interfere with the paint.
Prime the Surface
Cover the entire surface with a primer specifically designed for flexible plastic. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually around 4 to 6 hours.
Sand the Primer
Once the primer is dry, use 120 to 220 grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface. This will help create a better bond between the primer and the paint.
Paint the ATV
Apply an even layer of paint specifically designed for plastic, such as spray paint, acrylic, or enamel. Common brands that make paints for plastic include Krylon, Valspar, and Rust-Oleum. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying a second coat, if necessary.
Apply a Clear Coat (Optional)
If you plan on painting more than one color or want an extra layer of protection, apply a clear coat over the paint. Allow the clear coat to dry completely before sanding it with 400 grit sandpaper.
It is important to note that proper preparation is key to successfully painting ATV plastic. The process may be time-consuming and labour-intensive, and it is recommended to consider other options such as hydro-dipping, bed liners, or wraps if you are not confident in your painting abilities.
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Hydro dipping
Preparation
Firstly, you need to prepare the item for the process. This includes cleaning, scuffing, sanding, and/or flame treating the part to ensure optimal adhesion with the primer/base coat paint. Different substrates will require different preparation methods. It is important to ensure that the item is free of all dirt, oils, wax, grease, loose paint, or other contaminants that could affect the final product.
Priming and Painting
Once the item is properly prepared, you need to prime and paint it using a compatible paint for the water transfer printing process. If the item will be exposed to UV light, it is recommended to use an automotive-grade base coat paint instead of generic aerosol paints. Make sure to have enough padding around the item to allow the inks to wrap without stretching.
Dipping
When dipping the item, ensure that it is done at an angle that prevents trapped air. Technique and proper training are important in this step. After dipping, rinse off any residual PVA material with warm water and let the item dry completely.
Clear Coat
The final step is to protect the item with a clear coat. This will lock in the decoration and make it durable and fade-resistant. It is recommended to spray multiple light coats instead of one heavy coat to prevent runs in the clear coat. Allow the item to dry between each coat.
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Using a wrap
The first step in using a wrap is to decide on the look you want to achieve. This could be a simple colour change or something more intricate like stripes, flames, or other patterns. It's recommended to start with a solid colour, especially if you're a beginner, as it's easier to install and you won't have to worry about matching your existing paint job. Once you've gained some experience, you can experiment with more complex designs.
When selecting the vinyl wrap, it's important to choose a high-quality product that is durable and flexible, specifically designed for vehicle use. Measure your ATV and purchase slightly more material than you think you'll need to account for any errors or reapplication. You can find vinyl wraps in various colours and styles, allowing you to personalise your ATV to your unique taste.
Before applying the wrap, it's crucial to prepare your ATV thoroughly. Start by cleaning it to remove any dirt, grease, or debris. Remove any parts that may obstruct the process, such as racks or lights. Ensure you repair any damage, like dents or deep scratches, as these can show through the vinyl.
Once your ATV is prepared, you can begin cutting and applying the vinyl. Cut the vinyl into sections according to the different parts of the ATV. Peel off the backing and gently apply it to the surface, working from one end. Use a squeegee to smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles and a heat gun to make the vinyl more pliable around curves and corners. Pay close attention to the edges, ensuring they are well sealed, and trim any excess vinyl with a precision knife for a neat finish.
Finally, allow the vinyl adequate time to cure and set properly. Refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for curing times to ensure optimal adhesion. Using a lift or lift table can be helpful when working on lower or angled surfaces, providing a comfortable working height and reducing strain on your body.
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Buffing and sanding
Sanding:
Before you begin sanding, it's important to clean the plastic surface thoroughly. Start by using 180-grit sandpaper to sand the entire surface, focusing on any deep scratches or damaged areas. This step helps remove any thin "crust" that may have formed on the plastic due to exposure to the sun and elements. Once you've sanded the entire surface, move on to the next step.
Scrubbing:
After sanding, use a product like Scuff Magic and a red scuff pad to scrub the plastic. This step helps remove any water-soluble contaminants and ensure a clean surface for the next steps.
Sanding Again:
Go back to sanding with 180-grit sandpaper to remove any spots or "crust" that you might have missed during the initial sanding. This step ensures that the surface is evenly sanded and prepared for the next steps.
Sandblasting:
Sandblast the entire surface with 80-grit aluminum oxide. This step helps create a uniform texture on the plastic and ensures that any remaining contaminants are removed.
Buffing:
Now it's time to move on to buffing. Use a liquid rubbing compound, which should be of medium grade. Apply it to the sanded and sandblasted surface. You can use a buffer or a mother's ball for this step, as it will require some effort to get the plastic to shine. Work in small concentric circles, ensuring you cover all the plastic parts, especially the hard-to-reach areas.
Waxing:
After buffing, use a liquid wax to add shine and protection to the plastic. You can use products like Turtle Wax, Mothers, or Maguires for this step. This step will help enhance the shine and protect the plastic from future fading.
Final Wipe-Down:
Once you're done buffing and waxing, use a dry rag to wipe down the plastic. This final step will reveal clean and shiny plastic, giving your ATV a refreshed look.
Remember that the process of sanding and buffing can be time-consuming, especially if your ATV's plastic is in rough shape. However, with patience and the right products, you can achieve impressive results without spending a fortune.
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Removing old paint
Sanding
One option for removing old paint is to use sandpaper. Start with a lower grit, such as 500 or 600, and gradually increase to a higher grit, such as 1000 or 1200, to smooth out the surface. Sanding can be effective, but it may require a lot of effort and time. It is important to note that while sanding can remove paint, it will also remove the shine from the plastic. After sanding, it is recommended to use a liquid rubbing compound, liquid wax, and a buffer to restore the shine.
Chemical Strippers
Chemical strippers, such as paint removers and oven cleaners, can be used to remove paint. However, some people express concerns about using chemical strippers on plastic, as they may damage the surface. It is important to test these products on a small, hidden area first to ensure they do not harm the plastic.
Acetone
Acetone is a solvent that can effectively remove paint from ATV plastic. It requires some "elbow grease" and can be applied with sponges. While acetone is effective, it may not be suitable for all types of paint.
Soda Blasting
Soda blasting is a process that uses a soda blaster tank to remove paint. This method is less likely to damage the plastic compared to sanding, but it will leave the plastic with a dull finish. After soda blasting, you may need to use a plastic restorer or polish to improve the shine.
High-Pressure Washer
Using a high-pressure washer is suggested as a possible method to remove paint without damaging the plastic. However, there are concerns about the effectiveness of this method, especially if the paint has adhered well to the surface.
Before attempting any paint removal method, it is essential to clean the ATV plastic thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, and substances that could hinder the process. Additionally, always wear gloves and safety goggles when working with chemicals or power tools.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to change the colour of your ATV plastic. You can buy a new set of plastics, either from a dealership or second-hand from eBay or Craigslist. You can also paint the plastic, but this can be expensive and time-consuming, and the paint may not adhere well. If you do decide to paint, make sure you use a plastic primer and a flexible paint. Alternatively, you can use a product like SC1, Aerospace 30, or Black Magic Tire Spray to restore the plastic's original colour and shine.
First, remove any existing paint using a product like paint thinner or a Scotch-Brite pad. Then, rub down the plastic with sandpaper until the surface is scored or scratched. Next, apply a plastic primer spray in light coats and leave it to dry. Finally, apply plastic paint in several coats with intervals in between.
You should use a flexible paint designed for use on plastic. Some recommended brands include Krylon Fusion, 3M, and Turtle Wax. It's also important to use a plastic primer before painting to ensure the paint adheres well.
Yes, instead of painting, you can hydro-dip your ATV plastics, which offers countless patterns and colours. You can also use a spray-on bed liner like Linex or Rhino Liners, which come in different colours and are very durable. Additionally, you can try buffing and polishing the plastic to restore its original colour and shine.
