Maya Ellison
Painting a plastic spoiler requires a few steps to ensure the paint adheres to the plastic surface. First, the spoiler should be laid on a flat surface and hung with a wire hook through a bolt hole. Then, the spoiler should be sanded with sandpaper to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. Next, the spoiler should be cleaned with a wax and grease remover to remove any dust and oil. After this, a coat of primer should be applied, followed by another round of sanding with finer sandpaper. Once the primer is dry, the spoiler is ready for painting. The paint should be applied in thin, even coats, with multiple coats applied until the spoiler is evenly covered. Finally, a clear coat can be applied to protect the paint.
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What You'll Learn
Preparing the spoiler for painting
After scuffing and cleaning, wipe the spoiler down with a clean, lint-free rag and some plain water. Avoid using any solvents, especially harsh ones, as these are not needed and can be detrimental to the process. Once the spoiler is clean and dry, you are ready for the primer coat. Mask off any parts of the spoiler that do not need to be painted using masking tape. Then, spray a very light first coat of primer, followed by additional coats as directed on the can. Typically, primers require 5-10 minutes between coats, and you should aim for about 7-8 light coats or until the object has an even coat of primer.
Let the primer coat dry overnight. The next day, you will need to sand the primer coat using 400-grit sandpaper and the criss-cross method. This step is crucial, as you want to sand the primer to a dull, smooth surface, ensuring there are no imperfections like divots or deep scratches. These imperfections will be amplified when applying the colour coat. After sanding, the spoiler is now ready for painting.
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Sanding the spoiler
Firstly, it is important to lay the spoiler on a flat surface, such as a tabletop or concrete floor. This provides a stable base for you to work on. If the spoiler is already attached to a car, an alternative method is to hang the spoiler. To do this, straighten a wire hanger and create a small hook at one end. Place the hook inside a bolt hole of the spoiler and suspend it from a high point, ensuring the spoiler does not touch the ground. This allows you to access all areas of the spoiler during the painting process.
The next step is to choose the appropriate sandpaper grit for the job. For plastic spoilers, it is recommended to start with a finer grit sandpaper, such as 200-grit or 320-grit. This type of sandpaper will help you achieve a smooth finish without causing excessive scratching. If you are working with a previously painted spoiler, the 320-grit sandpaper will help you effectively remove the old paint without damaging the underlying surface. Always sand by hand, using a sanding block or a flat hand to ensure an even finish.
When sanding, use a criss-cross method for the best results. Sand left to right, then alternate by sanding up and down. Repeat this process until you have a dull, smooth surface. It is important to sand the entire surface of the spoiler that will be painted. This includes getting into any crevices or hard-to-reach areas. If using a sanding block, ensure it fits into these areas. If not, switch to using your hand with the sandpaper, keeping your hand level and flat.
Once you have finished sanding, it is crucial to remove any dust or debris created during the process. Use a lint-free or microfiber towel to wipe down the spoiler. You can also use a wax and grease remover to ensure the surface is free of any oils or grease that may interfere with the paint adhesion. This step is essential, as any contaminants left on the surface can cause disturbances in the paint later on.
After the spoiler is clean and dry, it is now ready for the primer coat. However, before applying the primer, you can use a paint prep cleaner specifically designed for plastic surfaces to further enhance paint adhesion. Additionally, if there are any scratches or imperfections on the spoiler, fill them with body filler and smooth it out with a putty knife. These extra steps will ensure a flawless finish once the painting process is complete.
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Applying primer
To prepare a plastic spoiler for painting, it is important to apply a primer. This will help the paint adhere to the plastic surface and prevent it from cracking or peeling off.
Firstly, ensure the plastic spoiler is clean and degreased. Use a plastic paint prep cleaner or a light-medium scotch pad with a cleanser like "Comet" and wipe it clean with water. This will remove any releasing agents from the plastic that prevent paint from sticking. Then, use a wax and grease remover to wipe down the spoiler, ensuring it is free of dust, grease, and oil.
Next, you can apply the primer. If the plastic has old paint on it, sand the surface with 200-grit sandpaper to scuff it up and create a rough texture for the primer to adhere to. If there is bare plastic showing, you will need to apply a plastic primer before the regular primer. One coat of plastic primer is usually enough, but you can apply more if needed. Be careful not to get any runs or drops, as these will need to be wiped off.
Once the plastic primer is dry, apply the regular primer. Spray a thin, even coat over the entire surface of the spoiler. Allow the primer to dry for a full hour. Then, use 300-grit sandpaper to lightly and evenly sand the entire spoiler, smoothing out the coat of primer. Be careful not to sand completely through the layer of primer, but it is okay to have a few spots where the primer is sanded through.
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Painting the spoiler
Painting a plastic spoiler requires a few steps to ensure the paint adheres to the plastic and that the end result is aesthetically pleasing. Firstly, you need to prepare the spoiler for painting. This involves abrading the plastic with sandpaper to create a rough surface that paint can stick to. The spoiler should then be cleaned with a wax and grease remover, and a lint-free cloth to remove any dust or oil. It is important to clean the spoiler thoroughly, as any remaining dust or oil can cause disturbances in the paint later on.
Once the spoiler is prepared, you can begin the painting process. Start by placing the spoiler on a flat surface and using masking tape to cover any bolt or screw holes to prevent them from getting clogged with paint. You should then spray a coat of primer on the spoiler and allow it to dry for at least an hour. After the primer has dried, lightly sand the entire spoiler with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface. Remove any dust created by the sanding with a clean, dry cloth.
Now, you are ready to apply the paint. Shake the paint can for at least three minutes, then test the paint on a spare piece of cardboard. Spray a light coat of paint on the spoiler, waiting at least 15 minutes between each coat. You may need to apply several coats of paint to achieve an even finish. Once you are happy with the coverage, allow the paint to dry completely before applying a clear coat. The clear coat will protect the paint from scratches and UV rays, ensuring the paint job lasts longer.
Finally, remove the tape from the bolt and screw holes, and allow the spoiler to dry completely before installing it on your vehicle.
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Applying a clear coat
Clean the Surface
Before applying the clear coat, it is crucial to ensure that the plastic surface is thoroughly cleaned and free of any contaminants. Use a suitable cleaner, such as a plastic paint prep cleaner or a product specifically designed for pre-paint preparation. Wipe the surface with a lint-free rag to remove any oils, dirt, or debris. This step is vital because contaminants can ruin your clear coat even after it has cured.
Choose the Right Clearcoat Paint
Select a clearcoat paint designed for automotive use and plastic surfaces. Look for a product that is UV-resistant and offers long-lasting protection against environmental elements. Spray-on clearcoat paints are often preferred for their ease of application and smooth finish.
Prepare the Work Area
To avoid overspray, carefully mask off the surrounding areas of the car with painter's tape and plastic sheeting. Ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area, as clear coat paints can release fumes.
Apply Light to Medium Coats First
When applying the clear coat, start with light or medium coats, following the manufacturer's instructions. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. This helps achieve a smooth and even finish.
Build Up Heavier Coats
Once you have a good base with the initial light coats, you can gradually build up to slightly heavier coats. Stay within the recoat window to ensure proper adhesion and curing.
Consider a Flex Agent for Flexible Plastics
If the plastic spoiler is made of extremely flexible material, consider adding a small amount of flex agent to the final coats of clear coat. Flex agents help the paint adhere better to flexible plastics and prevent peeling. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and application.
By following these steps, you can effectively apply a clear coat to a plastic spoiler, ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.
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Frequently asked questions
To prepare a plastic spoiler for painting, you need to clean the plastic surface with a plastic paint prep cleaner. You can use a light-medium scotch pad with "Comet" cleanser and wipe it clean with water. The comet cleanser will help release 'releasing agents' from the plastic, which will allow for better paint adhesion.
You can use regular primer and paint on a plastic spoiler. However, it is recommended to use paint with a flex additive so that if the plastic flexes, the paint doesn't peel off. If you are using metallic paint, it is best to spray it with a professional-style gun and then clear coat.
First, lay the spoiler on a flat surface and use sandpaper to evenly sand the entire spoiler. Then, hang the spoiler and wipe it with a wax and grease remover. Next, spray a thin coat of primer on the spoiler and let it dry for an hour. After, spray a thin coat of paint on the entire surface of the spoiler and wait 15-30 minutes. Repeat this process until you have applied three to four coats of paint. Finally, apply two to three coats of clear coat paint and let the spoiler dry completely before installing it.
Yes, an alternative to painting a plastic spoiler is to use a carbon fibre or vinyl wrap. You can get vinyl wraps in various finishes and colours to achieve the desired look without the need for painting.
