Alexei Volkov
Painting the plastic molding on a 2004 Silverado is a straightforward process, but it requires some preparation to ensure the paint adheres properly. First, the molding must be removed from the vehicle, and then it should be washed thoroughly with a grease-fighting soap. Next, the molding should be sanded to smooth out any imperfections. After sanding, a wax and grease remover should be applied, followed by an adhesion promoter to ensure the paint will stick to the plastic. Once the adhesion promoter is dry, the molding can be sprayed with plastic primer and then two to three coats of paint. Finally, a clear top coat will protect the paint job and give it a polished look.
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What You'll Learn
Removing moulding from a 2004 Silverado
Another user on the same forum also recommended Plastidip as a way to remove moulding from a 2004 Silverado. They masked off a few inches at the top and bottom and sprayed on four light coats, waiting 15-20 minutes in between each coat.
If you are looking to remove moulding from your 2004 Silverado, it may be worth considering the above methods. However, it is important to note that removing moulding may affect the appearance of your vehicle, so it is recommended to consult a professional or a detailed guide before proceeding.
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Washing and cleaning the moulding
To paint the plastic moulding of your 2004 Silverado, you must first ensure that the plastic is thoroughly cleaned. This is an important step as plastic can be discoloured or damaged if the wrong products are used.
Begin by washing the moulding with a grease-fighting soap, such as Dawn dishwashing soap. Wash the moulding three times to ensure that all grease and other contaminants are removed.
Next, use a wax and grease remover to clean the moulding again. This step is important as it will ensure that the paint will stick to the plastic and not start flaking off over time.
Now you are ready to begin sanding the moulding. First, sand it with 80-grit sandpaper until the plastic is completely free of factory texture. Then, go over it with 180-grit sandpaper until it starts to smooth out. Finally, sand it with 220-grit sandpaper. If you want an even smoother finish, you can optionally sand it with 320-grit wet sandpaper.
After sanding, you can apply an adhesion promoter to further ensure that the paint will adhere to the plastic. You can then prime and paint the moulding.
It is recommended that you clean your car's plastic moulding at least 6-8 times a year to keep any regular build-up from occurring. When cleaning the exterior moulding, use a proper shampoo and a wash mitt to remove all surface debris and dirt. You can also use a plastic trim cleaner, applying it in small sections with a small, plastic-bristled brush or toothbrush. Work the cleaner into the trim until the plastic underneath appears un-faded and even, then wipe the area dry with a clean, lint-free cloth.
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Sanding the moulding
- Remove the trim from the vehicle using an automotive trim removal tool. The trim is likely attached with double-sided tape, so an automotive trim removal tool can help to carefully separate the trim from the vehicle body without causing damage.
- Wash the trim thoroughly with a grease-fighting soap. This step is crucial as it removes any grease, dirt, dust, or other contaminants that may be on the plastic surface. Wash the trim multiple times to ensure it is completely clean.
- Once the trim is clean and dry, it's time to start sanding. A DA sander is recommended as it will speed up the process. Start with 80-grit sandpaper and sand until the plastic is free of any factory texture or imperfections. There may be small hairs sticking up from the plastic, which is normal.
- Continue sanding with 180-grit sandpaper. This will help to smooth out the surface further.
- Progress to 220-grit sandpaper. The goal is to create a smooth, even surface that is free of any plastic hairs or imperfections.
- Optional: For an even smoother finish, you can go over the surface with 320-grit wet sandpaper. This step is optional but can provide an even better base for the paint to adhere to.
- After sanding, the trim should be smooth to the touch with no visible plastic hairs. It is now ready for the next step in the painting process, which typically involves applying an adhesion promoter or primer to ensure the paint adheres properly.
Remember to work in a well-ventilated area when sanding and always wear the appropriate safety gear, including a respirator and eye protection, to avoid inhaling dust or debris.
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Using primer
Painting plastic moulding on a 2004 Silverado requires some preparation to ensure the paint adheres to the plastic surface. One of the most important steps is using a primer.
First, you need to clean the plastic surface with a wax and grease remover. This will remove any dirt, dust, wax, and grease that has built up on the trim. You should then use an adhesion promoter to ensure the paint will stick to the plastic. Once the adhesion promoter is dry, you can apply the primer. It is recommended to use a plastic primer and to use slightly more primer than adhesion promoter. The coat of primer does not need to be very thick, but it should thoroughly cover the trim. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions, and then you can apply the paint.
When priming, it is important to ensure you do not break any clips when removing the plastic parts from the car. You can rip the parts out, but be careful not to use too much force. It is also recommended to sand the plastic surface before priming to ensure it is smooth. You can start with 80-grit sandpaper and then go over it with 180-grit and 220-grit sandpaper. You can also use 320-grit wet sandpaper for an even smoother finish.
After priming and before painting, you should sand the primer with 500-grit or 600-grit wet sandpaper until it is completely smooth. If it is not smooth, you may need to apply a few more coats of primer and then sand again until it is smooth like glass.
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Spray painting the moulding
Step 1: Remove the Moulding
First, you need to remove the moulding from your Silverado. This can be done using an automotive trim removal tool, which will slide between the trim and the body of the vehicle to cut through the double-sided tape holding the trim in place.
Step 2: Clean the Surface
Once the moulding is removed, it's important to clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, wax, or grease. Use a grease-fighting soap or a wax and grease remover to ensure the surface is clean and free of any contaminants.
Step 3: Sand the Surface
After cleaning, you can start sanding the surface. Use a DA sander, starting with 80-grit sandpaper, to remove the factory texture from the plastic. Then, move to 180-grit and 220-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface. For an even smoother finish, you can optionally use 320-grit wet sandpaper.
Step 4: Apply Adhesion Promoter
To ensure the paint adheres properly, apply an adhesion promoter or flex promoter to the surface. This will allow the paint to stick to the plastic and flex with it, preventing flaking over time. Apply 2-3 coats of the promoter.
Step 5: Primer
Once the adhesion promoter is dry, apply a high-build primer to the surface. Use 3 coats of primer and then sand it smooth with 500-grit or 600-grit wet sandpaper. Continue sanding until the surface is smooth like glass.
Step 6: Paint
Now you are ready to spray paint the moulding. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the paint you have chosen and apply 2-3 coats to ensure complete coverage. Allow the paint to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 7: Clear Top Coat
Once the paint is dry, apply a clear top coat to protect the paint job and give it a glossy finish. Apply 2 heavy coats of the clear top coat, being careful to avoid running.
Step 8: Reattach the Moulding
Finally, reattach the moulding to your Silverado. Ensure that it is secure and properly aligned before driving your newly refreshed truck!
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Frequently asked questions
Before painting, the plastic molding must be treated so that the paint adheres to its surface. First, remove the molding using an automotive trim removal tool. Then, wash the molding with a grease-fighting soap, like Dawn dishwashing soap, and a rag. Next, clean the molding with a wax and grease remover. Finally, scuff the trim with an automotive scuffing pad to remove any excess gloss surface.
After scuffing, spray the trim with an adhesion promoter, like Bullydog adhesion/flex promoter, to help the paint stick to the plastic. Once the adhesion promoter has dried, spray the trim with a plastic primer.
You should use slightly more primer than adhesion promoter, but the coat does not need to be very thick.
After the primer has dried, apply two to three coats of paint, ensuring that you completely cover the primer.
Once the paint has dried, spray the trim with a clear top coat. To avoid having to sand and polish the trim, apply two heavy coats while being careful to avoid running the clear top coat.
