Omar Khalid
Painting plastic motorcycle fenders can be a challenging task, but with the right tools, techniques, and patience, it is possible to achieve a solid colour and a smooth finish. The process involves several steps, starting with thorough cleaning and sanding to remove any shine or crust from the plastic surface. This is followed by the application of an adhesion promoter and a high-build primer to ensure the paint adheres well. After priming, the fender is sanded again to achieve a smooth base, and a basecoat and clear coat are applied. The type of paint used is important, with two-part automotive paint (2K) recommended for the best results. Allowing adequate time for curing and drying between coats is crucial to achieving a high-quality finish.
Characteristics and their Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Clean, sand, scrub, sandblast, and clean again |
| Supplies | Degreaser/soap, sandpaper, scuff pad, adhesion promoter, primer, paint, sealer, putty flex |
| Paint Types | Two-part automotive paint ("2K"), Krylon Fusion, Poly Magic, Plastic Magic |
| Process | Wash with degreaser/soap, sand, wipe with pre-paint wax/grease remover, apply adhesion promoter, apply primer, sand, apply paint, apply sealer, fill imperfections with putty flex |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right paint
First and foremost, it is crucial to determine the type of plastic used in your motorcycle fenders. Most bike plastics are made from ABS, a durable and impact-resistant material. However, some aftermarket dirt bike plastics may be made from different types of plastic, such as polypropylene. Understanding the plastic type is essential because different plastics have varying levels of paint adhesion, and some paints may not be compatible with specific plastic types.
The paint you choose should be specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Krylon Fusion, for instance, is a spray paint designed for painting plastic. It offers a good alternative if you prefer using spray cans instead of a powered sprayer. Two-part automotive paint, also known as "2K" paint, is another excellent option for painting plastic. It provides a durable finish and can be found in liquid form, which you mix and apply with an air-powered sprayer.
Additionally, consider the colour and finish you desire. While two-part automotive paint may be available in a limited range of colours, it often comes in liquid form, allowing you to mix and create your desired shade. On the other hand, spray paints like Krylon Fusion may offer a wider range of colours but might have more limited application methods. If you are painting your fenders a solid colour, be prepared for the challenge of achieving a smooth and consistent finish.
To ensure the paint adheres well to the plastic, using an adhesion promoter is crucial. This product is sprayed onto the plastic before painting and helps the paint bond with the surface. Be sure to follow the directions on the can for the best results. Additionally, proper preparation of the plastic surface before painting is essential. This includes cleaning, sanding, and removing any contaminants to create a smooth base for the paint to adhere to.
Finally, consider the protective qualities of the paint. A 2K clear coat, for example, can provide an extra layer of protection against gasoline, oil, and other elements. This type of coating helps prevent flaking and ensures the paint job's longevity. Remember that painting motorcycle fenders can be challenging, and taking your time with the process will yield better results.
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Cleaning the plastic
Before painting plastic motorcycle fenders, it is important to clean the plastic thoroughly. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning the plastic:
Firstly, wash the plastic surface with a degreaser or soap. This will help remove any grease, dirt, or grime buildup on the plastic. Use a mild detergent if necessary, but ensure that the plastic is thoroughly cleaned. It is essential to start with a clean surface to ensure that the paint adheres properly and that there are no contaminants that may affect the painting process.
Next, use a DA sander with 180-grit dry sandpaper to sand the entire plastic surface. This process will create a rough texture on the plastic, allowing the paint to adhere better. It will also help remove any remaining contaminants and create an even surface for painting. Ensure that you sand evenly and thoroughly across the entire surface.
After sanding, it is crucial to remove any remaining dust or debris. Use a damp cloth or a brush to wipe down the surface. You can also use a pre-paint wax and grease remover to ensure that all contaminants are eliminated. This step is important as it will help the paint adhere properly and create a smooth finish.
Once the surface is clean and debris-free, apply a plastic adhesion promoter. This product will help the paint stick to the plastic and create a durable finish. Follow the instructions on the product, typically spraying it on and waiting for it to dry before proceeding to the next step.
Before painting, it is essential to apply a primer to the plastic surface. Choose a high-build primer or surfacer, and apply at least two coats. This step will provide a good base for the paint to adhere to and will help create a smooth and even finish. Ensure that the primer is suitable for plastic surfaces and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the painting stage.
Finally, once the primer is dry, you may want to consider misting the surface with a cheap black paint as a guide coat. This step is optional but can help you identify any spots or areas that may need additional sanding or preparation. Use wet sandpaper with 400 or 600 grit to gently sand the entire surface. This final sanding step will ensure an ultra-smooth finish and prepare the plastic for a high-quality paint job.
Remember, proper cleaning and preparation are crucial for achieving a professional-looking paint job on plastic motorcycle fenders. Take your time with each step, and ensure that the plastic surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepared before moving on to the painting stage.
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Sanding the surface
Start by cleaning the plastic surface thoroughly. Use a degreaser or soap to remove any dirt, grease, or grime buildup. This step is essential as it ensures that the sanding process will be effective. Once the fender is clean and dry, you can begin sanding.
Use a DA sander with 180-grit sandpaper to sand the entire plastic surface. This process will create a rough texture on the smooth plastic surface, allowing the paint to adhere better. Make sure to sand evenly across the surface to achieve a consistent texture. After sanding with the DA sander, switch to a finer grit. Use 320-grit sandpaper, and sand the entire surface until it feels smooth and there is no shine remaining. This step is crucial in achieving a smooth finish for your paint job.
Once you've finished sanding, it's important to remove any residual dust or debris. Use a pre-paint wax and grease remover to wipe down the entire surface. This step ensures that the surface is completely clean and ready for the next step. Apply a plastic adhesion promoter to the sanded surface. This product will help the paint adhere better to the plastic and create a more durable finish. Follow the instructions on the product, typically allowing it to dry for about 10 minutes before proceeding.
After the adhesion promoter has dried, you can begin priming the surface. Use a high-build primer or surfacer, and apply at least two coats. This step will help fill in any scratches or imperfections caused by the sanding process. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. Once the primer is dry, you can lightly sand the surface again with 400 or 600-grit wet sandpaper. This final sanding step will help create an ultra-smooth finish and ensure that the surface is ready for painting.
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Applying an adhesion promoter
To apply an adhesion promoter to your motorcycle fenders, you will first need to clean the plastic surface thoroughly. Use a degreaser or soap to wash the plastic, and then use a DA sander with 180-grit dry sandpaper to sand the entire surface. Next, take 320-grit wet sandpaper and sand the entire surface until it is smooth and free of any shine.
Once the surface is prepared, wipe it down with a pre-paint wax and grease remover. Then, you are ready to apply the adhesion promoter. Spray the entire surface with a good quality plastic adhesion promoter. You can purchase a product specifically designed for this purpose, such as Bulldog adhesion promoter, or you can use a product like Ajax or SOS pad along with a Scotchbrite pad to create a dull finish on the plastic before painting.
After applying the adhesion promoter, follow the directions on the product you are using. Typically, you will need to wait about 10 minutes before applying paint. However, be sure to read and follow the specific instructions on your chosen product. Once the specified time has passed, you can proceed to apply your chosen paint colour to the fenders.
It is important to note that while adhesion promoters are not always necessary, they can improve the durability of your paint job. Additionally, some paints, like Krylon Fusion, are specifically designed for painting on plastic and may not require the use of an adhesion promoter. Always test your products on a small area first to ensure compatibility and desired results.
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Adding the primer
To add the primer, start by thoroughly cleaning the plastic fender with a degreaser or soap. Use a DA sander with 180-grit dry sandpaper to sand the entire plastic surface. Then, use 320-grit wet sandpaper over the entire surface until it is smooth and free of any shine.
Next, wipe down the surface with a pre-paint wax and grease remover. Spray the surface with a high-quality plastic adhesion promoter. This step is crucial for ensuring that the paint adheres properly to the plastic surface. Allow the promoter to dry for about 10 minutes, following the instructions on the product's label.
Now, you can apply the primer. Select a high-build primer/surfacer and apply two coats to the surface. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This primer will fill in any scratches or imperfections from the sanding process.
Once the primer is dry, you can move on to the next step of painting your motorcycle fender.
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Frequently asked questions
Two-part automotive paint ("2K") is the best option, but it may be difficult to source locally. Krylon Fusion is the second-best choice for use on plastic. Regardless of the paint you use, you will need to use an adhesion promoter if you are painting on plastics.
The key to successfully painting plastic motorcycle fenders is proper preparation. First, clean the plastic with a degreaser/soap. Then, sand the entire surface with 180-grit sandpaper. Next, scrub the plastic with Scuff Magic and a red scuff pad to remove any contaminants. Sand again with 180-grit sandpaper to remove any spots you missed. Finally, sandblast the surface with 80-grit aluminum oxide and clean the plastic with a plastic cleaner.
First, apply two heavy coats of Plastic Magic, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. Then, apply a high-build waterborne primer surfacer and let it dry. Sand the surface smooth with 320-grit sandpaper. Fill any low spots or imperfections with Putty Flex. Apply a white All Seasons Waterborne Flexible Bumper Sealer. Once the sealer dries, apply your base coat and clear coat.
