Omar Khalid
Painting a snowmobile's plastic parts is a time-consuming and delicate process. It requires a lot of preparation, including cleaning, sanding, and priming the plastic surface. The paint used must be specifically designed for plastic, and the application technique is crucial to achieving a smooth and even finish. While it is possible to achieve strong results with a DIY paint job, it is important to follow all the necessary steps and not cut any corners. This guide will take you through the process step by step, offering tips and tricks from experienced painters to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Painting Snowmobile Plastic
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prep Work | Remove snowmobile parts, wash them, scrub rough spots with a sponge, use light sandpaper if necessary, wash again to remove dust and dirt |
| Paint | Krylon Fusion, Plastydip, Pactra Paint, Duplicolor, AutoAir Paints, or good auto paint |
| Paint Type | Flat or gloss |
| Paint Application | Hold the can at least 8 inches away, do not face the can directly at the plastic, move at a steady pace |
| Coats | Apply multiple thin coats, allowing 5 minutes of drying time between each coat, repeat the painting steps at least twice |
| Surface | Ensure the snowmobile plastic is completely dry and clean before painting |
| Adhesion | Use an adhesion promoter to improve paint adhesion |
| Flexibility | Use a flex additive to keep the paint soft and flexible, especially for flexible parts |
| Primer | Use a primer or sealer before painting to improve smoothness and adhesion |
| Clear Coat | Apply a clear coat to add smoothness and integrity to the paint job |
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What You'll Learn
Prepping the plastic
Firstly, remove the plastic panels from the snowmobile. This will allow you to work on them more easily and access all areas. Next, give the panels a thorough cleaning. Use a scrub brush and hot soapy water or an evaporating solvent to ensure the removal of any dirt, grime, or oil residue. This step is important as any remaining residue can affect the adhesion of the paint. After scrubbing, give the panels another wash to ensure they are completely clean.
Once the panels are clean and dry, inspect them for any rough spots or damage caused by wear and tear. Use a sponge to scrub these areas hard, and if necessary, use light sandpaper to smooth them out. Start with a finer grit sandpaper, such as 400-grit, and then move to a slightly coarser grit, like 800, if needed. This process will help create a uniform surface for the paint to adhere to. It is important not to skip this step, as it will affect the final outcome of the paint job.
After sanding, it is crucial to remove any sanding residue. Use a wax and grease remover, wiping it on and then wiping it off thoroughly until the surface is completely dry. You can also use a glass cleaner for the final wipe-down to eliminate any static. These steps will help ensure that the paint adheres properly and does not encounter any contaminants.
Finally, some people recommend using an adhesion promoter or a flex additive to further enhance the adhesion of the paint. These products can be found at automotive paint stores and are especially useful if you are working with raw plastics. Remember that prep work is key to achieving a high-quality paint finish, so take your time and don't rush through these steps.
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Choosing the right paint
Painting snowmobile plastic requires careful preparation and the right paint. The paint you choose will depend on the finish you want, the colour, and your budget.
Firstly, it is important to note that you must use paint designed for use on plastic. Do not use anything that is not plastic paint. You can use a spray can or a paint gun, but the paint must be suitable for the substrate. Krylon Fusion Spray paint is recommended by some users, and it is available at Sears. It requires no prep work (sanding or priming) and sticks well, although it is only available in basic colours. Pactra Paint is also mentioned as a good option, and it can be purchased at hobby stores. If you want a wider range of colours, you can go to a local auto paint store, and they will make almost any colour in an aerosol can. Ask about a knockoff brand to save money.
If you want a top-notch finish, it is recommended to pay a professional body shop to do the work. You will get a better finish, and it will be more durable. If you want to do it yourself, you will need to prepare the plastic properly. This includes cleaning it thoroughly and sanding it to ensure the paint adheres well. An adhesion promoter can be used to improve adhesion. You can also use a primer, which will help the paint go on more smoothly. A clear coat can also be applied, which will give a smooth surface and added integrity.
Once you have prepared the surface, you need to choose the right paint. This will depend on the colour and finish you want. For a flat colour, Krylon Fusion is a good option. For a gloss finish, you will need to choose a different paint, such as Plastydip. This paint can be peeled off if you don't like the result. It is important to make sure you get the right shade of colour to avoid a horrible mixed look.
Finally, consider using a flex additive to keep the paint soft and flexible, especially if you are painting plastic parts that need to be assembled. However, this will only last a week or two once the paint is cured.
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Painting technique
Painting snowmobile plastic requires a lot of preparation and patience. The first step is to remove the panels from the machine and wash them thoroughly. It is important to scrub the panels with a sponge to remove any dirt, grime, or belt dust. If there are rough spots or scuff marks, you may need to use light sandpaper (400 grit and then 800 grit) to smooth them out. It is crucial to ensure that the panels are completely dry and clean before painting.
Once the panels are prepared, you need to choose the right paint. It is important to use paint specifically designed for plastic, such as Krylon Fusion, Plastydip, or Pactra Paint. You can usually find these at hardware stores or hobby stores. Decide on the finish you want—flat or gloss—and make sure to get the correct shade of colour to avoid a mismatched look. A spray handle can also be purchased to help with the painting process.
When you are ready to paint, place the panels in an area where they will not be contaminated by bugs, dust, or dirt. Ensure that you can access most angles of the panels and that they are spaced apart to avoid overspray. Hold the paint can at least 8 inches away from the surface and start spraying, pointing the can about 3-4 inches away from the plastic. Move across the plastic at a steady pace, not too fast or too slow, to avoid paint build-up.
After the first coat, let the pieces dry for about 5 minutes. Apply a second coat, and you should still be able to see the base plastic colour. Let the panels sit for another 5 minutes, then apply a third coat from a different angle to ensure complete coverage. Repeat this process until you have applied at least four coats of paint. After the fourth coat, let the panels sit for at least 15 minutes before repeating the painting steps again.
Some people also recommend using a clear coat sealer after painting to ensure a smooth finish and added protection. It is important to note that painting snowmobile plastic can be time-consuming and may not always yield professional results. If you are looking for a top-notch finish, consider having a body shop paint the panels for you.
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Drying and curing
- Drying Time: After each coat of paint, allow the pieces to dry thoroughly. The recommended drying time between coats is approximately 5 minutes. This gives the paint a chance to set before applying the next layer.
- Multiple Coats: It's important to apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat. This technique helps prevent paint buildup and ensures a more even finish. After the first coat, repeat the painting process, building up the colour gradually.
- Different Angles: When applying subsequent coats, change your angle to ensure complete coverage. This helps the paint set in all the right spots and avoids missing any areas.
- Extended Drying: After the fourth coat, let the pieces sit for a longer period, such as 15 minutes or more. This extended drying time allows the paint to cure and harden, improving its durability.
- Final Coats: Once the pieces have dried sufficiently, repeat the painting process again for the final coats. This ensures a deep, even colour and a more professional finish.
- Avoid Over-spray: Ensure there is enough distance between each piece to prevent over-spray. This will help you avoid paint buildup and ensure a cleaner finish.
- Smooth Finish: During the drying process, you may notice rough spots or edges. Don't worry, as the clear coat will help smooth out these imperfections. It will mix with the paint, adding integrity and a sleek finish to the surface.
- Flexibility: Consider using a flex additive if your snowmobile has flexible parts. This will keep the paint soft and pliable, reducing the risk of fracturing. However, additives may only last a week or two once the paint is cured.
- Curing Time: Once the final coats are applied, allow ample time for the paint to fully cure. This could take several days or even weeks, depending on the paint type. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific curing times.
- Avoidance of Damage: During the curing process, avoid using the snowmobile or touching the painted surfaces. Any contact or movement could damage the paint job before it has fully hardened.
- Testing Adhesion: To test if the paint has cured properly, try gently pressing or squeezing the painted areas. If the paint remains intact and doesn't crack or peel, it's a good indication that it has cured sufficiently.
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Sealing and finishing
Sealing
Before painting, sealing the plastic surface is essential to ensure better paint adhesion and a smoother finish. It is recommended to use a clear coat sealer, such as the Krylon Fusion clear coat sealer, which is specifically designed for plastic surfaces. This step will provide a foundation for the paint to adhere to and help protect the plastic.
Finishing
- Clear Coat Application: After the paint has dried, apply a clear coat over the painted surface. The clear coat will not only enhance the paint's appearance but also provide added protection. It will mix with the paint to create a smooth surface and improve the overall integrity of the finish.
- Multiple Thin Coats: Instead of applying one thick coat of clear coat, it is best to apply multiple thin coats. This technique will help achieve a more uniform and durable finish. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next one.
- Sand and Prime: For a truly professional finish, consider sanding the plastic surface before applying the clear coat. Lightly sand the painted surface with fine-grit sandpaper (400-800 grit) to create an even smoother base. Then, apply a primer designed for plastic surfaces to further enhance adhesion and create a uniform finish.
4 Drying and Curing: Ensure that you allow ample time for the clear coat to dry and cure completely. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time. Adequate drying will ensure that the finish is durable and less prone to chipping or scratching.
- Avoid Over-spray: When applying the clear coat, be mindful of over-spray. Maintain a consistent distance of at least 8 inches between the spray nozzle and the surface. Additionally, ensure that the surrounding area is well-ventilated to promote proper drying and avoid any health hazards.
- Re-spraying: If necessary, you can always go back and re-spray specific areas. This is an advantage of using a spray can, as it allows for touch-ups and ensures a consistent finish across the entire surface.
Remember, the sealing and finishing process is just as important as the painting itself. Taking your time and following these detailed instructions will result in a high-quality, long-lasting paint job on your snowmobile's plastic components.
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Frequently asked questions
Krylon Fusion Spray paint is considered the best paint for plastic. It is available at Sears and requires no prep work. However, it is only available in basic colours. Pactra Paint is another option, available at hobby stores.
First, you need to prep your panels by removing them from the machine and washing them. Then, scrub any rough spots with a sponge. You may need to use light sandpaper if there is damage. After this, wash them again to ensure there is no dirt or dust. Next, decide on your paint colour and whether you want a flat or gloss finish. Ensure your panels are completely dry and clean before you start painting. Hold the can at least 8 inches away from the surface and do not face the can directly at the plastic. After the first coat, let the pieces dry for 5 minutes and then repeat. After the fourth coat, let them sit for at least 15 minutes before repeating the painting steps again.
First, mark a line where you want to cut. Then, start with a razor and finish with tin snips after a deep groove has been made.
To get paint to stick to snowmobile plastic, you need to ensure the surface is very clean. Use an evaporating solvent or hot soap and water with a scrub brush to clean the plastic. You can also sand the surface before wiping it down with a lacquer thinner.
