Sofia Martinez
The Chevy Avalanche is a popular car, but it has a known issue with its plastic trim parts fading and becoming discoloured. This has prompted many owners to seek solutions to restore the plastic trim to its original state. While some opt for a full respray, others prefer to use products such as Armor All, Turtle Wax's ICE, or even plastic restoration wipes. Some people have also suggested using a roller or aerosol cans to apply a coating, such as Gatorback, to the plastic trim. Others have recommended removing the cladding and using a combination of boiled linseed oil and mineral oil, or a product like ArmorThane polyurethane, to restore the plastic trim.
Characteristics and Values Table
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Dallas |
| Service | Repainting Avalanche plastic |
| Options | ArmorThane polyurethane, ArmorLiner polyurea, Gatorback Textured Plastic Coatings, Carworx RR, Armor All, Turtle Wax's ICE, AMMO NYC plastic restoration wipes, Dupli color trim and bumper paint, Ace Hardware brand Satin black paint, Maguires Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer, Self-etching primer and rustoleum universal paint, Boiled linseed oil and mineral oil |
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What You'll Learn
Painting plastic trim
Preparation:
Before painting, it's essential to prepare the plastic trim by removing it from the vehicle if possible. This makes the process quicker and more efficient. If removal isn't feasible, use masking tape to cover the surrounding areas and prevent overspray. JTAPE offers specific masking tapes, such as their Perforated Trim Masking Tape and Flat Orange Precision Masking Tape, which are designed for curved and straight edges, respectively. Ensure there are no gaps for paint to seep through by securely applying pressure to the tape.
Sanding:
The next step is to sand the plastic surface to create a smooth base for the paint to adhere to. Use sandpaper with different grit levels, working your way up slowly. This process helps remove the shiny surface of the plastic, which will enhance the paint's adhesion. Pay attention to curved and detailed areas, as they may require more meticulous sanding.
Cleaning:
Once the sanding is complete, it's crucial to clean the plastic surface thoroughly. Use a detergent or a suitable cleaning solution, and make sure to rinse and dry the surface afterward.
Priming:
Before painting, apply a suitable primer designed for plastic surfaces. This step is essential, as it ensures the paint will adhere properly and provides a foundation for the paint job. Apply the primer from a distance of about 6-7 inches, wearing a mask to protect yourself from the chemicals. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Painting:
Now, you're ready to paint the plastic trim. Choose a high-quality automotive paint designed for use on plastics, as it will adhere better to the surface. Spray paint is a popular choice, and it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Apply multiple light coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. For drastic colour changes, you may need more coats of paint.
Clear Lacquer:
To protect the paint job and add a shiny appearance, apply a clear lacquer over the painted surface. Again, use multiple coats for the best results.
Alternative Solutions:
While painting is an option, there are other solutions to address the issue of fading plastic trim on the Chevy Avalanche. One option is to use a product like Armor All or Turtle Wax's ICE, which requires frequent reapplication. Another solution is to use a semi-permanent coating like Gatorback, which can be applied with a roller or aerosol cans. For a more permanent solution, a body shop can sand and grind down the plastic before painting it, although this option is likely to be expensive.
In conclusion, painting plastic trim on a Chevy Avalanche, or any vehicle, requires careful preparation and the use of appropriate products. By following the steps outlined above, you can achieve a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish. However, there are also alternative solutions to consider, each with its own advantages and drawbacks.
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Using ArmorThane coatings
The Chevy Avalanche, introduced in 2002, featured a light grey plastic body cladding intended to provide a distinctive look and protection in high-wear areas. However, this cladding developed cosmetic issues such as fading, streaking, and discolouration from heat and sunlight exposure. ArmorThane, a chemical and equipment manufacturing company, offers a range of protective coating solutions that can address these issues and provide long-lasting protection for Avalanche owners.
ArmorThane's polyurethane and polyurea coatings are designed to prevent scratching, denting, and discolouration. These coatings can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including metal, rubber, and fiberglass, and are known for their durability and textured finish. The company provides professional coating services through its network of certified applicators and also offers equipment and training for those looking to apply the coatings themselves.
One Avalanche owner, Steffan, shared his experience with ArmorThane coatings. After his 2002 Avalanche was damaged in a collision, he had the running boards coated with ArmorLiner polyurea. Impressed with the results, he decided to remove the old cladding and have the pieces sprayed with ArmorThane. However, he discovered rust underneath the cladding, which extended the project timeline as the body had to be repaired. Nonetheless, Steffan was pleased with the durability and finish of the ArmorThane coating.
ArmorThane coatings can also be used to coat entire vehicles, providing off-road capabilities and protection from door dings. In one example, an employee's Dodge Ram pickup was coated with ArmorLiner polyurea, demonstrating the effectiveness of ArmorThane's coatings in enhancing vehicle protection and performance.
For Avalanche owners in Dallas, certified ArmorThane applicators can be located through the company's website. With over 35 years of experience in the industry, ArmorThane is a trusted choice for protective coatings, offering solutions for a range of applications beyond just vehicles, including military projects, oil and gas, concrete restoration, and more.
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Repairing cladding damage
The 2002 Chevy Avalanche was introduced with a light grey plastic body cladding, which was changed to a darker cladding in the 2003 model. However, the new cladding developed issues such as a chalky, faded look with streaking and discolouration. As a result, General Motors offered a one-time treatment using ArmorDillo, but this solution only lasted six months. The permanent solution to discolouration and other cladding damage is ArmorThane polyurethane, which is the same material used to spray bed liners to prevent scratching and denting.
If you are repairing cladding damage on a building, it is important to act quickly, especially if there are signs of rust or corrosion, as this can spread across panels and towards the metal structure of the building. Repairs typically involve sealing cracks caused by rust and applying an anti-corrosion primer to prevent further damage. In the UK, adverse weather conditions can cause cracking in exterior cladding, which can worsen over time due to water seepage and freezing temperatures. Therefore, regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to prevent issues and ensure the safety of the building's occupants.
For composite cladding, the repair process differs depending on whether the boards are capped or uncapped. Uncapped boards can be scrubbed with a steel scourer or scouring pad to remove marks, while capped boards require a gentler approach to protect the exterior plastic coating. If there is severe scratching on a capped board, it may need to be replaced. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent future repairs by identifying issues such as dirt ingress or mould growth.
Fibre cement cladding is known for its durability, but it can still be damaged by installation errors, extreme weather, water damage, or rodent activity. Repairs typically involve removing the damaged piece and addressing any underlying issues, such as water damage or rotting. Small holes in the cladding can be patched with a putty designed for fibre cement repairs, while loose nails can be carefully hammered back into place.
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DIY methods for repainting
The 2002 Chevy Avalanche was introduced with a light grey plastic body cladding, which was changed to a darker cladding in the 2003 model. The Avalanche's cladding is known to develop cosmetic issues such as a chalky, faded look with streaking and discolouration from heat and sunlight exposure.
There are several DIY methods for repainting Avalanche plastic in Dallas. Here are some detailed instructions for a successful DIY repainting project:
Preparation
Firstly, identify the type of plastic. Most plastic parts have a code indicating the kind of plastic it is. This information will help determine the suitable paint and preparation process.
Cleaning
Thoroughly clean the plastic surface with detergent and warm water. Rinse and let it dry. For a final wipe, use mineral spirits or isopropyl alcohol to remove fine plastic dust produced during the sanding process.
Sanding
Sand the surface with 200-grit sandpaper or a red scuff pad to create a rough texture that promotes better paint adhesion. Ensure the surface is no longer shiny, as this indicates that you have achieved the desired level of mechanical adhesion.
Priming
Apply a suitable primer to the sanded surface. Primers specifically designed for plastic surfaces, such as adhesion promoters, provide a better base for the paint to adhere to. Let the primer dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Painting
Select a paint suitable for plastic surfaces. Spray paints designed for plastics or acrylic spray paints are recommended for outdoor plastics. For indoor plastics, use top-quality acrylic spray paint or 100% acrylic latex paint.
Hold the spray can 8-12 inches away from the surface, tilted at a 45-degree angle. Spray light coats in a forward direction to prevent overspray, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Drying and Finishing
Let the final coat of paint dry for at least two hours in a warm, dry environment. If there are dried-on drips or drops, sand them down flat once the paint is completely dry.
By following these steps, you can achieve a successful DIY repainting project for your Avalanche plastic.
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Restoration products
There are several restoration products available for plastic, vinyl, and rubber surfaces. These products are designed to restore and enhance the appearance of faded, discoloured, or damaged surfaces. Here are some options for restoration products:
Commercial-Grade Products
GT Tools® offers a range of commercial-grade products specifically formulated for plastic restoration in the automotive, motorsports, marine, and aeronautical industries. These products can effectively address issues such as scratching, hazing, and yellowing caused by UV deterioration.
Automotive Trim Restorers
There are various automotive trim restorers available on the market, such as Solution Finish and Manett's Mega Shine. These products are designed to protect and revitalise trim and plastic surfaces. They can enhance the appearance and provide long-lasting protection against deterioration.
Polyurea and Polyurethane Coatings
Polyurea and polyurethane coatings, such as ArmorLiner and ArmorThane, offer durable and effective solutions for Avalanche cladding repair. These coatings can prevent issues like fading, scratching, and denting. They provide a textured finish and excellent protection for high-wear areas.
Plastic Restorers
Products like CAR GUYS Plastic Restorer and Carfidant Plastic Restorer are designed to bring plastic, vinyl, and rubber surfaces back to life. They can refresh faded materials, enhance shine, and protect against UV damage and dirt. These restorers are easy to use and can effectively restore the original colour and finish of the surface.
Alternative Methods
In addition to dedicated restoration products, there are alternative methods for addressing plastic trim fading. These include sanding and painting, using products like Armor All or Turtle Wax's ICE, or applying semi-permanent coatings like Gatorback. While these options may require more effort or frequent reapplication, they can also provide effective results in restoring and enhancing plastic surfaces.
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