2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Painting camper shell, how to?

[Deezul1]

I have a fiberglass shell that has patchy oxidation and not much shine anymore and I want to re paint it. It is black and will remain black. I am not really fussy mostly just want it shiny. There are some light scraped areas that need sanded and maybe a thin coat of Bondo or whatever. what kind of primer and paint should I get and what type of prep is needed?

TIA

John

 

[rchall]

Painting Prep

Dear Deezul



First you have to use an automotive type of paint and primer!!



(B) next unless the scraped areas is deep you will be able to

use some "ROCK PUTTY" automotive type



(C) use some 300 and 600 grid sand paper and scuff up the

surface a little so the paint will stick.



(D) After sanding wash with soap and water



(E) Next wipe down the camper shell with automotive type

paint thiner



Now you are ready to paint



Use about 35 pound of air pressure in the air gun

 

[RHoblitt]

John, it would be best to wash it with a good soap like tide first, then wipe it down with wax and grease remover or pre clean solvent. Don;t use paint thinner. As far a sanding goes get a few red scotch brite pads and scuff it up good. You can fill the chips with body filler or you can buy a good two part catilized putty. The un cat putty shrinks up. Paint is another matter, unless you have a fresh air mask i would stay away from any catilized paint. That really doesn't leave you with much choice. I painted many years and have a lot of health problems because of it. so i know what i am talking about. If you prep it and know that any good paint job is the prep, you can take it to Macco or some shop like that and have them spray it for you. Other wise the material alone will cost you aprox 150. 00 ( been retired for five years so it may be more). Good luck Richard

 

[Deezul1]

Wow, $150 for materials may make me rethink doing it myself. Maaco wants $179. 00 and I just drop it off and pick it up. Not being a painter that caught me surprise. Thanks for replies and if anybody has anything to add then please do, every bit helps me make the decision.

 

[roycrown]

While I don't claim to be a great painter (painted 6 cars spread out over a 20 year period) I will paint a fender, or door (or camper shell) when I have to, as in to save money. To do a nice job is very labor intensive, I would pay the $179.

 

[rchall]

Paint Shops

Dear Deezul



If you take it to Macco or some shop, make sure they put at lease two coats of paint and at leas one coat of clear sealer on the camper shell. My father and I, have a small shop that we build fiber glass racing part, and this paint scheme is our standard paint plan. .





I hope this helps