I'm about to install new carpets on my 1973. As I have to remove almost all plastic interior panels (the rear ones) it would be a good moment to try to clean them and repair scratches, cracks, screws support etc.
I was wondrering if anyone had ever tried to paint them in order to renew the colours. Mine are black but they are faded. Is it a good idea? Any kind of paint in particular? Gloss, flat or semi gloss finish? If someone did it before I'd like to see some pics of the work, before and after pics would be great
I'll keep you updated with my progress of the carpet installation!!!

 

Don't use paint. Use dye. Comes in a rattle can like paint. Haven't had to do this myself yet but have read several threads about dyes. Search the forum for more info and recommendations. Seems like some brands are better than others. Maybe some of the folks with dye experience will reply.

DC

 

"SEM" is a great brand, I don't know if you can get it there? But almost all your paint guys can mix you up some for the plastic panels that will work well (you should not need more than a quart/liter). Just be sure to clean them well prior to the application. I prefer satin over gloss, it is whatever YOU like!
Good Luck wro87

 

I would suggest NOT buying vinyl dye in spray cans. Why? Because several people on this Forum have done so, and it appears that they have really bought paint...without knowing it. Go to some local auto paint (professional stuff) supply store. Get 1 pint of SEM vinyl dye mixed to your interior code (or bring in a 'good' piece that you want matched). Then [unless you have your own spray stuff], buy a PreVal gas cannister/bottle set from the same store along with 1 or 2 additional gas cannisters and you are set to go. Wash all of the interior parts carefully; if you put Armor-All or other petroleum based stuff on your interior parts, use Dawn diswashing detergent to get that cr@p off and then wash then down again. Rinse all soap, etc. totally off of the parts and let them dry completely. Stir the dye and fill the spray bottle 1/2 way with dye. Screw on the gas cannister, put paper down to catch overspray and have at it. Shoot one light, covering coat on; let set 5 minutes, then shoot a final light, covering coat on. That's it. Don't spray so thick that it runs...but if you do get a run, just let it dry as you'll mess it up more if you try to wipe it up. This stuff dries quick and it leaves almost no thickness...it won't clog-up the surface grain of the part like paint would. You will be amazed at the quality of the results...just like new! I would also advise you to NEVER use petroleum based 'protectants' on those parts again. Use a drying, polymer based coating like Nu-Vinyl or the Mequiar's polymer protectant on those parts. They will stay new looking longer and not have that greasy build-up that the oily stuff leaves. Have fun...and get ready to see a new-looking interior.