Paint or Vinyl Dye
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 169
Likes: 0
From: Tullahoma Tennessee
Paint or Vinyl Dye
I bought a lower dash pad off ebay and when I got it I realized the former owner had used paint instead of dye. I still plan on using the pad b/c it's in good shape, but it is the wrong color. So when I color it black should I use paint or vinyl dye?
Advanced
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 71
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From: Minnedosa MB
You should try and get the old paint off if you think it's peeling or going to peel off. See if lacquer thinner rubs it off but be careful your not effecting the plastic or vinyl and getting it soft. If not, just clean it real good and scuff it up. I actually glass beaded the paint someone put on my seat backs which worked really good. You can't really use thinner on that type of plastic but vinyl you should be alright if your careful.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,117
From: Crossville TN
Ask your local auto paint supply place how the vinyl dye will cover and adhere to a painted surface. I think it will be OK to use vinyl dye...if the painted surface is good and stable. I don't think you should try to remove the paint; anything that will cut the paint will probably melt the thin vinyl coating on the panel. You really have nothing to lose by trying the dye, unless the paint store gives you a "thumbs down".
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 169
Likes: 0
From: Tullahoma Tennessee
Thanks for the oppinions guys. I'll try to vinyl paint over the current paint job as it seems to be holding up ok. Any suggestions on what vinyl dye to use? I was looking into the dye from eastwood.
Advanced
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 71
Likes: 0
From: Minnedosa MB
I always use SEM dyes, they have never given me any trouble always a good match if you mix the right code and very tough. I have tried to scrape it off and scratch it on tests but it don't come off. You can probably get it at any auto body supplier. They can even put it in a can most of the time after you confirm it's the right color. What is your trim tag number? I can give you the formula for yours if you want.
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Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 23,367
Likes: 1,061
From: Virginia USA
I acutally just bought some dye for Corvette America. Works really well and I am pleased with the color match too.
