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I haven't pulled the AIM to research this yet, but is it a PITA to remove the steering column to repaint it or should I just mask everything and spray it while still in the car? Everything is currently out of the car except the steering column.
Do you need a wheel or gear puller to remove the steering wheel or any other special tools to get the turn signal and ignition switch components out?
Got 2 boxes in from ZIP today and all of the console and dash components have been repainted waiting re-install.
I pulled my interior to replace everything from red to black. Just mask and cover for overspray and repaint it in place. Mine turn out great so I don't see a need to remove it.
Whether you leave it in or take it out make sure you take your time and prep the column right. I bought an 80 tilt/tel column from a swap meet to put in my 68 and I guess the column had tons of layers of silicon and other crap that was a major PIA to get off for the paint to stick right. Best guess is when they put that Armorall stuff or other chemical treatments to make your interior look shiny, it really sticks to the paint & plastic and is a PIA to get off. You have to get all surface contaminents off the column before painting.
I went to the local paint store and home depot and picked up all kinds of cleaning agents to remove the silicon first.
Once I knew everything was off I light sanded it with a fine sandpaper to ensure it was all off. Don't sandpaper it before cleaning it b/c the sandpaper will just push the silicon deeper into the plastic.
After 3 attemps, my paint finally stuck and no blotches were present.
good luck.
Last edited by 68 NJConv 454; Jan 9, 2008 at 02:11 PM.
Thanks for the input guys. I got to spend a little time with the service manual today and I think I'll paint while in place, even though I like the idea of powder coating it.