I got my autometer 3 Gauge a-pillar pod today. Called local dealership to see if they could paint it for me. They said come in, we have to see what it looks like. Went in, and they said we need another piece from your truck to color match but your probably looking at about $100? From the look on my face he could tell i was surprised. he said that if you dont get it dyed(sp?) right the paint will start to peel. I dont know anything about painting so I really dont know what this guy was talking about. I said ok, ill come back later. So anyway, is there any way to paint this thing for less then a $100? I dont really trust myself to do it but if its goin to cost me that much to get it painted I guess I could try it. How do I paint it?

Thanks

 

your dealer isn't going to do it. Find out who they contract to (even ask your car insurance guy for a recommendation) and go to them.

It won't be less than $50 unless it's a friend doing it (getting my hood painted for cost of paint for example)

Edit: Oh yeah, don't do it yourself. Just don't. It's kinda like welding. If you've done it before it's easy, but don't start on something you care about.

Coldie

 

Why wouldn't the dealer do it? When I worked at the dealer, I used to paint all the warrenty trim pieces myself. Most come paint to match.

You can buy the stuff from the dealer Joe. You need the clear plastic primer, and the paint, part number M4JZ-19M547-4245H (gotta double check, but I'm pretty sure that's it, I have two different greys here).

Just go over the pod with some scotch brite to scuff it up, clean it, then spray the primer and paint in per directions on the can.

 

Do it yourself....I have painted lots of interior pieces over the years and they look PERFECT........I just took my time......I had the triple gauge pillar in my Impala and you would've figured it came painted.

 

i dont remember how much the can of ford paint was but it wasnt over 15 dollors.mines been painted about 3 years now and looks good as new.i just scuffed it up with scotch brite like sal and it worked fine.

 

ordered mine from lotek.com cost me $5 extra for the colored one to match the grey inside,they also sell them in black and saddle tan

 

Ok, paint it yourself. I just painted mine in the past 3 days (taking my time). I got Ford paint (to match at the dealer) and then I went to a local paint store and got adhesive agent. (it helps to open up the 'pores' of the plastic- so I was told) I actually believe it has a small acid in it that helps to soften the plastic and make your paint stick better.

Scotch bright (grey) is a good idea before everything to scuff it up. Wipe it down with alcohol to remove any molding oils, then dry. Then paint with 2-3 light coats of the adhesive agent. While it's still tacky to the touch (it should feel slightly sticky, if there is color on your finger on touch, or if there are any strings it's too wet still). Then paint it with light coats with ford paint. you can paint it about 7-8 times to get a good color. It will match and look great. Just did mine and everyone thinks it's money.

Just a few secrets. If you drip on it or do have a run (I got a bad can and got two drips from the can- oh yeah and this was my first time) just let it dry, scotch bright the drip and fade the sanded/scotch brighted area about an inch around it. Wipe down with alcohol again... dry... and repaint this time be more careful on where you drip.

You are out $25 and you've got a pro job. Plus you'll have enough paint left over to paint 4 for your friends.

 

I got the loteck 3 gauge pod to came grey to match matches perfect.

 

Does the ford paint and adhesive stuff come in spray cans? or do i have to go out and buy a paint gun?

 

Joe,
spray can...get your motor back yet????

 

very soon...tranny is at the shop waiting to be put in. im thinking about having the converter reworked to a higher stall speed. engine was picked up last wed. should be here late next week. HOPEFULLY will be running by the end of the month. now that the works blower is out though, i may have to pick one up and have the shop put it on. well see....

 

J15BIG-we will paint the pod for 50.00 which includes shipping. We have done many including factory tech's. I would not scotch brite it,tho. You have to use adhesion promoter(plastic) basecoat, then low gloss clearcoat. We paint all types of custom interiors & interior pieces. David at collisionpros@alltel.net

 

I bought a $5 can of spray paint at a paint supply place. It took a few coats and looks like a factory piece. If you want to spend more than that it is up to you, but I'll bet there isn't huge difference. Email me and I'll try to look up the color of the paint I used.
BTW, I'm not a painter.

 

What Frank said.$5 extra from Lo-Tek.

 

Maybe some of you guys don't get it so I'll try to make it clear. HE ALREADY HAS A GAUGE POD!