K Gang, if moderators want, they can sticky it, here goes:
Chrome window trim - to color of choice:
Step 1: Remove tape if previously using this method. Clean trim with goo-gone to remove ALL glue residue from tape. Wipe down with alcohol and clean towel.
Step 2: Remove sideview mirrors by removing plastic cover from inside and using 10mm rachet to unscrew 3 nuts. Also disconnect the wire connect.
Also remove the gasket/seal from the outside:
Step 3: Diligently, and I mean diligently, mask off the trim area. 3m brand masking tape with edge lock works wonders. As you know, the trim and rubber seal are a fine edge to deal with.
*I found that it was impossible to get the perfect edge seam all the way through; take your time with this step. Make sure all chrome is exposed to be painted, if some paint gets on the rubber or plastic edges, it is MUCH BETTER to deal with that than realizing you masked over a piece of the chrome trim and need to do "touch up".
NOTE: I placed duct tape over the inner edge of rubber door seals at top of the door. By doing this, the duct tape can "pull" the rubber back enough to be able to get the top of the chrome trim.
* I then placed the masking tape over the duct tape for the final perfect masking seal. If you try to do this only using the 3m masking tape, you will find it difficult to be able to "pull" that rubber back due to the waxy/slippery connection between the two. Duct tape grabs better:
Before final masking, close doors, but not completely, the slightly ajar position gives perfect access for the spray to get the trim from above
Step 4: Proceed to mask off the rest of the window areas. Take your time! Make sure ALL areas are well covered. Overspray finds any nook n cranny. Be especially careful that the tape sticks well around the curvy parts of the trim.
*Here is where shorts multiple pieces work better. Resist losing patience and trying with large strips.
Here's car with trim all masked and ready to go.
All that's needed now is to mask off rest of the car.
Step 5: You can use whatever plastic drop cloth you prefer, but few helpful tips: use 2 mil or thicker. AND do your BEST to avoid letting plastic pick up debris from the ground as this will eventually scratch your car as plastic gets placed and moved on the car.
*I used 3 overlapping 9x12 pieces. Secure them to bottom of the car, as tight as possible, wind is your enemy! You can also cut out small holes periodically throughout and tape down to the car at those points for more secure fit.
Step 6: Use 800 or 1000 grit sandpaper and scuff up the chrome. Then give it a good cleaning with alcohol. Don't go nuts with the wetting with alcohol. You have tape there that shouldn't get all wet and start peeling.
Step 7: Get your paints ready.
I used rustoleum black sandable automotive primer. Apply 3 progressively heavier coats of the primer. Wait 10-20 minutes between, or check recommendations on your can.
First coat shouldn't even cover entire trim. By time you have applied 3 even coats your coverage should be sufficient.
*I did not need to sand, my coats went down very well. You can use a tack rag in between coats to pick up any dust or light particles that may be flying into paint.
Step 8: Time for color (in my case it was Factory match black #202). Same thing applies, light coats getting progressively heavier. I waited just about 10-15 minutes in between coats. Tack rag in between to remove any dust particles that fly in. The rustoleum flashes pretty quickly. My 3rd coat was heaviest and provided perfect color depth and all around coverage. Stopped there
* I waited about an hour before beginning clear coat process.
Using dupli color OEM automotive clear, I applied light coats and went progressively heavier. Wait time between coats was about 10 min. *always check your cans recommendations, but clear flashes quickly allowing for quick re coat time.
I applied 4 total clear coats and then let her sit for few hours.
Step 9: Remove all masking. There's no special method, I just removed all plastic first; CAREFULLY and gently to avoid scratching the paint. I then removed all inner newspaper and random pieces of tape.
*Leave the tape at painted trims' edge for last. Remove slowly at 45 degree angle away from paint seam.
*After all masking is removed, check for overspray. Believe it or not, I got a little at the curved windows edge in the rear. Lacquer thinner removed it from the window with ease.
*The annoying part is going to be tape glue residue left behind, especially on the rubber seals around the windows (some on car as well) Once again, goo gone to the rescue. Just be careful to not rub it into your fresh new paint.
Step 10: Reverse procedure for sideview mirrors and re-secure.
Final Step: Stand back and enjoy your handiwork and realize it was a well spent 8 hours of the day:thumbsup: