C2 RacetrackTrim Paint/Tape?

[Jim H.]

The racetrack trim on the door panels of my C2 have been stripped by the PO of the inner channel black detail paint. On a lazy Sunday afternoon, I got some black hobby paint and artist's brushes expecting I could Da Vinci the detail channel paint in an afternoon. Thank God I used a piece of scrap trim because I soon discovered I am more like a hamhanded ape than Da Vinci. Any suggestions on how this is done? If I found the right width black tape in the right finish this strikes me as an possible approach given how straight and uniform the channels are for the most part (leaving for another frustrating afternoon the problem of the S curves). Is hiring a pinstriper the approach? But even he has to contend with the unforgiving vertical walls on both sides of the channel. Or should I just get used to the all-brightwork look of the racetracks I have? All suggestions are appreciated.

JCH

[Don H.]

Re: C2 RacetrackTrim Paint/Tape?

Jim
If I was tasked with that job, I would do your ham-handed ape work, followed up with either a Q-tip or pinkie finger tipped rag dipped in lacquer thinner rubbed down the track, but not so deep that you rub the black out of the gully. Trial and error should show how you finesse away the ape work,,,

[Jim H.]

Re: C2 RacetrackTrim Paint/Tape?

Well, I have a lot of scrap pieces, Don, so maybe I'll practice more. I used the lacquer thinner w/tee shirted finger on the dash cluster I repainted and cleared the paint off the chrome bezels and switch letters. Came out beautiful. Unless someone comes w/a quick fix for my trim, I'll give it another shot.

[Donald O.]

Re: C2 RacetrackTrim Paint/Tape?

Try this method

use a roll of either 1/2" or 3/4" painters tape and completely cover the trim, make sure you get the tape all the way down in the center tack, i use wooden sticks like the kind from a popcicle or a doctor's tongue depressor.
take a fresh sharp razor blade and cut along the edge of the track on both sides the remove the center track section leaving the outer edges covered. Have a spray can of SEM trim black and give it 2 or 3 coats. Remove the outer tape pieces and reinstall the trim on the door. Don't forget to staple over the locking pins.

This method is also good for the rocker panels below the door.

As always, patience and practice is the key to perfection.

DonO

[Jim H.]

Re: C2 RacetrackTrim Paint/Tape?

Don O, that method is more in line w/my minimal skills. Do you prime the metal first or do you find the SEM adheres well after the surface has been stripped of oils/residue w/alcohol or mineral spirits? JCH

[Donald O.]

Re: C2 RacetrackTrim Paint/Tape?

I use the cheapie lacquer thinner on a shop paper towel.
When using the razor blade don't press too hard as to score the metal.
DonO

[Donald O.]

Re: C2 RacetrackTrim Paint/Tape?

Forgot to add that I do not use a primer. The SEM adheres quite well
DonO