Repainting Console Top

[Steven H.]

I am in the process of refinishing the console top in my '64.
Do you need to apply any sort of etching primer to the chrome before applying the interior color or will the paint (dye?) adhere to the chrome?

Thanks

[Lynn H.]

Re: Repainting Console Top

Steven,
I am not certain you would achieve any different result with the etching primer. Nothing really bites into the chrome very well. I just clean extremely well with lacquer thinner, and paint with the "dye", and have never had a problem. Too much material build up will not look correct.
Lynn

[Steven H.]

Re: Repainting Console Top

Thanks Lynn.
I will just apply it in light coats over the chrome.

When I repainted the glovebox door, I applied the SEM Trim Black over the bare chrome and it came out great. Hopefully the console will come out as good.
Thanks again, I really appreciate your suggestions.

[Wayne W.]

Re: Repainting Console Top

Zinc chromate or epoxy primers are best. Apply a very thin coat.

[Tom A.]

Re: Repainting Console Top

In our shop we use a self etching primer over chrome, it make much better adhesion. We've painted chrome bumpers with a etching primer base and had no problems with adhesion. They hold up as well as a plain steel bumper with primer. You only need a thin coat but it wiil improve adhesion.

[Michael F.]

Re: Repainting Console Top

Use SEM trim paint. If going black? Use SEM trim black. Adheres to chrome better than anything, no primer needed. Use primer and you will get a lot more chipping.

[Steven H.]

Re: Repainting Console Top

I wish it was black, that SEM trim black is great!
My interior is dark blue. I am using a spray can of the Corvette America trim and upholstery color. I hope it works.

I have started removing some of the old color off the console and there doesn't appear to be any primer or basecoat under the blue.
The old blue color seems to be holding on there as well, I'm going to have to resort to a chemical stripper to get the console down to the chrome.