Topic: sidecover paint on a 750 F

[Don R]

I got my new sidecovers for my 76 750F and am ready to paint. Has anyone used primer for plastic parts,  neccessary? What is a good grey color for them? The only thing I could find in search was Eastwood's pontiac rally wheel paint.
 They are Frankenbike's new ones and are really nice! Better get em while they're hot!

[jdubb1977]

Most paint makers would recommend a primer.  I just painted mine (I have the same bike).  Used Duplicolor self-etching primer first, then Duplicolor filler primer (comes in 3 or 4 colors), then paint.  From everything I read, starting w/ the self etching primer really helps the paint stick to the plastic.  Good luck!

[Don R]

Thanks, what was the color you used?

[g_lightning]

there are also primers out there specifically designed to adhere to plastic.  you should check you local autoparts store.  i think krylon makes one that goes on clear.  i have used it and had great results.

[jdubb1977]

Thanks, what was the color you used?

I used their medium gray (I think they also have a rust, black, and ??).  It worked great.  That primer is buildable, so I applied 5ish coats, then sanded it down to get rid of the little imperfections in the plastic.  Looks awesome! 

Oh, and as most members would recommend, when you choose a paint make (Duplicolor, Krylon, etc.), stick w/ it.  Things just turn out better that way.

[Jerry Rxman Griffin aka MuthaF'er]

The actual color is called Phantom Black.

[Silverback]

For plastics, I scuff the surface with 300-400 grit sandpaper. Then, I use Dupont adhesion promoter before paint, but there are others, like Bulldog, in a spray can. The sanding is actually the most important step. Be sure to remove all mold releasing agents (Hot soapy water usually does the trick) before sanding.

[BeSeeingYou]

I had to repair a crack in mine.  Sanded the cover with 400 grit and primed with Duplicolor primer.  Sanded this with 600 grit and sprayed on Duplicolor T169 black metallic followed by a clear overcoat. No problems.  This color is a bit more black than the stock phantom black which to me is more grey.

[Jerry Rxman Griffin aka MuthaF'er]

Looks good Steve! That looks like my side covers with a gloss clear coat on them.

[Don R]

Thanks for the info! It's way better to learn from someone that has done it than by trial and error!

[FrankenFrankenstuff]

Just in case anyone else needs some covers..or if you get really good at painting them and want to start a biz.
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=74022.msg822417#msg822417

[Don R]

I used the clear Duplicolor adhesion promoter, black primer and BGM0522 Storm Grey Met. I didn't get a lot of gloss but I don't remember them being that shiney new. It is a little lighter (more silver) But is very close and I am going with it. There is a chrysler and a ford version that may be closer but it's hard to tell by the color of the cap on the can. I could have done a little more wet sanding and saved some primer but I really love the side covers, I've been riding without for a long time.

[Jerry Rxman Griffin aka MuthaF'er]

No real gloss on a new set. Pretty flat. I just happen to have a NOS set 

[BeSeeingYou]

My originals were somewhat glossy considering the age.  Definitely not flat.  From photos I have seen of other F bikes it seemed that many side covers seemed a bit more black than mine.  I would describe my original covers as a charcoal color.  I wonder if there was some variation over time?

[Jerry Rxman Griffin aka MuthaF'er]

I'll try not to forget to get a picture of my NOS set and my clear coated set. I think my originals took on a little gloss due to wax and being rubbed by my jeans. Charcoal gray seems about right.

[Don R]

I rode it today and the Storm Grey Met. is a little too light, in the sun it looks silver not charcoal. I may re-paint with the T169 black met.

[Retro Rocket]

I rode it today and the Storm Grey Met. is a little too light, in the sun it looks silver not charcoal. I may re-paint with the T169 black met.

You could also just add some straight black to your "silver" colored paint to get the color closer. {unless it is in cans}

Mick