Painting Dash Pads

[Doug]

Sorry for all the rookie posts, but really keen on getting some good information haha. I have a brown dash pad, not exactly sure of the actual name or whatever, but I need a black one, if I got it painted what would the end product look like? Can you tell the difference? Or would I be better off searching for an original black dash pad?

[Vombil]

just paint it. make sure that you dont get it 'flat' or satin. the last brew of vinyl paint i had matched came out way too glossy and you can tell its painted. My mate used base coat which looks good

[Doug]

just the reply I was after, thanks for that

[thatotherguy]

an excellent product is Motorspray satin black, it is a real satin finish(not flat) i have used it on plastic but not sure how it would go on a dash pad,maybe try it on an old arm rest first

[Doug]

Thanks for that, I will look into it, is it very expensive?

[thatotherguy]

only about $10-15 from sprint auto parts in an aerosol or you can buy it in a tin to use in a spray gun,I have also used VHT vinyl paint with good results but i think it is more glossy

[Doug]

Thanks for your help

[Taily]

Whatever you use just make sure you follow the instructions on the can and also make really sure that the item is very very clean and clear of any grease and oil (including fingerprints!). Don't lay it on too thick and you let it dry off for at least the recommended time. Have seen just as many good results as bad, possibly more to do with the amount of preparation put into them. Some people swear that a very small amount of thinners in a large rag very lightly wiped over whatever it is you're about to spray is very good in getting the surface tacky enough for the dye to take well to. I wouldn't recommend getting to heavy with the thinners though as you may find an adverse reaction with the plastic trim if you do...

[thatotherguy]

Agree,there is also a milder wax and grease remover you can buy but most places only sell the harsh one

[jennie285]

We painted all our dashes and armrests consoles etc. did what Taily suggested with thinners to get them tacky. The only problem we had was that white stuff like sand came through as we didn't mix it and strain correctly the first time. Have a look at my interior thread and you will see the result. Of painting. I must admit the c not the v which is the hard plastic dashes came out loads better. (the commodore hard plastic) they are incorrect but not cracked (used in yellow van and ute)