repainting/ "re-blackening" the plastic D-board center bumper trim

[87-325ic]

should i go with that "restore the black trim" stuff they sell, i think Bondo makes it..

or should i sand it lightly and spray it black with some good trim paint (any brand/paint suggestions)

gonna be tucking soon, and i should do this first i believe..
Thanks.

[browntown]

VHT is popular around here.

[Sean]

You mean SEM Trim Paint? VHT is high temp paint. Not sure why you'd want that on trim. ;)

[browntown]

You mean SEM Trim Paint? VHT is high temp paint. Not sure why you'd want that on trim. ;)

you're right, momentary lapse.

[StereoInstaller1]

Get a gallon of "Wax and Grease Remover" from any body shop supply store, and some "3M Sctoch-Brite" pads from anywhere...gently scrub with the W&G stuff...it evaporates quickly, so be fast. Do a final wipe with W&GR, using a fresh, clean cloth, wiping in ONE DIRECTION ONLY (so you don't track filth over the clean) Quickly mask and spray.
SEM is the roxorz, but Dupli-Color (with the available "Adhesion Promotor" works well too) bumper trim spray is cool, and a perfect color.

Don't be too dissapointed if this becomes a yearly habit.

If you plan on painting the aluminum bumper too, that same tactic works OK, but I use a 3M aluminum surface prep tool, on a die grinder, with an air compressor...they last quite a while.

GL, HTH,
Luke

[87-325ic]

ok, thanks. so the wax and grease remover cleans it up nice, and evaporates quick,

as to leave a nicely clean surface in which to paint...

should i take it off the car first? i mean, black specked is not my look..

what exactly is SEM paint? is it a type? or a brand..

[cactusjacks1]

ok, thanks. so the wax and grease remover cleans it up nice, and evaporates quick,

as to leave a nicely clean surface in which to paint...

should i take it off the car first? i mean, black specked is not my look..

what exactly is SEM paint? is it a type? or a brand..

It's a brand - the color or label on the can is "Trim Black - 39143"

[87-325ic]

ok thanks...

wheres the best place to pick it up? im in NC.. i didnt see any at advanced auto, does walmart or Sears have it?

[StereoInstaller1]

Look up "Automotive Upholstery Supply" in the phone book.

[delphini]

DUDE, try looking at the llocal CARQUEST the one here in S.C. has an excellent paint section that will custom mix ANY color you want ,PPG paint.

[MR 325]

Aside from replacing the trim, SEM is your best bet.

I loves me my new bumper trim. :)

[nismoman]

where can you buy new trim from? does bmw still carry that shit?

[325iCabrio]

where can you buy new trim from? does bmw still carry that shit?

BavAuto carries it. I think Pelican Parts does too.

[Jand3rson]

When I painted my bumper trim, I simply cleaned all of it with hot soap and water, then with acetone. I then put about 4-5 coats of SEM on them and let dry for 24 hours. It's hard as a rock, and I've made 3 trips to Portland (160 miles), and not a chip or scratch to be found.