Painting Fender Flares.. What paint?

[ceebs40]

Well, i've decided it's time to paint the faded fender flares. After thorough research through the forums, i'm unable to find an answer to my question:

1. What paint do you guys/gals recommend? I've heard a few things about Rust-O-Lieum, but it seems that the better product is SEM (according to a auto paint supply shop).

2. Is the color just a flat black? Only reason I ask is because the fenders look to have a grayish tent to them (probably due to age, sun, etc.).

Below are a couple photos, one with them on, and one with them off. I plan to sand with 300 or so grit, then a wet sand with the same grit, dawn soap to remove any grease, and let dry.

Any words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated! :guitar3:

 

[ceebs40]

This is what i've been looking at...

SEM Products - Catalog - BUMPER COATER & FLEXIBLE BUMPER COATER

 

[RonMAIDEN]

I used a bumper coating as the main paint instead of traditional paint since it should hold up better and I didn't want a real glossy look to them. I cleaned them with the prep spray and then used a solid coat of adhesion promotor and then laid down 5 coats of the bumper coating. Came out looking close to OEM but if it fails to hold I will give straight paint a try but so far they look good after a few months and a couple of snowstorms. I do still need to try it on the lower valence but that'll have to wait til spring.

 

[ceebs40]

@RonMAIDEN - That looks real nice. So Dupli-Color is what you went with.

It does look very close to OEM. I spoke with a SEM rep, and he said the black was more of a satin as opposed to a flat, but not a gloss. I'm a little worried it may be too glossy..

Overall very nice job. Thanks for the response.

I have one vote for Dupli-Color, anyone else?

 

[Baja Runner]

Dupli-Color is some of the best products you can buy, IMO. Aside from profesional grade stuff.

 

[BrianSD_42]

I used SEM on my trim/bumper but they did not sell duplicolor where I bought my paint. They are prob equal is terms of quality.

is it true that OEM SR5 flares cost about $100 - $150? if so then just buy new ones.

TRUST ME, that rattle can paint will fade in 1-2 years or sooner! depending on where you live.

 

[ceebs40]

I used SEM on my trim/bumper but they did not sell duplicolor where I bought my paint. They are prob equal is terms of quality.

is it true that OEM SR5 flares cost about $100 - $150? if so then just buy new ones.

TRUST ME, that rattle can paint will fade in 1-2 years or sooner! depending on where you live.

No more than 1-2 years? I'd like to get more like 5-6. I haven't checked but i'd think all new are more around $300-450 directly from Toyota. I'll call tomorrow. :hunter:

 

[BrianSD_42]

well I am no expert but yes, I think if you paint it flat black without protective overcoat, getting 2 yrs without noticable fade would be quite good.

Also, I think it is the limited flares that are $500, not the SR5 but i cannot say for sure.

 

[RonMAIDEN]

IF you can find the smaller plastic SR5 flares from a dealer they will cost you easily north of $300 and they aren't readily in stock in most cases and even the used market isn't going to be cheap and another case if you can find them.

 

[tinman]

What about Krylon Fusion paint? I know several J**p guys that have gone that route, and say they've had good success. But I have no first-hand experience.

 

[maxspeed96ct]

I just installed my flares a few weeks ago. I was planning on going body color initially . But I think they are going to scuff easily. I plan on painting them and my lower front facia with spray bed liner. I already did my rocker panels after I removed my running boards . And it looks great..