Re: [DML] painting louver

["Walter" <Whalt@xxxx>]

***** Moderator's Note
As with any automotive refinishing project, proper surface
preparation and the correct tools are an important part of
success. Consult with an autobody specialist before attempting
any large-surface restoration for the proper techniques and tools.
*****

Every repainted louver I have seen didn't look good. I think the problem
starts from painting over Armor-all with the 'fish eye' effect coming
through. Another mistake I have seen is people using a gloss paint. Gloss
paint makes imperfections show up all the more. Sanding before you start
makes it worse. The better sanded areas are more gloss and look uneven. I
think the only way to get a good paint job on a greasy louver is to totally
sand everything down, use a textured primer to match the original texture
and then cover it with a flat black top coat. Maybe you could remove the
grease by spraying it down with a few cans of disc brake cleaner or engine
degreaser.

Instead of paint, maybe you could looking into finding a good oil based ink
or dye that is weather proof. I used a laundry marker with great success to
touch up small areas on my louvers. Maybe something like what is used in a
laundry marker or a black leather dye would work. If your louver is already
saturated with Armor-all, then maybe fight fire with fire and give it a good
rub down with black shoe polish. Ha! Don't knock it. It just might beat
painting it.

Walt Tampa, FL