Getting Paint to Stick to my C2 Radio Side Panels

[Fred M.]

Need to know the secret to getting paint to stick to the fiberglass radio side panels and quarter panels (behind each seat) on my C2 convertible. I sanded them down to the bare fiberglass but my red Krylon (usually sticks to anything) just pools. Re-sanded and tried primer, same result. I've been told it may be because someone in the past may have applied a silicon base cleaner when detailing the car. Got all panels back down to the fiberglass now. My question is should I apply a layer of gel coat to form a base that paint with adhere to? If not, I'm wide open to suggestions. As always, a hearty thanks to those who take the time to read and respond.

[Michael H.]

Re: Getting Paint to Stick to my C2 Radio Side Pan

Fred,

A thorough lacquer thinner wash should eliminate the silicone. Sanding alone will probably just move much of the silicone down into the glass. Hope this helps.

[Scott Marzahl]

Re: Getting Paint to Stick to my C2 Radio Side Pan

After cleaning, you might want to try using Bulldog adhesion promoter if you are still having problems. It comes in a rattle can at most body shop supply stores.

[Terry F.]

Re: Getting Paint to Stick to my C2 Radio Side Pan

Wash it with hot water and plain dish soap. Use a scrub brush. Rinse well. After it is dry, wipe down with lacqure thinner and paper towel. Go easy. Terry

[Allan J. Wicklund]

Re: Getting Paint to Stick to my C2 Radio Side Pan

Armor All at work here! Ouch! Your problem needs First Aid in the most extreme form. Acetone washing and washing with a harsh detergent. Try liquid TIDE. NO dishwashing products! Once it appears you have done your best, prime panels with Water Base primer. Build it up and then flash coat your first coat of interior paint and allow to dry. Continue with light coats until you achieve a fair amount of build up. Let it set for a day or two and Wet sand lightly. Important! After wet sanding let panel rest for 24 hours and final coat to your desired finish. Hope this works for you, Al W.

[Duke W.]

Re: Getting Paint to Stick to my C2 Radio Side Pan

Go to a PPG supplier and buy a can of Acryliclean. Other manufacturers offer the same product in other names. I think Dupont calls it Prepsol.

Duke

[William O.]

Re: Getting Paint to Stick to my C2 Radio Side Pan

After all of the prep work, primer, lighly sand and then paint.