ok guys i know im probably re-posting this, but im to tired to finish searchin. i just ordered both of the pillar trim pices for my 82 ($13 a piece!) and they are paint to match, and the plastic part of the door panels is badly faded, i was wondering if you know if they make interior spray paint. :? i think they do but im not sure. if not would just regular old plastic spray paint work? or i know it would "work" but would you recomend it? thanks alot and sorry for re-post :oops: (im guessing)

There is several things on the market now. I use a spray called plastic prep that you spray on prior to spraying the color. Clean the plastic very well first.

You have already done what your going to do, but they do make several types of interior vinyl and plastic dyes. Like the previous post, Make sure your surface is clean and you shouldnt have a problem with peeling or scraping off the dye. Also there are some dyes that require a specific prep spray, otherwise you can use laqure thinner to soften up the plastic or vinyl. This will allow the dye to soak into the plastic or vinyl. Good luck with whatever you choose.

Just like the others mentioned, good preparation is important. After that, I've used flexible paint by SEM and their vinyl prep with luck on the dash, soft vinyl parts of my door panels, and the plastic trim. The stuff I used:

SEM Paint Stuff On El Camino Enrique (http://elcaminocentral.com/users/ponchovilla/Pics/paint%20001.jpg)

There is an excellent couple of pages in the GM Fisher Body manual on identifying and refinishing the various plastic trim pieces.
Most automotive supply stores can provide you with the correct color codes, plastic primers and flex, flattening agents.....in a nut shell here is the procedure,

1>Thorougly scrub the pieces in hot soapy water to remove the goo of the ages.
2>clean parts thoroughly with wax/grease remover to remove any oil, silicone based protectants such as armourall
3>Spray parts with plastic primer in light mist coats
4> Spray a few light mist coats to get color coverage but not too much that you lose the grain.
5> Spray a few light mist coats of clear with the proper amount of Flattening agent to protect the finish from rubbing off.

It may sound like a lot of work, but done properly it should look factory.
:cool:

what about seat belts...I have 32 year old black seat belts that have faded and need to be re-dyed....and I guess I should repaint the buckles while I am at it...

so is there a paint/dye and any special procedures or cautions I should know about?

SEM Vinyl and interior dye actuaully penetrated into the surface but I don't know if it would rub off you might want to get some and trya test patch first.

I have used the SEM Color Coat on my 82 interior. I used 15063 Burgundy which came very close to the original color. I have used it on the pillars and the door panels. It seems to be durable; however, a sharp object will scratch the color off. The finished job looks good.

They do make prep cleaning materials, but I used a mild soap and water to wash then final cleaning with windex and lint free rag or cloth.


Good luck.