Restore/Repaint 1971 Lower Side Molding

[mmanzanares18]

Hi everyone! First post so I don't really know what I am doing; really hope to get some good replies because I can not find anything searching on google. I am looking to repaint black on my lower trim/molding for my 1971 longbed c10 pickup. The trim is in really good condition, straight with minor chips on chrome lining. I plan to clean the chrome looking part and then tape it off really well. Then use black spray paint and then a clear coat to seal in the black and make it shine. This is way better than purchasing a new kit ($350-$500) and I sill have all the mounting hardware. I guess I am just asking if anyone has every done this, and if you could point me in the right direction for black spray paint and the clear. Of course I will first try on a extra piece before doing anything.

Thank you! I just turned 17 and purchased the truck this past october and hope to have it ready by the time school starts. I have been working with a friend to mechanically restore it and get a daily driver exterior job. No more than $6000 has been spent and I plan to purchase about $700 of random parts including a new rear bumper.

[DT1]

Hi, and welcome. It's great to see younger folk interested in these trucks. I'm currently restoring a 72 with my 15 YO Grandson. The trim can be cleaned up and repainted but it's not a very easy task, but it's well worth the effort. The original stuff has a clear anodizing that will have to be removed before you start buffing it up. You can strip it with of solution of Sodium Hydroxide (Lye) and water. The lye can be got from EBAY. Some guys on this board have used other stuff like Greased Lightning or EZ-OFF oven cleaner but I've not had good results with it. I use a red Scotch Brite pad with my solution. A little scrubbing will completely strip the anodizing off. To buff it out, I stack three Scotch Bright pads that I cut into 6 inch diameter disks and stack together. This takes the heavy scratches off and puts an even sheen on it. I change to a denim buffing wheel and cutting compound to bring back the shine. You can use just about any black paint followed up with a clear coat. I use SEM Trim black and a good automotive clear coat. These pictures are from my 71 that was done a few years ago and the trim still looks a good as new. You may PM me if you need more detail. Good luck!

[kingNothing]

DT1, is the woodgrain new? If so where can you get it at?

[Mapearso]

you can get the new woodgrain tape from LMC. Others may have it as well...

[jocko]

Have you had any issues with the sem paint peeling or flaking off the metal?

[DT1]

Originally Posted by jocko

Have you had any issues with the sem paint peeling or flaking off the metal?

Oh Yea, I forgot to mention...Before I applied the trim paint or clear coat, I wiped it down with a lint free cloth wetted with acetone. After masking, I applied SEM rattle can, metal etching primer (Very light coat) to the area to be sprayed black. Then, after putting the black on, I applied the clear to the entire thing. It's been around five years now and it still looks great.

[KY_GMC]

I'm in the middle of doing the same thing on my 72 GMC Super Custom.

I have been using either Easy Off or Hair and Grease Drain cleaner with good results to remove the clear anodizing.

Also, get some 1/4" vinyl pin-striping tape for masking the lines. It is a lot easier to form straight lines that the paper tape and it creates a sharp paint edge. Just remember to stretch the tape as you put it down. Takes some time learning the technique, but it will give you great results. Also, remove the tape right after you are down painting.

Also, for a durable finish, look at some of the 1K paint in spray cans. They have an adjustable nozzle spray pattern that helps get the paint where you need it.

[mmanzanares18]

WOW! Thanks for the great replies guys DT1 i will probably follow those directions closely. I'll let you know how its going and then post pics of the truck when it comes back from paint and body if you all would like. Thanks again!

[35boulder]

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[mmanzanares18]

One more question anyone can answer. I was just wondering what black trim finish would look the best and most original? SEM in black have satin, jet, gloss, charcoal metallic, and regular black.

[KY_GMC]

I am using Spray Max 1K Trim Paint Satin Black for my trim. It is a durable finish and the satin looks good against the painted body.

[mmanzanares18]

Hey Guys! I know it's been a minute I just wanted to give an update on the project. I completed it about a month ago along with the rest of the truck (it's never completed but for now until I start working again) just in time for school!