After 7 years and close to 130k miles, it was time that the OEM covers got a little touch up. I really like the OEM black/texture and how it works with the red, and my powdercoated intake manifold. So the hardest part is find the correct paint that is not too glossy, or too flat.

(note this should be done on a clear, dry, and not too windy day to avoid overspray...note on that later)

<img src="http://images25.fotki.com/v944/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120357-vi.jpg">

<img src="http://images26.fotki.com/v933/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120358-vi.jpg">

First the prep....remove the engine covers and clean with simple green and water mixture. I use 2 parts water to 1 part simple green on this as i wanted the cleanest surface possible.

<img src="http://images26.fotki.com/v910/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120341-vi.jpg">

Here is what they look like, clean. Note the little bit of grayness to these...

<img src="http://images26.fotki.com/v935/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120360-vi.jpg">

Second, (mask with painters tape where needed) apply paint LIGHTLY and evenly....there is no real need to sand with this surface if it is clean. Pay special attention to the nicks and scratches on your covers...with this paint there is no need to feel, as it is near impossible to see the where they were before..

<img src="http://images25.fotki.com/v948/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120364-vi.jpg">


Third....this paint dries pretty quickly. I was able to pick it up and handle this fairly quickly....

<img src="http://images26.fotki.com/v934/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120354-vi.jpg">

I then figured i was on a roll, and decided to do the cowl beneath the windshield as that was REALLY bad!!!
Instead of fully removing it, I decided to mask it off with some newspaper, and just to be very careful...

Masked and ready to go...

<img src="http://images26.fotki.com/v934/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120371-vi.jpg">

again...a light coat...and make sure it is not windy!!!

<img src="http://images25.fotki.com/v948/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120369-vi.jpg">

Finished off and re-installed

<img src="http://images26.fotki.com/v912/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120373-vi.jpg">

I also dremeled out the cover over the vin as it looked like hell....two things i am thinking to finish it off...either black hi-temp silicone and bond it to the body and leave it alone...or source some clear lexan/plastic and cover it again....
<img src="http://images26.fotki.com/v937/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120374-vi.jpg">

Finished up...and everything re-installed....
<img src="http://images26.fotki.com/v912/photos/8/89907/5158004/P7120377-vi.jpg">


While it is hard to really notice the difference in all of the pix, live it really stands out...All of the panels look brand new...now to see how long this paint lasts!!!!<ul><li><a href="http://public.fotki.com/TTinCT/tt_modifications-1/engine_mods/touching-up-the-eng/">http://public.fotki.com/TTinCT/tt_modifications-1/engine_mods/touching-up-the-eng/</a</li></ul>

 

nice!! I would like to do this to my entire car - body, top, rims and all. how many cans?

 

Looks great, and I bet it didn't even take that much time. *On the list*

 

of beer....then we will figure out the paint! ;-)

 

then painting them....;-)

 

... or you could just replace that top cowl. i recall picking one up for $50 or so new

 

tomorrow cork soaking bastage. I hope Phuc finds you at that Deeks Fest and tunes you up but good. Maybe Deek Leeker Lager is more your taste.....

 

I'll bring ya a few pieces to play with..
Looks good!

 

Looks good. I want to match the front most panel with the paint color.

 

Danke'!!! ;-)