Sunday, December 8, 2013
How to Paint a Replacement Kool Vue Mirror
Car mirrors can endure a lot of damage, even in normal driving conditions. When a broken mirror must be replaced, they often come unpainted and must be painted before installation. Many replacement mirrors are manufactured by Kool Vue, so if you purchase a Kool Vue mirror its important to know the proper way to paint it for the best results.
Instructions
- 1
Cover the glass portion of the replacement Kool Vue mirror with newsprint.
2Secure the newsprint in place with masking tape.
3Clean the entire surface of the plastic to be painted with mineral spirits applied with a clean lint-free cloth. Allow the mineral spirits to dry completely before continuing.
4Sand the entire surface of the plastic to be painted with 800 grit sandpaper and water. Keep the sanding surface moist as dry sandpaper can damage the plastic.
5Wipe away any excess sanding debris with a clean lint-free cloth.
6Apply plastic primer, also called "adhesion promote," to the entire surface to be painted. Allow the primer to dry fully according to manufacturer instructions.
7Apply a second coat of plastic primer to the entire surface to be painted. Allow the primer to dry fully according to manufacturer instructions.
8Paint the entire surface of the plastic to be painted with automotive paint. Allow the paint to dry fully according to manufacturer instructions.
9Remove the masking tape and newsprint from the glass portion of the mirror.