Iowabucks

Hey everyone, I finally got me a 2013 FX4 and I have a couple questions about the grill and inserts. I am a DIY guy and want the front end on my F150 to look right.


I have the basic flat black grill on my silver truck, but want to get a grill like the one pictured. My F150 is in silver though, not black. But I want to paint it body color. If I purchased the grill in the picture, it would be chrome. Would I be able to sand it down and have a body shop paint it body color? I imagine chrome is not the best surface to start with, but could it be sanded down to produce a suitable base to paint to?


Also, where can I find the insert below the bumper as in the picture provided? Mine is just an open space...for now.


Thx.Jerry.

gDMJoe

For both/either grilles ..... 2011 or 2012 Harley Davidson F-150.

NOTE: The upper grille with have the chrome bars and the surround is PTM (Paint To Match).
.

FordEver

Not really answering your question, but I would buy a grille insert from a 2014 STX Sport. Its black and looks very similar, if not the same as a Harley grille. Since its black, it would suit your FX4...



Just my $0.02...


As for the lower portion, its a different bumper as well as the insert. Lotsa $$$$$$

RogueGT

Depending on your truck (ECO or Non-ECO) there is a company that makes various bars for the lower grill piece. Even with the 5.0L you can adopt the ECO license plate modification and use the bars.
http://boost-bars.com/

FordEver

There are several... Here is mine

21RRF150

iTrader: (1)

As mentioned that is a Harley grille. If you buy that, the surround will come ptm.


But if you buy a chrome 6 bar, and want to paint the surround, yes check this thread I did... https://www.f150forum.com/f116/how-p...203305/index5/


Hard part is finding a body shop that will do it. Many won't do it because chrome is not considered a "suitable substrate," therefore they can't warranty it.

NASSTY

The upper grill is Lotsa $$$$$ too. http://stores.revolutionparts.com/ta...%2A8200%2ABPTM

STingray1300

While the best option is to buy a non-chrome grill, you can certainly beat the chrome buy bead-blasting it. Remember, the "chrome" is chrome plated plastic. I.e., it will come off pretty easily. Agreed, you do NOT want to paint over chrome without a serious level of etching.

Great grill selection though!

21RRF150

iTrader: (1)

You do not need to blast it off, you can paint over chrome and have it last. I do it nearly daily. I prove how in the link I posted. I said what I did, because I know how the old school of auto body is.

FordEver

What I don't get is, if the "insert" is removable (what an insert is) then why can't ya buy it without the surround??? Doesn't make sense to me.