So I tried to PTM(Paint to match) my grill insert a while ago and it turned out terrible. It's very dull and doesn't match the paint at all. I was wondering if you guys could give me some tips to get a nice glossy finish. Also what kind of paint should I use to get a good finish? Should I clear coat it?

Or even better does anybody know a place that sells already glossy black grill shells?

I'm not very experienced with automotive painting so any help would be very appreciated

 

i did mine black to match and i used 3 coats of adhesion promoter, then 3-4 coats of black and then 3 coats of clear. thats where you are really gonna get the glossy look and help protect it as well. all i used was some of the duplicolor color match from orielys. i think u should be able to get it t any auto parts store tho.

 

Did you do any sanding or wet sanding? If so at what stage did you do what? Really new to this kind of painting not entirely sure on the best procedure

 

first off i did some wet sand with, i wanna say 500 or 600. real light just to get bugs that had flown into it and the plastic down pretty level. then did the layers of adhesion promoter for the time on the can, then the layers of black, let it sit and then hit it with clear. its held up great so far. mashed it many times and havent had any problems at all. i also did my lover valence the same way. took it apart all the way too. i got some pics in my build thread i think

 

I wet sand with mineral spirits and this,

http://www.micromark.com/micro-mesh-...-kit,7601.html

And get finishes like this on guitars I build.

 

i also forgot, after i sanded i used rubbing alcohol to clean it as it doesnt leave residue

 

Just scotch brite it, wipe it off, base coat and clear. Or take to a body shop

 

So doing it properly isn't the answer? Either do it half-assed or let someone else do it?

 

haha That's America for ya...

 

That is the proper procedure... And I'd prefer having it done right rather than spray canning it.