GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

PAINTING FLEXIBLE PLASTIC PARTS-REPAIR PROCEDURE

Models/Years ALL MODELS

In order to achieve a durable finish when painting flexible plastic exterior parts identified by standard symbol E/P or TPO, a special material and procedure is required. Some example parts.

Rear End Panel Front Fender Filler Rear Bumper Extension

The original factory applied paint used on these parts is, in most cases, baked elastomeric enamels. However, for repair, either a lacquer or enamel may be used along with an approved primer. The DuPont and Ditzler systems described in this bulletin can be used when painting such parts. Spot repair is not recommended.

CAUTION:

As with all paint systems using an additive containing isocyanates, it is mandatory that one of the following respirators or equivalent be run during the entire painting process: Willson Paint Respirator No. 122115 with R21 Cartridge and R15 Filter; 3M Paint Respirstor No. 6984 or No. 6986.

DuPont System

1. Clean the entire surface to be painted with 3919S Prepsol. Sand thoroughly with No. 400 sandpaper and reclean with 3812S enamel reducer.

2. Prime with 329-S Polypropylene Primer. Follow label directions for application.

Acrylic Lacquer

3. To two (2) parts paint, add one (1) part 355-S Flexible Additive and three (3) parts 3608-S Thinner. Mix and strain into spray cup ("Pot life" is 1 hour).

NOTE: In warm or humid weather, to increase pot life pre-thin 355-S first, then add to paint. If working with basecoat/clearcoat, add 355-S only into the clear Basecoat does not require 355-S.

Acrylic Enamel

4. Flexible additive not necessary. Mix eight (8) parts paint with one (1) part 792-S. Reduce 50% with 8034-S Reducer (1 part reducer - 2 parts paint).

NOTE: 355-S Flexible Additive may be used on crash parts in place of 792-S at same ratio.

5. With 35 pounds pressure at the gun, spray three (3) or four (4) wet coats to achieve good hiding. For metallics, spray a final mist coat.

6. Allow to cure two (2) to four (4) hours before handling. Clean equipment as soon as possible.

Ditzler System

1. Clean thoroughly with DX 330, Ditzler Wax and Grease Remover. Sand well with No. 400 sandpaper and reclean with DX 330.

2. Prime with DPX 800 Polypropylene Primer used as packaged. Air dry for 30 minutes.

3. Topcoat with two (2) or three (3) coats of Deltron Acrylic Urethane mixed with DX 369 Flexative and DAU catalyst as follows:

Solid Colors Metallic Colors ------------ --------------- Deltron Color (DAU) 2 parts 2 parts Deltron Catalyst (DAU-2) 1 part 1 part Flexative (DX 369) 1 part 1 part Reducer (DTU) 1 part 2 parts

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.