DIY: How to Plasti Dip Vehicle Grills

Difficulty Level

Tools/Supplies Needed:

• Plasti Dip
• isopropyl/rubbing alcohol
• lint free cloth
• tape
• paper/plasti/cardboard

Procedure:

• wash your vehicle which will remove any dirt, dust, or bug stains on your vehicle which could affect the adhesion or surface finish
• ensure that the area has fully dried
• wipe down the grill using isopropyl/rubbing alcohol which will remove any reside left over from soap, bugs, dirt, or even oil from our skin
• apply some kind of barrier behind the grill which will prevent overspray from getting on any objects behind the grill such as the radiator
• materials which can be used for a barrier would be cardboard, paper, tape, and plastic
• tape off the areas around the outside of the grill on the hood
• leave about an inch gap of exposed paint around the grill, then the rest will be masked off with tape and paper
• overspray from plasti dip can be easily removed by a microfiber cloth
• wipe down the grill again with isopropyl/rubbing alcohol just to be sure there isn't any contaminants on the surface
• shake the can according to the instructions on the side of the can
• apply the first coat, start with the harder to work areas
• when starting with your first coat, only lightly apply the product on
• allow 5-10min depending on climate or weather for the next coat
• apply the second coat, still focusing on the harder to reach areas and then allow it to setup before the next coat
• for the third coat, we can then focus on the more exposed areas, again allow it to setup before the next coat
• apply a forth coat which may or may not be your final coat depending on he coverage
• when applying a final coat, this does need to be a thicker coat which will allow for a smooth non textured finish
• be sure to apply it a little thicker on the adjacent areas we will be pealing after as it does make it easier to remove
• allow the plasti dip to somewhat cure before removing the tape or access material on the paint which will dependant on your climate as you how fast it dries
• I left mine for about 45min and it was still slightly soft
• if the coating is still soft, it does make it harder to remove as it will keep breaking and won't come off in one solid piece
• start by removing the paper
• then start to pull the tape up and the Plasti Dip will be most likely attached to the tape which will peal up and give you a starting edge
• if not, just roll the edge with your finger
• don't forget to remove the barrier behind the grill as well
• allow the product to fully cure for about 12hrs, again this is dependant on your climate as to how quick it will cure
• I did however start driving my car the next day with no issues

Video tutorial on how to apply Plasti Dip to your vehicle's grills. This tutorial does not involve sanding down the existing finish on the grill, therefore it can be removed as if it never existed. Grill designs will vary and this will affect some application techniques slightly. Glossifier is not used here, but can be applied if you wish, I am simply using a satin black Plasti Dip. About 1/3 of the can was used here. The amount of Plasti Dip will vary depending on the size of your grills, along with the complexity. Removing the grills isn't necessary as well. This particular tutorial was done on a 1997 BMW 540i.