re-Dye/paint interior or not?

[Tom L.]

Looking for some thoughts on this. Finally finished my carpet and I'm cleaning up the interior parts prior to installing them. the black isn't real sharp, almost dull. Is it advisable to paint or just let it ride. just concerned about flaking and the such down the road.

[Edward D.]

Re: re-Dye/paint interrior or not?

I assume you are talking about the black plastic trim parts. On those try a plastic surface conditioner/treatment conditioner like Mothers Back To Black. Don't paint unless its an originally painted part in which case SEM Trim Black works well. The spray "dye" all the corvette suppliers sell is actually a soft paint. This stuff can easily chip and peel if surface prep isn't perfect.

[Mark E.]

Re: re-Dye/paint interrior or not?

Have you tried a protectant product, like one from 303 or Meguiar's? If the finish isn't failing (peeling, flaking) it's worth a try. These products can improve a dull look.

[Tom L.]

Re: re-Dye/paint interrior or not?

Talking mostly about the vinyl covered pieces. And no have not tried any protectants. Just noticed how dirty and dull all of it was when I took it out into the daylight. I cleaned it today and it wasn't much better. I've done a few plastic parts and they look great, just not sure about the vinyl. Thanks!

[Mark E.]

Re: re-Dye/paint interrior or not?

Tom,

If the vinyl is not cracked or torn then definitely clean and treat it. Much of the dullness may actually be dirt build up that's hard to detect because of the black color.

For cleaning, a lot of detailers use dish soap diluted with warm water in a spray bottle. Use a soft brush to gently work it in. Old vinyl cracks easily so don't press much- be gentle.

Works great but may take several applications.

[Tom L.]

Re: re-Dye/paint interrior or not?

I used SEM soap to clean the vinyl, a big improvement but the color just didn't pop. I'll try some protectant and see. Thanks!

[Don L.]

Re: re-Dye/paint interrior or not?

I used SEM soap to clean the vinyl, a big improvement but the color just didn't pop. I'll try some protectant and see. Thanks!

[Tom L.]

Re: re-Dye/paint interrior or not?

Hi Don, I'm thinking the protectant will be OK. I never noticed how dirty all the behind the seat trim was until it saw daylight. Either you didn't notice when you saw the car at Carlisle OR you were polite and didn't say anything. I'm real bad about pics. Thought about taking them but didn't. I'll post some after pics if my brain remembers.

[Tom D.]

Re: re-Dye/paint interrior or not?

Let us know which protectant, if you do that. Thanks.