RPM

Considering painting the LeMans stripes (either a dark charcoal or satin silver) on my Tungsten GT. The painter says he can't see why the covers must come off, just the grilles and the spoiler. So, why are these parts removed for painting?

parrotheadGT

I'm interested to know as well.....I'm still debating between vinyl and paint.......

NewEdgePerf

If paint is done right when applied, it should never need repainted, except for stone chips. Vinyl will need replaced after a number of years. It will last longer on a garage kept car than one that stays out in the weather.

I have a car with vinyl graphics on it for my business, it is never garaged, and after 3 years it is shrinking and starting to curl in spots.

So if you are sure about your stripes and colors, paint maybe the best way to go!

Food for thought!

Tony D

StangNut

Because of the "crease" or "line" where the cover meets the body it's impossible to get a clean edge on the stripe. It would be a very small area and most people would never notice it, but if you're picky, take it somewhere else. If this guys doesn't understand why they need to be removed or just doesn't care enough, I wouldn't want him painting my car... but I'm VERY picky.

blackgt05

I just had my stripes painted a few weeks ago and they DID take off the bumper covers, there explanation was "for a factory looking job" I am very pleased. Also for the rear bumper they cannot get to the area under the trunk lid without either painting with trunk up or not covering. My body shop said it was easier really than trying to tape up more stuff. Also I would get them to clearcoat over the entire body panels being striped, or or you will see a more visible line at edge of stripes if they only clear the stripes. Here is liink to my pics. http://forums.bradbarnett.net/showthread.php?t=47063

OKCMustangGT

Yea my painter said the same thing, he won't paint a car any other way than to remove all the bumbers etc. Allows them to get all the areas and makes it look like "factory"
Painters that do high quality jobs will always do it that way.