Auto body repair & detailing: bumper painting

Question
hello,

My 2004 Buick, bumper was scraped on one corner.

How should I touch up the paint and what type of paint should I use?

Thanks,Jim

Answer
Hi Jim....These are the steps and materials I would recommend for your particular bumper spot in repair.

Materials:
180, 280, 320, 400 grit sandpaper
Small flexible sanding block
3/4" masking tape
Spray can of plastic primer
Masking paper
Small bottle of wax and grease remover
Dupli-Color color match paint   (The paint code for most GM vehicles is usually found in the glove box or in the trunk. It should start with "WA" Example: WA8764


First off, start by wiping down the repair area with the wax and grease remover, as to not embed dirt and other contaminants into the bumper cover when sanding. Next, start sanding with 180 using the block, then graduate to 280 then 320 until the surface is smooth. (If the bumper has deep gouges that can't be sanded out, you will need to fill them with a plastic filler.) Once you are satisfied with your prep repair, clean the area again with the wax and grease remover, mask off the area at least 1 foot past the area that requires paint, (if possible), then apply the primer in multiple light coats, allowing each coat to dry before adding the next. When spraying the primer, spray parallel to the repair area at a distance of about 8 to 10 inches away, and arcing slightly outward at the end of your pass. Try to keep the primed area as small as possible. After the primer has completely dried, sand the primer with the 400 grit until you are satisfied the area is smooth. Lastly, wipe the area down once again. In regards to painting, the exact same spraying technique is used, you will just need to extend each additional pass/coat by 1 or 2 inches. This technique will help blend the existing and repair areas together color wise.

Hope this helps you out....If you have any other questions, please drop me another line....Thanks....Dave.