QuestionQUESTION: I have a 1994 Chevrolet 3500. The paint on the roof, hood and front fenders is peeling or flaking off the vehicle. It seems to be doing this down to a green/gray coating. I have been told this is galvanize coating GM used for a few years. None of the 'bare' spots are rusting. Is there a way to stop this and is there any thing special that needs to be done before re-coating?
ANSWER: Hey jeff. There is no way to stop this, the damage is already done. The grey/green coating is called ELPO its an electrically applied primer. The paint condition is called delamination. There is nothing special that needs done before it's repainted, but it's important to try to save as much of the gray-green primer as possible. I'ts stuck to the steel like stink on poo. I'ts peeling because GM thought they didn't need to apply a second prime coat over the elpo, so several million cars peeled after a few years. I bet the guy who decieded it didn't need the extra primer is now CEO of General Motors, with the way this screwy world works. Anyway, the body shop will know what to do- but insist they don't strip the elpo off. Just the peeling paint. Bill
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QUESTION: Bill,
Thanks so much. This is what I was afraid of. I am doing the work myself and have some limited experience from years ago with a 69 Mustang fast back (had great results). I have access to a full body shop of tools and a paint booth. I have several dings to repair and am spotting them in for protection for the time being but plan to do a full body shoot in the end.
Will ALL of the old paint need to be removed to stop the delaminating or just where it is already peeled? Also what would you recommend to use for paint (Enamel, Lacquer, Base-Coat/Clear-Coat...)as a novice? I am looking to end up with a good finish but durability is the highest priority (she ain't no hot rod! Just a trailer tow vehicle.)
AnswerUse a razor blade knife, the type that uses a single edge safety blade, hold it almost parallel to the surface, and CAREFULLY scrape off the old;d paint until it stops. Try to avoid gouging the elpo, don't force the razor blade. Once the peeling stops, feather the old paint edge down with 150, followed by 320. Then, 320 down the elpo just until the shine disappears. Be sure to remove any stone chips or razor gouges. Use a 2 part primer surfacer over the entire truck, then you can wet sand with 600, or dry sand with a DA and 400 grit paper. It's up to you what to use to paint it. I would personally suggest single stage acrylic enamel just for it's ease of use. Be sure to use enamel hardener, the paint will last much longer, and look better. It will be the best 25 bucks you ever spent. bill
