240SX Dashboard Finisher Remodeling

In this article we will be repainting and refinishing the dash trim to have a more unique interior. This will work on most Nissan 240SX, Sentra, Maxima, Altima, and Versa models that have removable trim panels.

Skill Level 2 of 5

Time Required 30 Mins. – 24Hrs. (Depending on amount of trim to be painted, and amount of paint applied and required curing time.)

Materials Required

A. 1-2 Cans "Bulldog Adhesion Promoter" Bulldog Adhesion Promoter link

B. 1-2 Cans Spray Primer For plastic interior pieces high quality primer isn’t really essential.

C. 2 Cans Of Desired Spray Paint Note: I used silver because I think it looks really clean with a black interior.

D. 2 Cans Clear Coat Same as for the primer, Here is an example

E. Sand paper I used 800 grit, worked very well.

F. Cleaning Supplies Soap, water, a rag- For cleaning.

Steps.

1. Removal: Take out whichever pieces you want to paint, and soak them for a few minutes. Rub down with a soapy cloth, then rinse off and dry.

2. Prep: Take your sand paper and rub down the painting surface of the plastic enough to slightly groove it, helps the primer to stick….wipe down with a wet cloth after this step and rinse/dry again. Repeat this step with the ultra fine sand paper too.

3. Bulldog Adhesion Promoter Spray a light coat over the painting surface of the plastic and let it set for 5-8 minutes. At that point, another coat should be applied and let to dry for 15 minutes.

4. Primer Note: Its very important that you prime the piece 15-20 minutes after applying the second coat of Bulldog, so the promoter is still sticky enough to make a difference. Light coats 12-18 inches away from the plastic seem to work best, do not concentrate spray on any piece for more than 2 seconds, or the primer will run. I suggest prepping/priming the entire front of the pieces you want, as well as the sides and enough of the back.

5. Paint Note: Once the primer dries, I would personally give it 2-3 hours before even touching to paint, you can start applying layers of paint…again 5-6 seems to be the magic number. Keep the nozzle at LEAST one foot from the plastic while painting, and make quick light coats to prevent pooling.

6. Clear Coat Note: More of a protection layer than anything, I would give the paint 2-3 hours to dry, then take the clear coat to it like the primer and paint.I find that three (3) were sufficient.Spray from one foot away, quick even coats.

7. Reassembly: After the recommended curing time ,once they’re dry enough to the touch that the plastic is not the LEAST bit sticky, its good to go in.

Results

Originally Written by gounc14