Learning About Header and Exhaust Upgrades

Remove Minor Rust From A Vintage Automobile Hood And Add Paint To Areas In Need

by Jesus Turner

If you purchased a vintage automobile and have recently installed a replacement hood on it that has some minor rust on its surface, complete the repair project below. Once the vehicle is rust-free, you can add touch up primer and paint to the spots that were sanded in order to match the appearance of the hood with the rest of the automobile.

Materials

  • power sander
  • sandpaper
  • emery cloth
  • water hose
  • detergent (designed for automobiles)
  • sponge
  • touch up primer marker
  • touch up paint (with applicator)
  • clear vehicle compound
  • buffing mitten

Sand And Clean The Hood's Surface

Move an electric sander over the rust spots. Use consistent pressure as you move the tool across each surface. If there are rust spots in any small grooves, treat them with an emery cloth. Move the cloth briskly over each area. Once all of the rust has been eliminated, clean the hood with soapy water and a sponge. Rinse the hood off afterwards and wait for it to dry.

Apply Primer

Place pieces of masking tape over portions of the hood that are right next to the areas that are going to be primed so that primer does not accidentally get on them. Mix the contents in a primer marker by shaking it vigorously for a few seconds. Move the tip of the marker against each area in need of primer. Try to apply the primer as evenly as possible. If too much primer is applied to any of the spots, use a soft cloth to lightly dab each one. Wait for the primer to dry.

Apply Paint And Compound

Apply touch up paint that has been mixed with a small applicator brush. After the paint dries, add an additional coat if the color of the paint isn't as dark as the rest of the hood. Add as many coats of paint as needed until the hood has a uniform appearance. Pour a small amount of clear vehicle compound onto a buffing mitten. Use circular movements as you apply the mitten to the freshly-painted spots.

Clear vehicle compound will help soften the appearance of the fresh paint so that its edges mesh well with the rest of the hood. Add more compound to the mitten if it is needed. Once you have rubbed all of the painted areas, remove excess polish with a lint-free cloth and the strips of tape that are on the hood.

For more information, contact local professionals like Reggie's Garage.

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