How To Paint a Car Hood
A faded car hood can make your otherwise nice car look old and dated. Fading on the hood of a car is common, and happens most often in hot areas that have lots of direct sunlight. The UV rays in the sun along with other weather related elements can damage the surface of the hood requiring the need for repainting. You can easily do this yourself to restore your car to a sparkling finish.
- Tape off all areas surrounding the hood, and then cover the windshield with newspaper and secure with masking tape. Be sure to cover any area that is close enough to the hood to be susceptible to paint spray or fine particles which can settle on other painted surfaces.
- Sand the hood's surface using a medium grit sand paper. You can either use an electric sander or sand the surface by hand, it is up to you. However, ensure that you remove any minor nicks or scratches in the body surface during the sanding process.
- Clean the hood with a mild detergent and a grease remover thoroughly to ensure that all dirt, debris and grease have been removed completely from the surface of the hood.
- Apply auto primer in a thin layer on the entire surface of the hood. Be sure to keep your nozzle at least six inches from the hood's surface to prevent drips. You want to paint in long even lines for a smooth, even coat.
- Allow the first coat of primer to dry for about one hour or until it is dry to the touch. The time needed will vary depending on the temperature and amount of ventilation in the garage.
- Apply a second coat of primer using the same long, even strokes. Continue until the hood's surface has two thin coats of primer.
- Apply your paint to the hood using the same technique that you used to apply the primer. Remember the key to an even paint job is to apply numerous thin coats for even coverage.
- Apply two coats of clear auto paint sealant to the paint once it has dried thoroughly. You should wait for at least an hour between coats to allow the first coat of the sealant to dry to the touch.
- Allow the entire paint job to cure for 24 hours, and then remove the masking tape and newspaper that are in place.
- Your job is complete, take a look at your beautiful new hood and be proud of a job well done!