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The photos I'm posting doesn't do the final outcome justice. I used SEM 15243 Satin Black on the center console main surround, ash tray, shift boot base, and cup holder. These were all mismatched pieces, some glossy, some not, all originally black. The resulting finish matches very well to the OEM radio. It has a "satin" shine that's not too glossy and not a dull finish. It "looks correct," whatever that's supposed to mean. I cleaned with Simple Green, rinsed with water, roughed them with 600 sandpaper, rinsed with water again, then I used SEM Sand Free 38363. Yes, ironic to use "sand free" after sanding.
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Last edited by freakness; Apr 22, 2016 at 07:22 PM.
SEM has been around for along time.....tried and proven....
Which is exactly why it's the only one I considered initially. DupliColor's paint reputation is in the category of Krylon and Rustoleum, so I hadn't given it any thought. But, when I started seeing its vinyl products recommended as a toss-up with SEM by alleged pros and even highly trusted people I recognized on other forums, I had to give it a try. More options is a good thing. DupliColor may just be less tried but equally proven.
And I really, truly hate depending on a product that I can't buy locally. Especially something like a paint product that is super particular to weather conditions we rarely get around here. If I need to do touch-up work and have to wait for more SEM to arrive but miss the weather window, I'd be none too happy.
Originally Posted by freakness
I used SEM 15243 Satin Black on the center console main surround, ash tray, shift boot base, and cup holder. These were all mismatched pieces, some glossy, some not, all originally black. The resulting finish matches very well to the OEM radio.
That's the first I've seen of anyone recommending the Satin Black, but it makes sense if you were aiming to match the OEM head unit (which I don't have). Looks good.
Finally some weather conducive to painting today, so I finished up a spare center console as a test of the DupliColor Vinyl/Fabric dye. I know everyone is justifiably skeptical of the brand, but it came out great! It feels like a really durable coating, but longevity will obviously be the test.
I took off and cleaned the window trims tonight and will paint them tomorrow, then get some new pictures up. I think you guys will be impressed with how good the DupliColor looks, although I didn't set the console in the car to compare it to the factory black, so I may still eat my words... An added bonus to the DupliColor is, they don't make a line of cleaning and prep products for it, so they don't recommend any specific steps.
Oh, and here's a black interior conversion tip: A few of the tan items are actually just painted over black, such as the rear ashtray and the glove box assembly (below the fold-down door). A couple minutes of sanding the ashtray lid and it barely resembles a tan item. Of course, it would be difficult to get all the paint out of the textured grooves unless using a chemical stripper, but it would be a great starting point to a black paint job, since any chipping or fading would hardly be noticeable with a mostly black surface underneath.
The DupliColor Gloss Black is a bit shinier than the factory black, but close enough that you would think it had just been treated with ArmorAll...if you even noticed. I've read some people use #00 steel wool to dull it a bit. I might try that on an inconspicuous spot.
One can covered the center console and both window trims, doing roughly twice as many coats as suggested to make sure I got full coverage of all the little contours. All I've got left to do is the passenger quarter window trim.
You’re on the right track with the SEM setup, the key is really in the surface prep, especially for vinyl. The SEM Soap does a good job at lifting out oils and residues that regular cleaners often leave behind. Following that with Vinyl Prep helps soften the surface slightly so the dye bonds better. Acetone or thinner can be risky since they may dry out or damage softer vinyl over time.
A light scuff with a grey pad after cleaning is usually enough, sanding isn’t recommended for vinyl since it can leave uneven textures. For adhesion promoter, it’s optional if your parts aren’t plastic, but if any area transitions between vinyl and plastic trim, applying a light coat helps ensure even coverage and adhesion. Three cans should be plenty for what you’re covering unless you’re planning multiple thick coats.
When refinishing interior trims, consistent prep and patience between coats make the biggest difference. Professionals from Painting Service Singapore often stress the importance of proper cleaning and controlled layering to achieve that smooth, factory-like finish without over-saturating the surface. A steady approach and following the product’s drying intervals will give you the most durable result.
