My '95 SC400 wiper arms and wiper brace [not the inserts] are fading and some of the area around the rivets is looking brown. Choices are:

1. Replace with OEM
2. Replace with after-market. Please suggest brand and type and would they need replacing the full arm.
3. Refinish, Please suggest prep - rust inhibiter - how keep the paint from biding the pivot points, and paint [brand, color, gloss level]
4. ?

Salim

 

I have the same issue on mine, been wondering the same thing. I was thinking of masking the area and using automotive paint form a local parts store in matte black since thats what the stock color is but id be interested to hear what other say.

 

New arms are around $90 each from the dealer, and the wiper brace with insert is around $20 each from the dealer.

The arms, I would repaint it with a matte black paint. Gloss isn't a good idea because it'll reflect light into your eyes. I would buy new wiper blades and braces.

Rust Removal: Loctite Naval Jelly
Paints: Rustoleum Primer, Rustoleum Matte Black, Rustoleum Matte Clear

Step 1: Remove arms from your car
Step 2: Use naval jelly if any rust exist (read the instructions carefully because it is an acid)
Step 3: Wash the arms thoroughly and sand off any loose paint and debris. Remember to scuff the entire arm, so the primer has something to adhere to
Step 4: Use a tack cloth to clean off the arms and then string the part up in the air (I would suggest the bolt side since it won't be visible from the outside)
Step 5: Shoot primer (following instructions)
Step 6: Shoot paint (following instructions)
Step 7: Shoot matte clear (following instructions)

The reason for stringing up the arm is so you can spray all 360 degrees. If you try doing this on the ground you'll have to flip the part which risk getting overspray everywhere. Remember to wear a respirator and gloves when working with the paint and naval jelly.

 

Thank you for the detailed response.

Salim