Want to paint my front lower valance

Axxlrod · October 1, 2003

I was looking at my Yukon the other day, and noticed that the front lower valance (or air dam) sticks out like a sore thumb. That lighter grey color does not match anything on the rest of the the vehicle.

I'd like to have it painted to match the rest of the vehicle. The problem is it is made out of very bendable rubber type material. I am wondering if paint will even stick to it. Has anybody else done this?

Does anybody know of an aftermarket valance that looks the same as stock that is made out o firmer material that can be painted?

Thanks.

vortec4800 · October 1, 2003

If its the same on my truck (wouldn't imagine why it would be different) its just regular plastic. Sand it down to make it nice and rough, put some primer on it, sand it down again just in case, put another nice coat of primer on there and then paint. You should be good to go and it will look great!

Shaners · October 1, 2003

You will need to use a paint that has a flexible base in it so that it will resist cracking if the valance gets bumped.

I know it can be done, because there are some Avalanches running around that have had the cladding painted...

gator2511 · October 1, 2003

I have painted a lot of plastic parts in restoration projects. If You have a NAPA auto parts store near you they will fix you up with the bond enhancer, The proper base (flexible or rigid) and the color you want. If you don't have one of them near you, a professional auto paint store can do it. I'm going to paint the valance on my Silverado. If you don't get the good stuff it will peel like mad. After they set you up its really easy.

EXJAY · October 1, 2003

go to your auto store and get a can of dupli-color felxable bumper paint. ive only seen it in black but that stuff wont chip, peel or crack for nothing! i used it on my stock flairs and on the rubber trim quarter pannels on my old '90 jeep xj. thats the way to go if your looking for a black finish. btw. dont forget to sand the surface 1st !

miket · October 1, 2003

I used Dupli-color paint...I don't believe it was the flexible type...I color matched it as close as possible....I cleaned it thoroughly with wax and grease remover.....no primer and painted. It has not stuck as well as I would have liked.