CB350F Side Cover Badge Restoration HELP!!!

[Ragin6708]

I've recently had some time to work on a few meticulous projects that I've been putting off for a while now but I need some advice on process. I want to completely restore my original side cover badges without tainting the metallic plastic layer of the badge by removing paint. I don't really want to paint over the existing paint but if you can convince me otherwise I'll try to keep an open mind. If anyone can direct me to a previous thread or give me advice on the process they used to remove the paint without damaging the plastic it would be greatly appreciated. Also, I'd really like to see any of your finished products; before and after shots, things like that.

 

[carnivorous chicken]

I've used model airplane paint for these and small brush. Get some paint on the brush and it will fill out the corners, and you can wipe off whatever gets on the raised part. Can't tell the difference between repainted and new. And I always take off the old paint first with a dental pick so the new paint is even. Model airplane (or whatever, plastic model kit paint, so could be for anything) paints are so varied you can get pretty much an exact match.

 

[Ragin6708]

That's pretty much the plan... but some of this paint is just concrete! Is there a solvent out there that will take the paint off without eating the plastic? Also, do you recommend a specific brand vs. others? Or is Testors pretty much the jam?

 

[carnivorous chicken]

Just pick at it, it'll come out. And sure, Testors is good, but I use whatever is in there that matches.

 

[irk miller]

I use OneShot, which is what pinstripers and sign painters use. But Testors is definitely good. You're essentially looking for an alkyd enamel. There are many brands.

 

[Ragin6708]

That sounds good, I'll definitely check it out. Thanks for your input guys!

 

[Ragin6708]

Has anyone tried Castrol Super Clean?

 

[o1marc]

Are the badges plastic? If they were metal I would powder coat them.

 

[Distanceham]

I soaked my badges in some DOT 4 (I think) fluid for 24-36 hours. Softened the lettering paint up enough to scrape out with a toothpick. Didn't bother the factory black at all. I don't have pictures now, but will see if I can get some.

 

[Scruffy]

Testors and a toothpick. You can pop any truly stubborn paint loose with the tip of a #11 X-acto blade, then use the toothpick to drip paint into where you want it. If the badges are laying flat on a cardboard box or such, the paint will self level just fine. It even works over the old paint, it will flow over it and give you a clean, smooth finish.

Make sure the model paint is well shaken before you use it. You want it an even consistency, not chunky.

 

[Ragin6708]

Thanks a ton guys! I'll let you know how it all turns out