Black Out Trim

[86 TR]

What did GM originally use for coating on the blackout trim?? Like the windshield moldings, rear window moldings, and b pillar moldings, etc..

Is it powercoated?? Or is it painted??

What have you guys used to restore it other than finding some new trim.

[kh440]

I'm guessing it was some form of electrplating, because the finish does not come off with ANY chemical paint stripper (at least none that I have used). SEM trim black is arguably the best as far as matching the original finish: not too flat, not too glossy.

[turbofish38]

GM used water based epoxy. I haven't found anybody that will refinish small batches correctly. Its the same process that is used on big glass doors and windows on office buildings. If you notice, on the original parts that if you look at them a certain way or in a certain light condition that they appear to have a brownish tint. Go down to your nearest strip mall, or maybe your job, and its the same thing on those black window and door frames.

[turbofish38]

Water based epoxy is also called fluorocarbon coating.

[86 TR]

How does the SEM trim paint hold up?? Does it fade out fast. Well I keep my car in the garage but just wondering. Especially on the wheel well moldings. I could see that chipping off very easily.

[kh440]

fade really isn't a problem. as far as paint chipping that's going to be a concern whatever finish you do.

[turbofish38]

You might check with your local powder coating shops. I saw a semi gloss black finish that would look good on moldings, especially the wheel opening moldings. And we all know that it is hard to chip powder coated parts.