Car Body Panels, Paint Prep and Trim Supplies

Repair it, replace it or restyle it: the first call

Decide the job before choosing parts. Repair work needs consumables and tools: abrasive pads, sanders, a spray gun. Replacement work needs the exact part for your model, year and body style, because panels and trim change shape between generations. Restyling parts such as lips and body kits are listed with a fit position, for example front lower. Start with bumper lips and body kits for styling, or trim removal and body work tools for the repair side.

Unpainted parts and spray gear: what finishing demands

Many body parts arrive unpainted or in primer, so allow time for scuffing, an adhesion promoter on plastics, primer, color and clear coat. Spray gun tip size follows the material: thinner base coats and clear coat use smaller tips, while primer is sprayed through a larger one. The compressor must supply at least the air volume the gun's data sheet asks for. Some listings here are heavy-equipment filters and spares rather than bodywork items, so read the part number and application.

Questions about Car Body Panels, Paint Prep and Trim Supplies

Do I need to paint a new bumper lip?

Many lips are sold unpainted in black polyurethane. They can be installed as supplied, but most owners paint them to match the body. Scuff, clean and prime plastic parts first so the paint grips.

What spray gun tip size should I use?

As a rule, tips around 1.3 to 1.4 mm suit base coat and clear coat, while primer surfacers usually need about 1.7 mm or larger. The paint maker's data sheet gives the exact recommendation.

Why use nylon trim tools instead of a screwdriver?

Plastic pry tools spread force and are softer than paint and panels, so they lift clips and moldings without gouging. A steel screwdriver concentrates force and often leaves marks or breaks the clip.