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Best Masking Tape/Technique for Clean Paint Line

Started by Floyd, June 04, 2020, 06:29:53 PM

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Floyd

I'm getting ready to spray some new paint on my 70 Challenger taillight bezels.  I did a test run on an extra bezel and got a less than perfect masking line.  Can I get some recommendations on a good masking tape for this kind of work and and tips/techniques to get a clean line when finished.

I used basic blue tape which was probably my first mistake.  Is the a good choice for precision masking?

https://www.amazon.com/3M-06525-Yard-Precision-Masking/dp/B00DTLS0QI/ref=pd_sim_263_3/139-5041310-0536702?

Thanks!

1 Wild R/T


Floyd

Thanks, how about drying time.  Better to pull off sooner or later? I'm using SEM self etch primer and Trim Black.  I did a little fine steel wool buff but I'm thinking the chrome is probably a little more challenging for paint adhesion.


B5fourspeed

I would also use  an Adhesive promoter.Sems trim black dries to the touch in minutes after spraying.

1 Wild R/T

I like to peel the tape pretty quick, if you wait it tends to "fracture" the paint at the edge... Pull it to early & it can bleed... So give it a little time but not more than 15-20 minutes.... Bend the tape back over itself and angle away from the paint...

On chrome etching primer helps with getting a good bond..

Marty

Quote from: 1 Wild R/T on June 04, 2020, 06:36:10 PM
You want Fine Line tape...

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0082LHX3G/ref=sr_1_3?crid=ZIF8ZEPF62YQ&dchild=1&keywords=fine+line+tape&qid=1591320909&sprefix=fine+line+%2Caps%2C211&sr=8-3

You can use generic tape for the bulk of masking but for a crisp line use the fine line..

This and Adhesion Promoter. "Bulldog." If you prime first you may see the primer at the paint edge once you pull the tape.

Floyd

Thanks- I'm using SEM paints, self-etch primer and Trim Black.  SEM has a couple adhesion promoters.  Would I be better off sticking with the SEM product line?  Also, do I use the adhesion promoter and the primer, or do I skip the self-etch? 


anlauto

Quote from: 1 Wild R/T on June 04, 2020, 10:26:56 PM
I like to peel the tape pretty quick, if you wait it tends to "fracture" the paint at the edge... Pull it to early & it can bleed... So give it a little time but not more than 15-20 minutes.... Bend the tape back over itself and angle away from the paint...

On chrome etching primer helps with getting a good bond..

Mr. Wild has saved me lots of typing, :worship:  I would have the exact same recommendation including using the 3M vinyl pin stripe tape....it's great stuff  :bigthumb:  I would scuff the chrome as well, I'm not a big fan of using primers.
I've taught you everything you know....but I haven't taught you everything I know....
Check out my web site ....  Alan Gallant Automotive Restoration

71383bee

I just did my taillights.  I used the yellow Frog Tape for delicate surfaces.  I really liked the results.  It's pretty tacky but didn't peel the surface off.  I didn't notice any bleeding.  Any mars were more of a result of my trimming abilities.  It's readily available at most hardware stores.  I got mine from menards.  I used a urethane based primer then hit it with paint. 

I peeled it pretty quickly.  Roughly a half hour at the most. 
73 Challenger Rallye - 340 4 speed - K6 w/ White Top
70 Challenger Convertible - 318 Auto - K5 w/ White Top