I have just removed my drivers side B-Pillar, so I thought I would have a break and come and ask another dumb question before I get on with the other side.

If I decide paint them, I understand that Halfords Satin Black paint will be fine, but do I need to do any kind of prep work first?

Myself personally, I would be using a panel wipe 1st(Available from halfords in little cloths) to remove silicone from years of bumper black products,
then probably a 1000 wet n dry to gently prep the surface
then dry and then wipe again before spraying

Hi, can I just ask: What's a B-Pillar?

The vertical black strip between the front and back windows with 20v etc on it.....

The one between the A and C pillar.

lool

think they might look a bitt naff wrapped.

Whenever I hear "wrapping with carbon fiber (foil)" I think don't, it's fake and useless, but in the end I like it a bit like Abu-Dhabi&Dubai, all fake and artificial, but had fun staying there...

Yeah, I'm quickly going off the idea. Just ordered the satin black paint and prep wipes from Halfords.

Thanks! (I didn't know they were removable!!)

Thanks - I didn't know they were removable!!

I'd etch prime before adding a top coat. As stated clean, rub back a little with some wet and dry. Panel wipes to remove residue and dust, apply acid etch to obtain a good key and then flat that back using some wet and dry. Finally top coat it.

Don't forget to use etch primer.

Ah....erm, what happens if you sort of don't use etch primer?

Basically I have done what Bridges first recommended and the finish looks good. Should I expect it to fail quickly over time?

No, it will be good. a 1000 grit will give a mechanical bond. as it roughs it up and allows paint to interlock. If the paint had been corroded id have used a primer for sure.

if you do have issues then an etch is a possibility.

They come off quite easily in the event, for example, that you need to get at your locks. One bolt from the outside edge, two from the inside behind the window seal. I think there is a "howto" on it, it's a good section to browse.

From what I have been advised the job will work without etch primer, it's just it won't last as long! Just done the alloy rims without and counting the days......

That's not the "B" Pillar, that's just the door lock assembly. The B Pillar is the upright black panel in the section where the door striker sits. It's the one that has the 20v badges on it.

Door lock assemblies is next on my list of things to paint, followed by wing mirror surrounds, hopefully there is a How To on those too.

If you are ever in Malvern, pop around my house and I'll talk you through it. Have done both B pillars and wing mirrors before.

Plus you can have a cuppa while we talk

Very kind, thanks.

never had many issues without etch primer, used to spray cars for a living,

Good to hear.

Just out of interest (because it's too late now) How many coats do you recommend?

only one but if its a cold day a big coat if its a warm day you may get away with just a jacket

a big coat on a cold day,,, it could/will run, i advise 2-3 coats. not such an issue as black on black, always build coats light as prevents runs and adheres better.

Anyone try black boot polish on these? They look really dry and would absorb all the polish up will test on a small section and report back.

big coat on a cold day -

jokers

lol

R00