Transform Your Vehicle's Look: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Paint Over Bushwacker Rocker Panel Covers

by ECC PGAP on March 13, 2023 Categories: Blog

Are you tired of the dull, factory look of your vehicle? Upgrading your vehicle's appearance can be as simple as painting over your Bushwacker rocker panel covers. These covers not only protect your vehicle's undercarriage from mud, rocks, and debris but also give it a rugged, off-road look.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of painting over Bushwacker rocker panel covers to give your vehicle a new, personalized look. Follow these steps and give your vehicle a fresh makeover.

Step 1:Take off the covers

Follow these procedures to remove the Bushwacker Rocker Panel Covers and get them ready for painting:

  • Use a trim removal tool to gently pry the covers off the vehicle. Start at one end and work your way to the other.
  • Once the cover is removed, use a clean cloth and mild soap and water to clean it thoroughly. Be sure to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the cover.
  • Use a degreaser to remove any oils or waxes from the cover's surface. This step is critical to ensure that the paint adheres properly.
  • Use sandpaper or a sanding block to rough up the surface of the cover. This helps the primer and paint to adhere properly.
  • Wipe down the cover with a clean cloth to remove any sanding dust or debris.
  • Apply a coat of primer to the cover. This helps the paint to adhere and provides a smooth base for painting.
  • Allow the primer to dry completely, then apply several thin coats of paint. Be sure to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
  • Once the final coat of paint is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the finish.
  • Allow the clear coat to dry completely before reinstalling the cover on the vehicle.

Step 2:Make the covers clean

The procedure for cleaning Bushwacker rocker panel covers before painting is summarized as follows:

  • Remove any dirt or debris with a soft brush or cloth.
  • Use a mild soap and water solution to wash the covers thoroughly.
  • Rinse the covers with clean water and dry them completely with a towel or air dryer.
  • Use rubbing alcohol to remove any remaining dirt or grease.
  • Allow the covers to dry completely before painting.

Following these steps will help ensure that the covers are properly cleaned and ready for painting, which will result in a better overall finish.

Step 3:Covers should be sanded

The procedure for sanding the Bushwacker rocker panel covers before painting is described this way:

  • Use 220-grit sandpaper to sand the surface of the covers lightly. This will help remove any contaminants and create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to.
  • Wipe the covers with a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris.
  • Use 400-grit sandpaper to sand the covers again, this time more thoroughly. Be sure to sand in the direction of the grain or texture of the covers.
  • Wipe the covers with a tack cloth again to remove any dust or debris.

Following these steps will help create a smooth, even surface for the paint to adhere to and result in a better overall finish.

Step 4:Use a primer

Bushwacker Rocker Panel Covers Primer Application Instructions:

  • Clean the surface: Use soap and water to clean the surface of the Bushwacker rocker panel covers. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely.
  • Sand the surface: Use sandpaper to roughen up the surface of the covers. This will help the primer to adhere better. Wipe the surface with a tack cloth to remove any dust.
  • Mask off the area: Use masking tape to cover any areas you don't want to be primed. This includes the wheel wells, tires, and any other adjacent parts.
  • Shake the can: Shake the can of primer vigorously for at least one minute after you hear the mixing ball rattle.
  • Test spray: Test the spray on a piece of cardboard or scrap metal to ensure the nozzle is working properly.
  • Apply primer: Hold the can about 8-12 inches away from the surface and spray in a sweeping motion. Apply a thin, even coat of primer to the entire surface. Wait for the primer to dry completely before applying a second coat.
  • Sand the surface: Once the primer has dried, use a fine-grit sandpaper to sand the surface. This will help to smooth out any imperfections and create a smooth surface for the topcoat.
  • Clean the surface: Use a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris from the surface.

Your Bushwacker rocker panel covers are now ready for the topcoat.

Step 5:Use paint

How to Paint Bushwacker Rocker Panel Covers: A Step-by-Step Guide:

  • Choose the right paint for plastic surfaces.
  • Shake the can of paint vigorously.
  • Test spray to ensure the nozzle is working properly.
  • Apply a thin, even coat of paint in a sweeping motion.
  • Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying additional coats.
  • Lightly sand the surface between coats to help the next coat adhere better.
  • Apply additional coats as needed to achieve desired coverage and color.
  • Allow the paint to dry completely before handling or reinstalling the covers.
  • Reinstall the covers, making sure they are properly aligned and securely fastened.

Step 6:Put clear coat on

Detailed Instructions for Applying Clear Coat on Bushwacker Rocker Panel Covers

  • Choose the right clear coat: Select a clear coat that is compatible with the type of paint you used and designed for use on plastic surfaces.
  • Shake the can: Shake the can of clear coat vigorously for at least one minute after you hear the mixing ball rattle.
  • Test spray: Test the spray on a piece of cardboard or scrap metal to ensure the nozzle is working properly.
  • Apply clear coat: Hold the can about 8-12 inches away from the surface and spray in a sweeping motion. Apply a thin, even coat of clear coat to the entire surface. Wait for the clear coat to dry completely before applying a second coat.
  • Apply additional coats: Apply additional coats of clear coat as needed, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
  • Allow to dry: Once you have achieved the desired level of gloss, allow the clear coat to dry completely before handling or reinstalling the Bushwacker rocker panel covers.
  • Reinstall covers: Once the clear coat is completely dry, reinstall the Bushwacker rocker panel covers onto your vehicle, making sure they are properly aligned and securely fastened.

Your Bushwacker rocker panel covers should now look new and be protected from the elements.

Step 7: Install the coverings again

Bushwacker Rocker Panel Covers Reinstallation Instructions:

  • Ensure that the surface where the covers will be reinstalled is clean and dry.
  • Check the clips and fasteners on the covers for any damage and replace them if necessary.
  • Align the covers properly with the body of the vehicle and ensure that they fit securely.
  • Starting at one end, press the clips and fasteners into place.
  • Work your way along the length of the cover, pressing the clips and fasteners into place as you go.
  • Once all the clips and fasteners are in place, give the covers a gentle tug to ensure they are securely fastened.
  • Double-check the alignment and fit of the covers, making any necessary adjustments.

Your Bushwacker rocker panel covers are now reinstalled and should look like new.

Caution: While spraying all the time use a face mask to protect yourself from harmful gas.

With these easy steps, you can give your vehicle's appearance a complete overhaul. Painting over Bushwacker rocker panel covers is an affordable way to give your vehicle a new look without breaking the bank. Follow these tips, and you will have a new, personalized look for your vehicle in no time.