CAI Painting

stanger · Mar 16, 2011

I'm thinking of painting my CAI to match my car and was wondering what you guys though would be the best paint to use. Also my intake has a coarse outside and I was also wondering if you thought it would look better if I sanded it down smooth or left it the way that it is. I have a show next weekend and want to take care of it before then. Also I need to clean my engine bay while I'm at it so any pointers on that would be appreciated too. Thanks everybody.

joekd · Mar 16, 2011

Is it metal or plastic? No matter what you need to scuff, prime, paint, clear

As for the surface texture that's your own personal opinion. I dont like it and would sand smooth even though it's a lot more work.

stanger · Mar 16, 2011

Its plastic and I agree about looking smooth. Any particular paint that I should use? I see that Duplicolor got pretty bad reviews from you with the caliper paint. Is the same true for painting plastic?

joekd · Mar 16, 2011

Nah, duplicolor plastic paint is fine. Just use a high heat product if possible and clear it so it lasts.

Also to be 100% honest the caliper kit isn't bad either, I just think the G2 is a far superior product. I've used both and the G2 came out much better and proved to be more durable as well.

stanger · Mar 16, 2011

Thanks for the advice. I'm going to attempt it this weekend. I'll post pics.

DropTopPony · Mar 17, 2011

I had mine done when I ordered it for like an extra $25 from Tunable Induction. Its DFG and really stands out in person.

stanger · Mar 21, 2011

That looks really good! I started sanding mine but it didn't take me long to give up on that project for now. What grit sandpaper should I use? The tubes aren't heavy textured but they aren't smooth either. It almost looks like three or four coats of paint would give it the smooth look. I want to do it right although it will not get done before the show this weekend. I'm completely new at this so go from the ground up please. Sandpaper grit, primer etc. Thanks.