How to Paint a Fiberglass Truck Cap

Fiberglass truck caps often need to be painted to match the truck they are being put on. To paint fiberglass, you need gel coat. Gel coat is a fiberglass resin pigmented to match any color. The consistency of gel coat is very thick and requires a gel coat gun to properly apply it. All materials needed for this job can be found at your local marine supply store.

Things You'll Need

• Respirator
• Palm sander
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Rags
• Acetone
• Painter's tape
• Gel coat
• Methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (hardener)
• Small bucket
• Stir stick
• Gel coat spray gun

Instructions

1. Put on a respirator and sand the cap using a palm sander and fine-grit sandpaper. Scuff the entire surface for the gel coat to bond properly. The entire surface should be dull and smooth.

2. Clean the cap with a rag and acetone. Wipe away any dirt or grease left on the surface. It is important to remove any oil or grease residue from the surface to avoid bubbles in the gel coat.

3. Tape off any windows or trim using painter's tape. This will prevent overspray from getting on unwanted areas.

4. Mix the gel coat and hardener, following the directions on the containers. Use a small bucket and stir stick to thoroughly mix the gel coat. Add it to the gel coat spray gun as directed in the manual.

5. Spray the first coat of gel coat in a heavy mist. This will act like a base coat to avoid any runs. Apply the paint as evenly as possible for the best results. Let the first coat begin to get tacky but not hard before applying the second coat.

6. Apply the second and final coat to the cap, solidly covering the entire surface. Spray the paint as evenly as possible to avoid runs or ripples. Let the gel coat cure until it is hard and cool to the touch.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear a respirator when working with fiberglass materials.

References

• American Marine Supply
• Evercoat