if painted correctly you shouldn't have those types of problems. I've always painted the door handles and moldings on all of my cars... have always had bodykits and such (same principle), and never had a problem other then difficult wear.
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I've actually painted mine and I'm happy with the results. Best thing is, I have a lifetime warranty so I can get it painted again if it chips/gets dull!
http://216.118.86.224/gallery/data/501/17471estoril_clouds.jpgComment
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That just looks excellent MeesterSteph. Do you mean that you painted it or that you had it painted? Looks like an great job whoever did it.
Regarding chipping and wear, I didn't have a problem with my Techno's painted trim. But I didn't have the car very long after I had it done.
Just a thought. Couldn't we use some of that clear bra/3M Invisa-shield stuff on it? It seems like it'd be pretty easy to apply to those long, flat strips of molding. I think you can buy it in blank sheets. Or, maybe the slight texture of the moldings would cause a problem?Comment
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Hmm...I'm not sure about the Clear bra/3M invisa-shield...
I got it painted at my local collision center. I'm surprised they have the paint matched!Comment
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I have heard you can paint trim to match no problem if it has never been armor-all'ed or anything like that.
I got my red M3 used and don't know what has been put on moldings. I would like to get front painted (rock chips major) and wonder If I could get the trim painted also.Comment
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i think i've heard that the clear bra's are factory direct for e46's and can not be bought in the aftermarket...Comment
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Originally posted by TRUE///M3
i think i've heard that the clear bra's are factory direct for e46's and can not be bought in the aftermarket...
Clear bra kits can be bought for every model of E36 or E46 from many different aftermarket companies and installers. You can also purchase blank sheets of 3M paint protection film for areas that the kit doesn't include.
Here's one I've used before. 100% satisfaction.
http://www.invinca-shield.com/asp/genkit.asp?kit=311B
Tacblack, painters have cleaner/solvents that will clean any residual silicone from the trim when they prepare it for painting. Armour All shouldn't pose any special problem to them. Wax practically has to be sandblasted off of the side trim, but my painter friend tells me they can get that out too.
Anxiously awaiting Spring's arrival to do mine!Comment
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i love estoril blue.... very nice:thumbsup:Comment
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Yeap, such an awesome color ^_^Comment
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Yeah...not really digging the painted side mouldings...for some reason to me, it's like painting windshield wipers....it just doesn't seem right cause its not part of the metal body panels and doors and such, whereas a body kit is the replacement or add-on directly affecting the body extension...so it looks odd seeing a moulding sticking out painted to simulate as if it is a door design, maybe that's why the e46's are more slim so it's less noticeable....door handles seem to stick out and look weird....just my opinion, either that or I am used to seeing them unpainted; kinda like i have to get used to the new 5-series which i still haven't....but nice paint jobs though!Comment
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Originally posted by 00poop6x
Yeah...not really digging the painted side mouldings...for some reason to me, it's like painting windshield wipers....it just doesn't seem right cause its not part of the metal body panels and doors and such, whereas a body kit is the replacement or add-on directly affecting the body extension...so it looks odd seeing a moulding sticking out painted to simulate as if it is a door design, maybe that's why the e46's are more slim so it's less noticeable....door handles seem to stick out and look weird....just my opinion, either that or I am used to seeing them unpainted; kinda like i have to get used to the new 5-series which i still haven't....but nice paint jobs though!
Hahaha, yeah I understand. I still think it looks awesome, because it gives it that sleek look because the moldings are wide (unlike the regular 3-series moldings)
I respect your opinion though, thanks!Comment
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Yeah, i actually considered painting mine but I have Boston Green....after looking at pics of dark M3's with painted side mouldings I lost taste for it. The silver looks amazing though, the outcome surprised me. Enjoy:thumbsup:Comment
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Hahahah, yeah I gotta admit, if you have a darker M3, leave the sidemoldings as is. Lighter cars usually go well with painted sidemoldings, just as long as you do it right. ^_^Comment
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