Smoothing plastic grain

[lawguy]

I have an odd little project going that has at its center, a small Honda engine...and I mean small- 2.5hp.

Anyhoo, I want the engine to look older than it is. I am removing the plastic air cleaner and making a metal one that approximates what an old engine would have. However, the engine cover is plastic as well...and I need it as it serves as the mount for the starter rope and the shroud that directs air flow. The cover has a fine grain on it. I would like to smooth it in some way so that when I paint it, the smooth finish more closely approximates metal.

I was wondering about light sanding followed by a spray on filler and more sanding....anyone have any bright ideas about this?

 

[Steve]

Sounds to me as if you are on the right track with what you have planned. Tha't exactly the method that I would use in the same situation.

 

[Nunyas]

I suppose another method would be to spread a ~thin~ layer of "flexible" plastic filler over the surface of the part and sand it smooth before priming and painting. Though, your planned execution may be the less expensive route.

 

[bugimike]

I would say, light sanding, high-build primer, sand, high-build again (repeat as needed) and paint!

 

[anthony7777]

I would say, light sanding, high-build primer, sand, high-build again (repeat as needed) and paint!

yup datts da way, ah dont forget ta use the paint made special for plastic. /bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/savewave.gif

 

[tony barnhill]

How hot's it gonna get?

 

[bugimike]

I would say, light sanding, high-build primer, sand, high-build again (repeat as needed) and paint!

yup datts da way, ah dont forget ta use the paint made special for plastic. /bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/savewave.gif

If you're gonna do all the High-build primer route, the "special" plastic paint is not necessary, since the plastic is "encased" in primer already!! /bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/wink.gif

 

[lawguy]

As to how hot it will get- which is a good point, not very, at least not enough to cause a problem. What I base this on is the fact that I have restored various small engines in the past and I have used the same paint and primer/surfacer on them without long term problems. I hhave never had to smooth grain, however. I can easily put my hand on it while running and it will not be more than warm.

This engine (Honda GXH50) is a popular engine for what I am using it for and I know of many who have painted the cover, but no one who has tried to smooth the texture....I'm a little compulsive about this project.

 

[Scott_Hower]

I'm curious... can you share details of the project?

 

[anthony7777]

I'm curious... can you share details of the project?

scott, good question, my guess is hes tampering with evidence. /bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/devilgrin.gif