The 101 On Auto Dipping

The purchase of a vehicle is a large expense, so protecting your investment with proper maintenance is key. Of course, you may already change the oil and rotate tires on a specific schedule, but focusing on your automobile's body is also important for protecting its value. If you are hoping to protect your paint from fading and possible development of rust, consider a plastic or rubber coating over your vehicle's body. Also known as dipping, this coating offers an increased durability and protection at a much lower price compared to painting. Using this guide, you will see the benefits of dipping your vehicle.

Dipping: Explained

Lowering your car, truck, or SUV into a vat does not occur during automobile dipping. However, the coating is applied using a specialized sprayer. The coating is able to wrap the vehicle's body, rims, and trim work completely and securely without the need of sanding. Since sanding and priming are not necessary, excessive labor is not needed, which reduces the cost of dipping.

Benefits

The ultraviolet rays of the sun can discolor your vehicle's paint over time, decreasing its appeal and value, so dipping is a great option to cover faded spots. In addition, dipping can protect your vehicle from the environmental elements.

The plastic or rubber coating creates a thick shell around your vehicle, reducing the risk of sun fading and rust, but it also protects your vehicle's underlying body from other environmental conditions such as rain, ice, rocks, salt, and road debris.

Available in a wide variety of colors and finishes, dipping enables you to create a truly custom look suited to your unique personality. Opt for black in a matte finish with matching rims or a vibrant purple with iridescent accents. With all the different color and finish combinations, you will enjoy customizing your vehicle through dipping.

Thankfully, auto dipping is not permanent. Since it is easy to remove, you can change up the look of your vehicle periodically with a completely new coating.  

Dipping DIY

If you want your vehicle to reap the benefits of auto-dipping, consider maximizing your investment by completing the work on your own. Before beginning, wash and dry your vehicle to ensure the body is ready for its new coating.

You do not need to sand or prime your vehicle, but you should remove any buildup of rust on the body using a sheet of fine grit sandpaper.

Prepping your vehicle for the application of the coating is the next step in your dipping process. Apply painter's tape around areas that you do not want to coat, such as headlights or window frames. This may be a tedious task, but it will make the dipping application much easier.

After selecting your desired color, add the plastic or rubber coating directly to the container of a power sprayer. Be sure you are working outdoors or in a well-ventilated space. Wear plastic coveralls, gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator mask to protect your clothes, skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

Hold the sprayer nozzle a few inches away from the body of your vehicle and begin spraying a section in a side-sweeping motion. Work from the left front fender towards the back of your vehicle before moving on to the other side. The roof should be coated last, allowing the vehicle to dry in sections. For the best application and look, apply multiple coats to your vehicle.

Dipping your car, truck, or SUV is a great option for added protection and appeal. With this guide, you will see the benefits of auto dipping and have the knowledge to complete this improvement on your own.

For more information, contact a company like Central Body Co Inc.