Alternative to painting badges (emblems)

[71CHEVYSHORTBED402]

Had a guy epoxy an original badge as a test piece. He sent me a picture, and I wasn’t impressed really, but in person it’s because the chrome is pitted. There are some bubbles in the 8. Could be because it’s smooth chrome underneath where the other is rough, but my guess it’s just a goof.

Other than that this guy is a top notch finisher & very meticulous, from powder coat to Cerakote to chrome clone & most in-between.

Upside the epoxy should be far and away more durable than paint that doesn’t stick so well to begin with & difficult to apply. Downside is it’s more difficult to remove. I told him I’d gauge board interest. I think I’m within board rules to say I’ll give his contact via PM. It’s not expensive. All he needs is a clean gap to fill, the old paint comes off with lacquer thinner. Beyond that it’s between he any anyone interested.

Personally I’m having one set done, and perhaps another in blue to match the bowtie on the front clip for a twist. He can epoxy any color.

[72c20customcamper]

My concern would be adhesion. Epoxy doesn't bind well to smooth surfaces when I do a second coat on tables and such I rough up with 150 paper .

[71CHEVYSHORTBED402]

Originally Posted by 72c20customcamper

My concern would be adhesion. Epoxy doesn't bind well to smooth surfaces when I do a second coat on tables and such I rough up with 150 paper .

His thinking is it sticks for good while paint isn't even an option with a syringe because it won't dry. Just for kicks I'll let the badge bake in the sun a long while. Heck, maybe I'll freeze it too & cook it again

Be interesting to know how the factory did it. Seems it was one stage, perhaps a primer in it, but from what I've seen the "8" never quite took. I tried lacquer paint on one, disappointing, at least without a primer. Had 5-6 cans of various primer & tested on smooth chrome. Eastwood's etch primer did well.