Swapping out car parts can refresh your vehicle’s look, and recently I tackled the front bumper using an eBay purchase. While the aftermarket Car Parts Front Bumper itself proved to be a solid buy, the paint job presented a learning curve. Here’s a breakdown of my DIY experience, focusing on key areas for a successful install.
The eBay bumper impressed me with its construction. Fitment was surprisingly accurate across the board. Only around the tow hook cover did it require minor adjustments with a Dremel to perfectly accommodate the cover. The main challenge arose during painting. I aimed for a smooth finish but encountered orange peel due to insufficient clear coat. I underestimated the amount needed, thinking one can would suffice, but two are definitely recommended to achieve a proper, thick layer.
Wet sanding with 1000 grit sandpaper requires a delicate touch. I learned this the hard way by being too aggressive and likely sanding through the clear coat in areas. While 2000 grit followed, the initial damage was done. The lesson? Less is more with 1000 grit. The orange peel effect stemmed from both not enough clear coat and possibly misting with excessive air pressure during application.
Despite the paint imperfections, the overall bumper quality is commendable. The casting was well-executed, minimizing prep work.
A closer look reveals the finish.
For texture comparison, I polished the top section using Ardex 1000 cutting compound, a highly effective product. However, caution is needed to avoid over-polishing. The lower portion retains a slightly rougher, “bumper” texture, which is acceptable and sometimes even desired.
Finally, test fitting the bumper without trim confirmed excellent fitment on both sides. The contrast between the professional fender paint and my DIY bumper paint highlights the areas where more clear coat was needed.
In conclusion, this eBay car parts front bumper is a worthwhile purchase for DIY enthusiasts. Just remember to invest in sufficient clear coat and exercise caution during wet sanding for a truly professional finish.
