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Posted by: tadink Oct 15 2013, 02:02 PM

hey all -

I've seen some painted targa tops that are smooth - how does one go about doing that? I looked at mine and it appears that the texture is part of the gelcoat or whatever the finish is on the targa top....

any 'how to' threads out there on this?

td

Posted by: 914itis Oct 15 2013, 02:07 PM

It's fiber glass, you can just sand it down.

Posted by: NORD Oct 15 2013, 02:23 PM

Agree just sand it down smooth. Then just repaint chosen color.

Posted by: tadink Oct 15 2013, 02:33 PM

Thanks guys - that's what I was looking for!! Just was not sure if there was a finish to it or not other that what it seems....cheers!

td

Posted by: reharvey Oct 15 2013, 02:40 PM

I've smoothed out and painted four of my tops. Block sand it so that it comes out even.

Posted by: jimkelly Oct 15 2013, 02:49 PM

wow - I would have thought and thought that I have read to be careful when sanding as to not go too deep. I also would have assumed most put a thin payer of bondo on top to get the best finish. informative thread. thanks.

Posted by: 7TPorsh Oct 15 2013, 04:06 PM

I tried this and starting hitting the fibers. Ended up using truck bed coating. A little texture; hard as nails. Scratch myself. But if you want smooth I would think you need skim bondo and good prep...or paint will seep through.

Posted by: JmuRiz Oct 15 2013, 04:26 PM

QUOTE(jimkelly @ Oct 15 2013, 12:49 PM)

Posted by: jim_hoyland Oct 15 2013, 06:32 PM

I used steel wool to get the coating off, then block sanded, and filler as needed.

Posted by: McMark Oct 15 2013, 07:36 PM

Let me check the pile of tops at my dad's place. I seem to remember having one that was sanded.

Oh, and did you ever get a spare tire? If not, I have one.

Posted by: zambezi Oct 15 2013, 08:06 PM

I will be using two tops so I can have the choice to change looks. I did a combo by first sanding the bare top part way to knock down the bumps relatively smooth but not to break through the gelcoat and expose the fibers. Then I applied a couple good coats of high build primer. It will then sand down completely smooth.
Jim

Posted by: Eric_Shea Oct 15 2013, 08:24 PM

Interesting thread title. I thought Dr. Evil mighta forgotten he wasn't on Craigslist for a second there...