[5point0]

I'm in the process of repainting my 1975 Corvette and I need advice about the proper/best way to prepare the rubber bumpers for primer and paint. The current bumper covers are showing well-oxidized silver paint and some bare rubber in several spots. They are both GM factory replacements and worth saving but I am reluctant to use solvents if there is the slightest chance that they might bleed through and ruin the new paint. Any ideas out there?
5point0

[MAUSS]

I'd be interested too... the rear bumper on my '79 Trans Am is looking a little shabby.

[Notorious]

Are you married to the idea of using the originals? The reason I ask is because these early bumpers of this type are prone to warping and looking wavy as they age. '84-'90 C4s had the same problem. When they changed the front and rear appearances in '91, they also changed to 'glass bumpers. No more problem. There are fiberglass replacements available and they do not have this problem. However some brands fit better than others, so do your homework if you go that route. Good luck and as a fellow Vette owner, I'll look forward to seeing the finished product.

[matt167]

my uncle went 'glass on his '73 Vette.

[1930u]

Originally Posted by 5point0

I'm in the process of repainting my 1975 Corvette and I need advice about the proper/best way to prepare the rubber bumpers for primer and paint. The current bumper covers are showing well-oxidized silver paint and some bare rubber in several spots. They are both GM factory replacements and worth saving but I am reluctant to use solvents if there is the slightest chance that they might bleed through and ruin the new paint. Any ideas out there?
5point0

I never ever use original GM Corvette bumper covers, even if their good or new old stock. I have had many problems. They look great when your done but about a year later they start to become brittle and crack. I used the recommended paint for rubber/pastic. I'm not an expert but I think it has something to do with the chemical constituents in todays paint. Who knows??? After failures with original bumper covers I have started to use a bumper cover called enduraflex. They're a composite fiberglass type poduct that is just slightly flexiable. They fit great too. So far so good. Again I'm no expert but this is what worked for me.

[dt196]

Notorius,

Sorry, but factory bumpers on Vettes have never been fiberglass. 1973 thru the present included, although the aftermarket makes fiberglass ones for all years.

Dan