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2/23/25: Being an “AD Addict”, I couldn’t stay away from my ‘52 for four months without some connection to my project, so I bought my steering wheel down for a repaint. The original top coat on the refurbished wheel fours years ago was Rust-Oleum Appliance epoxy paint and it chipped really easily. After taking a closer look at the affected areas, the paint chipped off of the primer, leaving the primer intact. Prior to applying the appliance epoxy, I sanded the primer down with 320 and cleaned it with mineral sprits, so I suspect the Rust-oleum appliance epoxy enamel isn’t flexible enough. I decided that a 2k epoxy should be better at resisting chipping.

I researched and called an autobody supply shop in Florence, SC over an hours drive away to make sure they did have gloss black in a 2k spray paint and they assured me they did. Upon arrival and asking for this 2k paint, the gentlemen apologized for running out of 2k spray cans but said he could have them the next day. He told me about some other options and one that he recommended. SEM Cover Coat gloss black, was formulated specifically for interior plastic trim and was flexible. Disappointed but having no desire to repeat this trip the next day, I decided to give it a try.

I spent a couple hours sanding down the steering wheel with 180 grit sandpaper. Since the chips didn’t go past the top coat, I didn’t have to use any filler. However getting all of the old finish off down to the primer to give the top coat the best chance of not chipping was not easy. I followed it with 320 to eliminate the 180 sanding marks. I had to wait for a day that was warm enough to paint and after reading the can, (should have done that sooner), it suggested using an adhesion promoter. A local trip to a hardware store solved that issue quickly.

I applied 3 coats as instructed, then started spraying the top coat. It started a to react immediately. I stopped spraying, let it dry overnight and started the sanding process all over “AGAIN”. I found that Scotchbright and alcohol removed the plastic paint and the adhesion promoter quickly. I applied three coats of high build primer, and ordered high gloss black 2k spray paint on line.

The 2k epoxy arrived two days later but the weather wouldn’t cooperate so I waited a few days to get a 60° day. Another round of sanding with 320 grit and a wipe down with mineral sprits and the wheel was ready for paint.

The 2k epoxy in a spray can didn’t disappoint. I applied three coats which went on pretty smooth. I did spot one small run which I’ll sand and compound out in a few days. Although it’s been a bit trying, I’m very happy with the results.