Polyurethane bumpers are built to be durable and flexible, making them a popular choice for vehicles. However, it’s normal to notice surface-level imperfections such as scratches, nicks, or small blemishes. These are a standard part of the manufacturing and shipping process and are not considered defects.

These minor imperfections are meant to be addressed during the prepping stage before painting. Proper sanding, filling, and priming will smooth out these areas and ensure the bumper is ready for a flawless finish. This is a routine part of preparing any aftermarket part for installation.

If, however, you notice anything more significant—such as deep cracks or tears—further inspection is recommended to determine if the part may have been damaged in transit or during handling.

Preparing Polyurethane for Painting: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cleaning the Part

1. Bake the Part (If Possible):
   • If you have access to a bake booth, bake the urethane parts at 80°C (176°F) for 2 hours.
   • If a bake booth isn’t available, place the parts in direct sunlight or use a hair dryer to heat them.
   • This process helps the part "sweat out" any trapped oils or gases in the urethane.
2. Initial Cleaning:
   • Thoroughly clean the part inside and out using a silicone remover or a comparable wax and grease remover.
   • We recommend Spies Hecker #7090 Silicone Remover for best results.
3. Surface Scuffing:
   • Using a spray bottle, mist the outside of the part with the silicone remover while simultaneously scuffing the surface with a 3M 7447 Scotch-Brite Pad until it has a dull finish.
   • After scuffing, clean the surface again with Spies Hecker #7090 Silicone Remover using a clean rag.

Step 2: Surface Inspection and Minor Defect Repair

1. Inspect for Defects:
   • Examine the surface for any scratches, nicks, or other imperfections.
2. Repair Minor Defects:
   • Use Spies Hecker Fine Putty #7715 to fill in small defects.
   • Once the putty dries, sand it smooth with a 3M Fine Grit Soft Back Sanding Sponge.
   • Clean the surface again with Spies Hecker #7090 Silicone Remover to ensure it's ready for the next step.

Step 3: Plastic Adhesion Primer Application

1. Apply Spies Hecker #3304 Plastic Adhesion Primer evenly across the surface of the part.
2. Allow the primer to dry for 5 minutes before proceeding.

Step 4: Primer Application

1. First Coat:
   • Apply a light coat of Tip Top #1255 Primer to the part's surface.
   • Allow it to dry for 5–10 minutes.
2. Second Coat:
   • Apply a second, heavier wet coat of Tip Top #1255 Primer.
   • Let the primer dry for 10–15 minutes.
3. Heat Curing (If Available):
   • If a heat source is available, place the primed parts in an oven at 90°C (194°F) for 1.5 hours to fully cure the primer.
4. Wet Sanding:
   • After the primer has cured and cooled, wet sand the surface using 3M 500-grit Wet Sandpaper and a solution of Simple Green mixed with water.
5. Final Cleaning:
   • Clean the surface again with Spies Hecker #7090 Silicone Remover.

Step 5: Painting

The part is now fully prepared for painting. Apply the base coat and clear coat according to the paint manufacturer's specifications.

How to Prepare Fiberglass Aftermarket Parts for Paint

1. Inspect the Part
   • Check for damage: Look for cracks, pinholes, or other surface imperfections.
   • Test fit: Before any prep work, ensure the part fits your vehicle properly. Make any necessary adjustments now.
2. Clean the Surface
   • Wash thoroughly: Use a mild detergent and warm water to remove dirt and grease.
   • Degrease: Wipe the part with a wax and grease remover to eliminate any contaminants that might interfere with adhesion.
3. Sand the Surface
   • Initial sanding: Use 180-220 grit sandpaper to scuff the entire surface. This step removes the glossy gel coat and provides a key for the primer.
   • Check for smoothness: Feel the surface with your hand to ensure it's evenly sanded.
   • Blow off dust: Use compressed air or a clean microfiber cloth to remove sanding debris.
4. Fill Imperfections
   • Spot filling: Apply a fiberglass-compatible body filler to any pinholes, cracks, or uneven areas.
   • Sand the filler: Once cured, sand the repaired areas with 220-320 grit sandpaper until smooth.
   • Re-check for imperfections: Repeat filling and sanding if needed.
5. Apply Primer
   • Choose the right primer: Use an epoxy or polyester primer that adheres well to fiberglass.
   • Spray the primer: Apply an even coat according to the manufacturer's instructions.
   • Drying time: Allow the primer to fully cure, as specified on the product label.
6. Sand the Primer
   • Wet sanding: Use 400-600 grit wet sandpaper to smooth the primed surface.
   • Check the texture: The surface should feel completely smooth and ready for paint.
   • Clean again: Wipe down the part with wax and grease remover after sanding.
7. Apply a Guide Coat (Optional)
   • Why use a guide coat? A thin, contrasting color helps reveal uneven sanding or imperfections.
   • Sand lightly: Use fine-grit sandpaper (600+ grit) to remove the guide coat.
8. Final Cleaning
   • Wipe down: Use a tack cloth to remove all dust and debris.
   • Inspect: Ensure the part is clean, smooth, and free of imperfections.
9. Paint the Part
   • Base coat: Apply multiple thin coats of automotive-grade paint.
   • Clear coat: After the base coat dries, apply a clear coat for durability and shine.
   • Cure and polish: Allow the paint to cure fully and polish if needed.
10. Install the Part
    • Once the paint is fully cured and hardened, install the part on your vehicle.

Repair Procedures for Polyurethane Bumper or Part

Step 1: Assess and Clean

• Inspect the Damage: Examine the damaged area to understand the extent of the repair needed.
• Clean the Surface: Use a wax and grease remover or rubbing alcohol to clean the area thoroughly.

Step 2: Remove Damaged Material

• Trim Loose Pieces: Use a utility knife to cut away any jagged or loose polyurethane.
• Sand the Area: Roughen the surface around the damage with 80-grit sandpaper to promote adhesion.

Step 3: Heat and Reshape (If Necessary)

• Apply Heat: Gently heat the damaged area with a heat gun to make it pliable.
• Reshape: Carefully mold the material back to its original shape.
• Cool Down: Allow the area to cool and set in the new shape.

Step 4: Prepare for Repair

• Support the Repair: For holes or deep cracks, place masking tape behind the area to support the repair material.
• Drill Holes (Optional): Drill small holes along cracks to enhance adhesive bonding.

Step 5: Apply Repair Adhesive

• Mix Adhesive: Prepare the two-part polyurethane adhesive according to the instructions.
• Apply Adhesive: Spread the adhesive over the damaged area, ensuring it fills all gaps.
• Feather Edges: Smooth out the adhesive to blend with the surrounding surface.

Step 6: Allow to Cure

• Let it Set: Allow the adhesive to cure fully as per the manufacturer's recommended time.
• Avoid Disturbance: Do not move or touch the area during curing.

Step 7: Sand the Repaired Area

• Initial Sanding: Start with 120-grit sandpaper to smooth out excess adhesive.
• Progressive Sanding: Move to 220-grit and then 400-grit sandpaper for a finer finish.
• Use a Sanding Block: Maintain an even surface while sanding.

Step 8: Apply Plastic Body Filler (If Needed)

• Mix Filler: Prepare the plastic body filler following the product guidelines.
• Apply Filler: Spread a thin layer over any remaining imperfections.
• Sand Smooth: Once dry, sand with 400-grit sandpaper until the area is smooth.

Step 9: Clean and Mask

• Final Cleaning: Wipe the area with a clean cloth and wax and grease remover.
• Mask Surrounding Areas: Use masking tape and paper to protect areas from overspray.

Step 10: Apply Primer

• Select Primer: Use a primer compatible with plastic surfaces.
• Apply Primer: Spray an even coat over the repaired area.
• Dry and Sand: Let it dry, then lightly sand with 400-grit sandpaper.

Step 11: Paint the Area

• Prepare Paint: Use automotive paint that matches your vehicle's color.
• Apply Paint: Spray several thin coats, allowing each to dry before the next.
• Blend Edges: Extend each coat slightly beyond the previous to blend with existing paint.

Step 12: Apply Clear Coat (Optional)

• Apply Clear Coat: For added shine and protection, spray one or two thin coats over the painted area.
• Allow to Dry: Let the clear coat dry completely.

Step 13: Final Steps

• Remove Masking Materials: Carefully take off all tape and paper.
• Inspect the Repair: Check for any imperfections and touch up if necessary.
• Polish (Optional): Once fully cured, polish the area to enhance the finish.

Product Return Policy

At Wings West, we strive to ensure that our customers are satisfied with their purchases. However, if for any reason you are not completely satisfied, we offer a return option, subject to the following terms and conditions.

Return Conditions:

• All returns must be made within 30 days of the delivery date.
• Products must be in new, unused condition and in their original packaging to qualify for a return.
• Customized or special order items are non-refundable.
• A restocking fee of 30% will be applied to all returned items.

Return Process:

• To initiate a return, please contact our customer service team to obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number.
• The RMA number must be clearly marked on the outside of the return package. Returns without an RMA number may not be accepted.
• Shipping costs for returns are the responsibility of the buyer, and original shipping charges are non-refundable.

Refunds:

Once the returned product is received and inspected, we will process the refund, minus the 30% restocking fee. Refunds will be issued to the original payment method within 7-10 business days.

Damaged or Defective Items:

If you receive a damaged or defective item, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work to resolve the issue and, if necessary, provide a replacement or refund without applying the restocking fee.

Please note that returns may take up to 2 weeks to process once received. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Special Orders Policy:

All special orders require a nonrefundable deposit of the total cost. In the event of any cancellation by the Buyer, for any reason, the deposit will be immediately forfeited to Wings West.

Shipping Terms:

Wings West is not liable for any delays in shipments. All shipping dates provided are estimates, and Buyer is not entitled to any chargebacks, price reductions, or offsets due to late shipments or failure to deliver within the estimated timeframe.

Unclaimed Special Orders:

If special order items remain unclaimed for over 30 days after Wings West has received the parts in stock, and the Buyer has made no effort to retrieve their order, the order will be considered canceled, and all previously deposited funds will be forfeited to Wings West.

IMPORTANT DELIVERY GUIDELINES

Check Your Shipment: Before starting a detailed inspection for any damage, ensure that you count and verify all the items listed on your order to confirm that everything has been received.

Inspect for Damage:

When your shipment arrives, take a moment to carefully check the box for any signs of visible damage, such as dents, punctures, or tears. If you spot any, be sure to note it on the delivery receipt by writing "Damaged."

Document Any Damage:

It is critical to document any visible damage to the packaging or its contents. We recommend taking photographs of any damage. Also, make sure to accurately note the damage on the delivery receipt and write “Damaged” clearly on the receipt.

Refuse Damaged Shipments:

If the box appears significantly damaged or compromised, it is recommended to refuse the shipment. Be sure to clearly state "Damaged" as the reason for refusal on the delivery receipt provided by the carrier.

Severe Damage:

In the case of severe damage to the box, we advise you to be extra cautious. If you notice extensive damage to the packaging, it’s best to refuse the shipment and make sure the damage is noted on the receipt. Please take a picture of both the damage and the delivery receipt.

Rejecting Severely Damaged Packages:

For seriously damaged boxes, you should refuse the shipment. Clearly write "Damaged" on the delivery receipt and take photos of the damage as well as the receipt itself.

Contactless Delivery:

If you receive contactless delivery, immediately inspect the package upon arrival for any signs of damage. Should you notice any issues, take photos and report them to both us and the freight company on the same day of delivery. Failing to report damages within the same day may result in your claim being denied.

Signature and Refusal:

When accepting the shipment, sign the delivery receipt. However, if you refuse the delivery due to damages, make sure the refusal is clearly noted and signed on the receipt.