Paint Chips on Front End..help!!!

[explorer1988]

Hey guys,

I noticed while washing my 97 X, that the front end was pretty beat up with paint chips from driving over the years. I am the 2nd owner of the truck, but have only noticed the chips recently. I would rather not get a complete new paintjob, considering the cost and how good of condition the rest of the truck is in.

Is there anything I can do though? Someone mentioned buying "auto paint" and doing some touchups to the chips. Any suggestions??? Thx!

 

[Essex4x4]

Ford sells touchup paint that will match your factory paint. Just be carefull when you put it on. Wipe the brush several times before touching your ex, the less paint you put on the better. Don't gob it on, looks tacky and if you put too much it can look worse than a chip. Go slow and take your time, patience is key.

once your done i always like to wait at lest a week or so before you wash or wax it, gives the paint time to cure.

 

[explorer1988]

Can the touch-up paint be bought online? Or should it be done through the Ford dealership?

What kind of steps are involved..do you recommened any prepping, sanding, priming? Sorry, I am new to all of this! Thx!!

 

[Essex4x4]

Can the touch-up paint be bought online? Or should it be done through the Ford dealership?

What kind of steps are involved..do you recommened any prepping, sanding, priming? Sorry, I am new to all of this! Thx!!

No prep work needed. I do suggest washing the explorer before you start. Paint won't stick to dirt. If you do buy it online make sure it matches your paint code.

Do remember that i did say use very little paint. If you need more you can always add, this isn't house paint so once it drys it isn't coming off.

I see that you live in canada so do you have a ford dealer near you?

 

[Charlie]

Can the touch-up paint be bought online? Or should it be done through the Ford dealership?

What kind of steps are involved..do you recommened any prepping, sanding, priming? Sorry, I am new to all of this! Thx!!

It can be purchased at most all auto stores. Just ask for touch up paint, and have your color code ready. Should be easy to find the stuff

 

[Essex4x4]

It can be purchased at most all auto stores. Just ask for touch up paint, and have your color code ready. Should be easy to find the stuff

Really???
My local auto parts stores (Pepboys, Napa, Autozone) don't carry any factory automotive paint. Hmm, i have seen the spray cans, but never touch up paint.

 

[Charlie]

They aren't usually actually "Ford" brand paint, but they match the proper colors. I would stay away from the spray paints for what you are looking to do.

 

[cmt08]

I do not think it is your paint but rather your clear coat. I have a 2002 xlt and it does the same thing. in fact it is a real common problem, especially the hood. if you do your home work online you will find that it is one of the top complaints for the ford trucks. if it is your clear coat it will look like little white cracks in your paint and touch up will make it look even worse.