They are known to be one of the strongest diff covers around. They are fabricated from high grade iron. Plus, they are designed to have a lip free smooth transition. Which is beneficial when rock crawling. The covers came with a bare finish that allows me to grind, prime, and paint.
STEP 1Grind the surface smooth. I work in a fabrication shop so there are plenty of tools and experience to help me with my Jeep needs. We work with steel, aluminum and bronze all the time so the guys helped me get started and gave me some really good tips for grinding.
STEP 2
Clean the surface. I used Acetone which you can get at your local hardware store.
Prime the covers. The best primer for the bare finish on the steel is an automotive self etching primer. I read, once the primer is sprayed on, a tack cloth should be used. I was a little hesitant doing this, but it worked awesome.
Once I put on two coats of primer it was time for the purple paint. However, I was down to a half a can of Valspar Sumptuous Purple Satin Finish. This paint has been discontinued. I could not find it locally.
Luck may have it, I am part of the Jeep Community and everyone chipped in to help me find the purple spray paint. I now own seven cans. I will never run out! Thanks Jeepers!!!
STEP 4
Spray on the final color at least two to three coats. Mine happens to be Sumptuous Purple.
Step 5
Paint the accents with black model paint. Then 3 to 4 coats of clear coat.
Some folks suggested I powder coat my diff covers. I decided for the regular old rattle can. This will make repairing the scratches and dings much easier. There could be several of these repairs since I like to crawl on rocks.
So now it is time to install the diff covers. My friend CPO, the owner of Overclock3d, is going to help me with this install. I just hope the temperatures start dropping because it is just too darn hot this summer to be out wrenching in the garage.
Disclaimer: Any advise and information provided on this blog should be verified by professional sources prior to making any changes or modifications to your vehicle.