I just picked up a spare tow hook @ the dealer and was going to paint it. The peeps that have done this, what have you used to paint it? Any special p[ainting process I should be aware of?

 

I remember hearing about them dipping the the hook into a colored rubberized paint. Not sure if the paint had marine applications.


Art

 

Search the forums... The standard, easy way is rubberized tool paint dip ($9 at a hardware store - does about a dozen hooks). Comes in several colors.

 

I originally spray painted mine but the paint chipped off a little too easy. I then powdercoated mine which worked great.

 

Plasti-Dip, I believe is the name of the rubberized paint

 

+1 -- so easy, even I can do it . . . and it still looks great.

 

+2 spray paint faded and chipped

 

Rubber dip lasted more than a year on my hook. Be sure to clean it well with alcohol or brake cleaner to remove any traces of oil for best adhesion.

 

Sweet! I will look for that rubber paint. Is that a Wal-Martable item?

 

^ Not sure but it is Home Depotable (in the spray paint section)

 

i went with spray paint and 3 coats of clear, hasnt faded or chipped yet

 

Plasti-Dip go to Home Depot in the paint department.

 

I like the bare metal of my tow hook. But Ive always wanted to get it painted that safety orange like on race cars. Sadly I dont think that plasti-dip comes in that color. One more thing, has anyone with a painted/plasti-dipped tow hook had to use the tow hook? How is durabilty after painting? Once chipping starts the whole thing will chip quickly, I would think.

 

Haven't actually used it to do a tow. I think that it might "rub off" where the hook and tow hook contact, but because of the material it's not going to chip off.
And since I don't race my car,* I frankly only have it on there for looks -- if I do need to use it, touching up (or even completely redoing) the dip will probably be the least of my worries.

* I guess you could say I'm a poser -- except who's going to believe I regularly track the cabrio?

 

I used plasti-kote from home depot. It is a plastic dip for tool handles, find it in the paint department. Do several coats. It holds up really well!

 

Here's a thread on how to paint the tow hook....

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...d.php?t=116860