I'm thinking of painting the chrome section of the OEM grill, ie - the chrome parts that surround the body-colored slats. I'm going to repaint the chrome to match the body color.

Is it possible to remove only the chrome sections on the top and bottom grill and not remove the slats? or will I have to remove the whole thing to take apart the whole thing? For the bottom section, I was thinking of taking it off without removing the bumper?

The only reason I guess I need to know is whether I should get a similar colored whole grill or will it not matter since I only need the chrome.

Thanks a bunch all.

 

Tape off the parts where you don't want to paint.

 

I like the taping idea. Removing the upper section is relatively easy, but the lower section is held in place with tabs that have "glue" melted to the rear inside the bumper. I've heard of at least one person removing the lower grille without removing the bumper, but given how easy that is, I don't see why you'd suffer and risk damage to the visible part of the bumper. Taping requires no removal, but ultimately removing things will give you the best chance of doing the job well.

 

I pulled the chrome part off the lower section with no harm.
However, when I painted it chipped very quickly. Yes I did prep for paint but the abuse it takes quickly showed.

 

I was intending on getting it professionally painted and that's why I was just going to remove the part and give it to the shop. Is it possible for them to paint it while attached and then drive it home the same day?

 

bump