Converting to black optics

[KKRS6]

I was hoping someone could give me some advice on converting regular alu' trim to matt black. I have searched on the forum and there is some mention of vinyl wrapping, but I would probably be more interested in paint.

Has anyone done this successfully? I would be looking to achieve a very close match to standard OEM, otherwise would probably leave it alone.

If so, what type of paint did you use and how was it applied? I.e. did you strip the trim , paint and refit or just paint in-situ? Also, how durable is the finish compared to standard black optics?

Any advice would be much appreciated!

[HYFR]

RS6 Dave has done it

Looks awesome

[iR8V10]

I had all my trim and grilles colour coded ebony gloss black at a professional bodyshop.

The finish is brilliant and they removed all but the window trims to paint.

The front grills are suseptable to stone chips like everything else but lasts so much better than wrapping or diy measures...

[KKRS6]

I had all my trim and grilles colour coded ebony gloss black at a professional bodyshop.

The finish is brilliant and they removed all but the window trims to paint.

The front grills are suseptable to stone chips like everything else but lasts so much better than wrapping or diy measures...

Hey Dave - thanks for the reply, that sounds like just the job!

Was there any type of specialist paint required? It would be great if you could post a few pics!

[iR8V10]

Few pics here!

http://audisrs.com/ftopic4453-15-0-asc-optics.php

[TIMSRS]

Did mine a while back and did it myself.Took about a week to do and i used the plasticote paint gave an excellent finish and stopped most stone chips due of the durable finish.

[Digger]

Tim, got any close up shots?

[KKRS6]

Cheers Dave - that looks really good on the saloon. I would be looking to convert an avant, so not sure how the gloss would look on the roof rails. Has anyone converted the avant - gloss or matt?

[mrmule]

Yea I did my avant a few weeks ago. Rails can be removed relatively easily along with front end bits. Rear lower boot strip can be problematic to remove if the bolts have rusted. Window surounds are easier sprayed in situ.