Painting a topper

Thoughts on flat back rattle can for a white fiberglass topper? Tips? Paint recommendations?

 

Are you wanting to paint to match the truck?

I did the topper for my Tundra. I purchased the correct paint from my local auto parts store. Base/clear coat. I think it was around $60 for the paint supplies. Code 040 Super white is our paint code. You will pay about the same for rattle can paint , but not have any UV resistance. Doesn't really matter with white, but its good to be aware.

I have several high end paint guns, but for the 20 foot paint job I was putting on to the cap, the $29.00 HF paint gun works just fine. Here is a tip. the HF $50 paint gun kit is a steal. These are very high quality guns for the price. Nothing is better to learn how to paint on than a used bed cap. It actually looks like a 10 foot paint job (looks good from 10' away)

Here is another tip: White appliance enamel is the exact shade of white for matching Super White paint jobs. It is tough paint and can be found at all Home big box stores. I think I used Rustolium last time I did some touch up work.

 

If you don't really care what it looks like, or how long it lasts, fine.

If you care a little, and want great durability, use MonstaLiner in the color of your choice

If you want painted, but can't spray with proper equipment for some reason, research roller paint jobs. Google something like $50 paint job. You'll find techniques that folks have done on cars that would be pretty easy on a topper. Use marine hull paint for durability.

Or pay someone to do it and miss out on all the fun.

 

Get the Toyota paint code and get a body shop paint it for you. Rattle can paint is cheap and it looks cheap. If you want it black, just powder coat or herculine it. A crappy top on a nice Tacoma doesnt look good.

 

I did, but it's sitting on a 1st gen. with 203K miles.

I bought a white truck cap on craigslist, sanded, and painted flat black. It's been almost a year and it still looks decent after sitting outside and a winter of brushing and scraping. Personally I'm not too concerned about "perfect paint" since it keeps my stuff dry and I've only got ~$180 into it ($100 for cap then paint, new pistons, new handle, weather stripping, and brake light)

There is a spot on top that look slightly 'faded' and one chip (which I might sand and touch up). Not a big deal since my truck has a few scrapes, dents, and chips of its own.


http://imgur.com/LrTug1H

 

Thanks for the input guys. I changed my mind and ended up ordering one of the tuff truck bags instead of buying the topper. I didn't really want the topper on there all the time, and just wanted it mainly for trips when hauling luggage/hunting gear. I think the bag will be more convenient. Woulda been a cool project to herculine it though...

Anyway, the topper is listed on Lexington, KY craigslist if anyone is interested. http://lexington.craigslist.org/pts/4917695497.html