Expert: Dave Norgardt - 8/14/2007

Question
I just got this car as a gift and the paint is just peeling off the poor car. The primer seems to be fine. I have seen many Dodges with this issue and I need to know what the best way to take care of the issue. Is it bad paint or bad primer? If it is just the paint that is the issue what is the best way to sand the car down to just the primer? if it is the primer what is the best way to strip the car down to metal and treat the metal so no contaminates can get a start before the metal is treated? I intend to do most of the work my self.

 Thank you,

Craig

Answer
Hi Craig! I have worked for Chrysler for 16 years and am very versed on this problem. According to our Chrysler paint techs, the problem obviously lies in the adhiesion between the primer and the base coat. They claim there were chemical imbalances. At one point, Chrysler was warrantying the problem. Chrysler reps would pay to repair the problem depending on the year and mileage. It would be pro-rated. You can check your local Chrysler dealer if anything can be done as far as financial aid. If you want to do this yourself, the best method of repair as we have always done, is to strip the car. You can use a chemical stripper such as "Aircraft Stripper", or sand the car down using 80 grit. Be sure to re sand with 180. Use a good quality epoxy primer to prime. You can now sand the car using 400 grit. As for paint, we use PPG Global paint. Check your local autobody retailer for appropriate applications and flash times. Hope this helps!