Elena Rossi
The GM 12-bolt rear end is one of the most popular rears for GM vehicles. When rebuilding a 12-bolt, it is recommended to break it in before use. This can be done by driving the car forward and in reverse several times, listening for any unusual noises and watching for unusual vibrations. Before painting a 12-bolt rear end, it is important to clean and prepare the surface. Some common methods for cleaning include using brake cleaner, hand sanding, media blasting, and sandblasting. When it comes to paint, some popular options include powder coating, enamel paint with hardener, and tractor paint. It is also important to consider the type of primer and paint that will give the desired finish, such as a factory appearance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year of first installation | 1964 |
| Types | 10-bolt and 12-bolt |
| Best way to identify type | Shape of the cover |
| Paint | POR15, enamel paint, Zink plating, lacquer, enamel, gloss black, satin black, high-temp engine grey |
| Other methods | Powder coating, blasting, overcoating |
| Precautions | Remove all paint, grease, and rust |
| Post-painting | Jack the wheels off the ground and warm the rear lube |
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning and scraping
When it comes to cleaning and scraping a 12-bolt rear end, there are several methods you can use. One approach is to use a brake cleaner to clean and scrape away any residue. You can then hand-sand the surface to smoothen it out. If you want to avoid media blasting, this method is a good option.
Another user recommends using a 4.5" grinder with a braided wire wheel to strip any crud and rust from the surface. This method can be effective in removing tough debris and preparing the surface for painting. It is important to note that media blasting should ideally be done after gutting the component to prevent media from getting everywhere.
If you are looking for a more heavy-duty option, sandblasting can be considered. However, it is crucial to exercise caution to protect the factory stampings on the housing. You can tape off the stampings and then sandblast the rest of the housing. Afterward, you can carefully clean and paint the stamped area. This two-step process can help ensure that you do not damage the important stampings while effectively cleaning and preparing the rest of the surface.
Additionally, it is worth noting that certain paints, such as POR15, require thorough preparation and specific application methods. You must follow the manufacturer's instructions to achieve satisfactory results. This includes removing all paint, grease, and rust, neutralizing the rust with acid, and ensuring the surface is completely dry before application.
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Sanding
- Start by using a coarse grit sandpaper, such as 80-grit, to remove any existing paint, rust, or debris from the surface. This initial sanding step is crucial to ensuring that the new paint will properly adhere to the surface. Be sure to wear proper safety gear, including gloves, eye protection, and a respirator, to protect yourself from dust and debris.
- You can use a sanding block or a power sander for this step, depending on the size and condition of the surface. If there are tight or curved areas, you may need to use sandpaper and sand by hand to ensure you don't damage the underlying surface.
- Once you have removed the majority of the existing paint and rust, switch to a finer grit sandpaper, such as 120-grit or 150-grit. This will help smooth out the surface and create a more refined finish. Continue sanding until you have a uniform surface free of any visible flaws or imperfections.
- For the final sanding step, use an even finer grit sandpaper, such as 220-grit or 320-grit. This will help create an ultra-smooth surface that is ready for primer and paint application. Take your time during this step to ensure that the surface is as smooth as possible.
- After sanding, it is important to clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dust or debris generated during the sanding process. Use a tack cloth or a damp cloth to wipe down the entire surface, ensuring that it is completely free of any residue.
- Before proceeding to the next steps of priming and painting, inspect the surface to ensure that it is uniformly smooth and free of any visible scratches or imperfections. If you find any areas that require additional attention, spot sand those areas with the appropriate grit sandpaper until they are consistent with the rest of the surface.
Remember to work in a well-ventilated area during the sanding process and always prioritize your safety by wearing the appropriate protective gear. Taking your time during the sanding process will ensure that your 12-bolt rear end is properly prepared for a high-quality and long-lasting paint finish.
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Primer
When it comes to priming and painting a 12-bolt rear end, there are a few important considerations and steps to follow. Firstly, it is essential to clean and prepare the surface properly before applying any primer or paint. This includes removing all old paint, grease, and rust from the surface. Media blasting or sandblasting can be effective methods for removing old coatings and contaminants, but it is crucial to protect sensitive areas, such as factory stampings, by taping them off before blasting.
Once the surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepared, the next step is to select an appropriate primer. A high-quality primer, such as a high-temp engine primer, is recommended to ensure adhesion and durability. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application, as well as the safety guidelines, especially when working with solvents or spray equipment.
After applying the primer, it is important to allow adequate drying or curing time before proceeding to the next step. The primer should be given enough time to form a strong base for the topcoat. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific drying or curing times.
In terms of primer colours, satin black is a popular choice for the 12-bolt rear end. It provides a sleek and subtle finish that complements the natural metal aesthetic. However, it is important to note that primer colours can vary, and some experimentation may be required to achieve the desired factory appearance.
Additionally, when priming and painting, it is recommended to pay close attention to the rear end's housing and other components. Ensuring that the primer and paint are applied evenly and thoroughly to all surfaces will help achieve a consistent and aesthetically pleasing result.
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$24.27 $28.3
Paint type
When it comes to painting a 12-bolt rear end, there are several options to consider. One popular choice is to use a powder coating, which provides a durable and long-lasting finish. Powder coating can be applied over POR15, a paint specifically designed for use on rusty and poorly prepped surfaces. However, it is important to note that POR15 does not contain UV protectors, so it may fade over time if exposed to sunlight.
Another option is to use an enamel paint with a hardener, such as the Tractor and Implement paint mentioned by one user. This type of paint is designed for farm equipment and cures to a hard finish, making it highly durable and resistant to scratches. It is available in several colors and can be applied to suspension and SFC bare metal.
When preparing to paint a 12-bolt rear end, it is important to thoroughly clean and sand the surface. One user recommends using brake cleaner and hand sanding to remove any rust or debris. If you are considering media blasting, it is recommended to completely gut the component first to prevent media from getting everywhere.
Additionally, you may want to consider the use of a primer to ensure a smooth and even finish. Dupli-color high-temp engine primer is one option that can be used to achieve a factory appearance. After painting, it is important to allow the paint to cure completely before reassembling the components.
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Paint application
Painting a 12-bolt rear end requires careful preparation and the right choice of paint. Firstly, it is important to clean the surface thoroughly. This can be done by stripping off any existing paint or rust using a 4.5" grinder with a braided wire wheel. Alternatively, brake cleaner can be used, followed by hand sanding. It is important to tape off any factory stampings to protect them during the cleaning process. Once the surface is clean, it can be primed using a high-temperature engine primer.
When it comes to paint choice, there are a few options. Some people prefer to use POR15, which is designed to be used on poorly prepped areas and can be painted over rust if the scale is removed first. However, it requires careful following of the instructions and does not have UV protection, so it will fade if used in sunlight unless overcoated. Others prefer to use enamel paint with a hardener, such as Tractor and Implement paint, which is tough and cures nice and hard. This type of paint can be applied with cheap dust brushes, as the brush quality does not make a difference in the final finish.
Another option is to powder coat the 12-bolt rear end. This provides a durable finish but requires blasting beforehand. Zink plating is also an option, which is rust-proof and cheap.
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Frequently asked questions
Clean and scrape the rear end using brake cleaner, then hand sand the rest.
You can use enamel paint with hardener, or powder coating.
The best way to identify the type of rear end is usually the shape of the cover.
