Repaint Hood Insulation

[bonsaiwino]

The fiber hood insulation panels on my '79 carbed Spider are somewhat discolored. The panels themselves are in very good shape otherwise. I'm not sure how to carefully pop out the 'plastic pieces' that hold them in place without damage. Should I just get a screwdriver under them & hope for the best? And, after removal of the panels, can I just rattle can them? Thanks! Don in Pa.

[TX82FIAT]

Don, I was able to find black round panel inserts at autozone that closely resebled the original fasners for the hood isulation. the idea before starting was to re-use the originals. However, a couple of them broke making replacement required. Yes, you can rattle can the insulation. I used a 2 coates of a heat resistant rubber paint so the insulation would have some flex. But you can use any black paint. 20-30 minutes betwean coates. let the paint dry for about two days before re-installing.

[bradartigue]

The fiber hood insulation panels on my '79 carbed Spider are somewhat discolored. The panels themselves are in very good shape otherwise. I'm not sure how to carefully pop out the 'plastic pieces' that hold them in place without damage. Should I just get a screwdriver under them & hope for the best? And, after removal of the panels, can I just rattle can them? Thanks! Don in Pa.

You can dye the fiber using any fabric dye and a spray bottle. Take the thing off the car and lay in on a plastic sheet, commence to spraying.

[wizard124]

Use a body panel tool that has a notched end so that you can pry both sides. Less damage but will probably still destroy a few.

I like the idea of a rubberized paint. I'll probably try this also.