Cleaning Calipers before Paint?

**Points70** · 04-27-2013

Hey guys, I used caliper cleaner last time before I painted my calipers with Duplicolor High temp Caliper Kit but they still cracked. Do you guys recommend using anything specific to help get some of the grime off of the caliper to help the paint last longer, also while keeping them on the car? I dont really have time or money to take the calipers off, since this is my daily driver. Thanks!

**99PontiacGTP** · 04-27-2013

I just used brake clean & a wire brush then primered it and then paint. Did it a year ago and they still look good.

**Points70** · 04-27-2013

Ok, I didnt prime mine last time. Any particular Primer?

**Scottydoggs** · 04-27-2013

i used brake cleaner, sand paper, more brake cleaner, then right before i was ready to paint them, i hung them up with wire, and sprayed them with duplicolor prep spray, after that, its hands off. your fingers leave oil behind and makes the paint turn out crappy.

then sprayed 5 light coats of vht caliper paint. they still look good a year later. if you got the time, let them sit a day or so to full cure.

**ctracer** · 04-27-2013

brake cleaner works well.
i didnt sand or do any of that. it came out alright. i didnt take my calipers off either, i just taped off the rotors and sprayed the calipers haha

**Points70** · 04-27-2013

Alright, Thanks for the advice! Ill have to sand them because they look like they are covered in grease

**Scottydoggs** · 04-27-2013

dont sand grease, de grease them, then brake cleaner, if the old paint looks rough, sand them some. then prep and spray.

i had F bodys to put on, so i hung them up and painted them, the rears i took off, lined the wheel wheel with news paper, then hung the caliper from the strut spring, and sprayed them. let them dry for a few hours, then slide them back on.

i give you caliper peaches lol they are hanging in a peach tree.