Hey folks, I’m freshening up my Yamaha Grizzly and need to repaint the plastic fender and side panels. I’ve tried regular spray paint before and it just peeled after a few weeks. Does anyone have a specific brand or type of spray paint that bonds well to ATV plastics? Should I be priming first, and are there any safety tips for spraying in a garage? Any recommendations would be awesome – I want a durable finish that can handle mud, sun, and a bit of road salt.
what spray paint to use on atv plastic
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I had the same issue with my Polaris. I ended up using a two-part epoxy spray designed for automotive plastics – it’s a bit pricey but sticks like glue. Make sure you sand the surface with 400‑600 grit sandpaper, clean off all dust, then apply a plastic primer before the epoxy. It cured in about 30 minutes, and after a clear coat it’s held up to mud and UV without any peeling. Just wear a respirator; the fumes can be harsh.
I’ve stuck with Rust-Oleum’s Specialty Plastic Spray for years. It’s cheaper than the epoxy and you can use it straight out of the can after a quick wipe‑down with isopropyl alcohol. I always do a light scuff with fine sandpaper and then a thin primer coat – that gives it a bit more bite. It doesn’t get as hard as epoxy, so you might need to touch up sooner, but for a seasonal bike it works fine and the colors are great.
Don’t overlook the importance of a proper clear topcoat. I tried a cheap primer and a glossy plastic paint, and the finish flaked after the first rain. My solution was to use a urethane clear coat after the paint dries – it adds UV protection and a tougher surface. Also, work in a well‑ventilated area and let each coat cure fully; rushing it was my biggest mistake the first time.