I need to repaint my housing. Does anyone know what type of finish process and black color was used by the factory?
Not sure what ignition component you mean.
I think you’re referring to the upper column shroud that contains the ignition cylinder.
These are zinc castings, and Ford used a very low quality metal on these components that can be tricky to paint. Adding to the challenge are the skin oils and cleaning products that they are exposed to over decades.
To avoid a virtual aquarium of fisheyes when painting, this is the only approach that’s worked for me.
- Remove shroud from the column (easy on a tilt column, a bit harder on a fixed column)
- Bead blast thoroughly
- Wash with HOT water and Dawn. Repeat. Then wash it again.
- Use rubber gloves when handling. Avoid getting any skin oils on the metal
- Use a metal etching primer and give it several light coats. Let dry.
- Use SEM interior paint (satin black is good for black columns, they also have other OEM colors)
- Apply a light tack coat.
- Then apply several light coats to cover
- Let it sit for a few days to cure.
Sanding these shrouds has NEVER worked for me. I think it just grinds the contaminants deeper into the metal.
Good luck!
Here is a picture of mine. key usage over the years has taken a tool. Thank you for your knowledge and experience to restoring the color on this housing.
Also, I’m still not sure about the gap you see in this picture. I can’t image that Ford would design it this way. I’m I missing something?
Regards,
Gene
I used a 2k hot rod satin paint from Spraymax. I think the finish is dead on for color and sheen. Amazon.com
Looks great! Thank you for sharing.
Looks like your plastic shroud is slid too far towards the steering wheel onto the ignition switch housing. Should only be about a 3/8” gap at the back. Yikes - mine needs some paint too.
Your picture makes sense. I have some work to do. Thank you for sharing the picture.
Gene