Polyvance 3701-4 Bumper & Cladding Color Coat User Manual
Model: 3701-4
1. Product Overview
The Polyvance Bumper & Cladding Color Coat (Model 3701-4) is an advanced, low-VOC, solvent-based coating specifically formulated to permanently recolor molded-in-color textured TPO and polypropylene plastic components. This includes bumpers, side cladding, and trim found on various vehicles.
Unlike temporary silicone-based products, this color coat adheres strongly to the plastic surface, providing a durable and lasting finish that resists fading, marring, and staining. It is designed for direct application without the need for adhesion promoters or extensive sanding on compatible plastic types.
Image 1.1: Polyvance 3701-4 Bumper & Cladding Color Coat in a quart can, showing product labeling and key features.
Key Features:
- Permanently recolors faded, scuffed, marred, discolored, or damaged plastic bumpers, side cladding, and trim.
- Adheres to TPO and Polypropylene (PP) plastic without sanding, adhesion promoter, or primer.
- Forms a strong, durable bond that resists removal by pressure washing.
- Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) formula.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
DANGER: FLAMMABLE. HARMFUL OR FATAL IF SWALLOWED. READ CAUTIONS ON BACK PANEL.
Always read and understand the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for this product before use. The SDS provides detailed information on hazards, safe handling, and emergency procedures.
General Safety Precautions:
- Ventilation: Use in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Avoid breathing vapors.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE, including chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection (safety goggles), and a respirator suitable for organic vapors.
- Flammability: Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces. No smoking.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from incompatible materials and direct sunlight. Keep container tightly closed.
- Disposal: Dispose of contents and container in accordance with local, regional, national, and international regulations.
- First Aid: In case of contact with skin or eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water. If swallowed, do NOT induce vomiting. Call a Poison Control Center or doctor immediately.
3. Preparation and Setup
Proper preparation of the surface is crucial for optimal adhesion and finish quality, even though sanding and adhesion promoters are not required for compatible plastics.
Surface Compatibility:
- Recommended: Molded-in-color textured TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) and polypropylene (PP) plastic bumpers, side cladding, and trim.
- Not Recommended Without Sanding: Raw polyurethane (PUR) or OEM primed bumpers. These substrates require proper sanding and preparation before application.
Preparation Steps:
- Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the plastic surface to be coated. Use a suitable automotive cleaner or degreaser to remove all dirt, grease, wax, silicone, and other contaminants. Rinse thoroughly with water and allow to dry completely. Any residue will compromise adhesion.
- Masking: Mask off any areas not intended for coating, such as painted body panels, chrome trim, or adjacent components, using automotive masking tape and paper/plastic sheeting.
- Temperature and Humidity: Ensure the application area is within recommended temperature and humidity ranges (refer to product label for specifics, typically room temperature and moderate humidity).
- Shake Well: Before opening, shake the can vigorously for at least 2-3 minutes to ensure the color coat is thoroughly mixed. Continue to shake periodically during application.
4. Application Instructions (Operating)
Follow these steps for effective application of the Polyvance Bumper & Cladding Color Coat:
- Ventilation and PPE: Ensure adequate ventilation and wear all recommended personal protective equipment (gloves, eye protection, respirator).
- Test Area: If possible, test the color coat on an inconspicuous area or a scrap piece of the same plastic to verify color match and adhesion.
- Application Method: This product is typically applied using a spray gun. Consult the product label for specific nozzle and pressure recommendations. Apply in thin, even coats.
- First Coat: Apply a light, even mist coat to the prepared surface. This initial coat helps promote adhesion and provides a base for subsequent coats.
- Subsequent Coats: Allow appropriate flash-off time between coats (refer to product label, typically 5-10 minutes). Apply additional thin, even coats until desired coverage and color uniformity are achieved. Avoid applying excessively thick coats, which can lead to runs or uneven drying.
- Drying Time: Allow the coated surface to dry completely before handling or exposing to moisture. Drying times will vary based on temperature, humidity, and film thickness. Refer to the product label for specific recoat and full cure times.
- Cleanup: Clean spray equipment immediately after use with appropriate solvent.
5. Maintenance
Once cured, the Polyvance Bumper & Cladding Color Coat provides a durable and permanent finish. Maintenance is straightforward:
- Cleaning: Clean the coated surface with standard automotive car wash soap and water. Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners or strong solvents, which could potentially damage the finish over time.
- Protection: While the coating is highly durable, regular waxing or application of a UV protectant designed for automotive plastics can help extend its lifespan and maintain its appearance, especially in harsh environmental conditions.
- Damage Repair: In case of new damage (scratches, scuffs) to the coated area, the product can be reapplied to the affected section after proper cleaning and preparation.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues that may arise during or after application.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Product clumping or poor consistency | Expired product, improper storage (e.g., extreme temperatures), or insufficient mixing. | Check the manufacturing or expiration date on the can. Ensure product is stored in a cool, dry place. Shake vigorously before and during use. If product is expired or consistency is poor despite mixing, do not use. |
| Poor adhesion or peeling | Inadequate surface cleaning (presence of grease, wax, silicone), incompatible substrate (e.g., raw PUR without sanding), or application in unsuitable environmental conditions. | Ensure surface is meticulously clean and dry. Verify substrate compatibility. Apply within recommended temperature and humidity ranges. Re-prepare and reapply. |
| Uneven finish or runs | Applying coats too thick, insufficient flash-off time between coats, or improper spray technique. | Apply multiple thin, even coats. Allow adequate flash-off time between coats. Maintain consistent spray distance and speed. |
| Color not matching expectation | Variations in base plastic color, lighting conditions, or product batch. | Always perform a test application on an inconspicuous area first. Ensure consistent application technique. |
7. Specifications
| Product Name | Bumper & Cladding Color Coat |
| Model Number | 3701-4 |
| Brand | Polyvance |
| Manufacturer | Polyvance |
| Color | Black |
| Volume | 1 Quart (945 ml) |
| Item Weight | 2.25 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 3.38 x 3.38 x 8.75 inches |
| Surface Recommendation | Plastic (TPO, Polypropylene) |
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| UPC | 694687002688 |
8. Warranty and Support
Polyvance is committed to providing high-quality plastic repair products and expertise. While specific warranty details for the 3701-4 Bumper & Cladding Color Coat are not provided in this manual, customers are encouraged to contact Polyvance directly for any warranty-related inquiries or product support.
Polyvance has been assisting with plastic repairs since 1981 and focuses exclusively on products that aid in repairing or refinishing broken plastic. For technical assistance, application advice, or to report product issues, please refer to the contact information provided on the product packaging or the official Polyvance website.
For more information about Polyvance and their commitment to quality, visit their official website or contact their customer service department.
