Painting the plastics

[PhredValk]

Hi, gang. I took my saddlebags off to get painted (99 I/S, green/silver). Having a discussion with the roomie, I brought the worst of the two up from the basement to show him what I needed, and he said 'Get some sandpaper and do it yourself'. It's just scratches, no real gouges or holes, and I can get matched paint from ColorRite and clearcoat from a local paint store, so:

What kind and grit number sandpaper would you use? Sand by hand or get an electric palm sander?

Is there some kind of product I should use to fill the scratches before sanding (like for CD/DVD discs)?

Is there anything I should use for sealer? Primer? I'll be using the aerosol spray can paint.

Remove all hardware or just mask/paper? I won't be painting near the hinges or locks, but will have to remove the I/S logo and reflector (thinking of replacing the reflectors with LEDs anyway).

I haven't seen any paint threads, but I'm sure some members have done touch-up paint on bikes/cars/boats etc.
Thanks, Fred.

[tybme]

Speaking from personal experience. Hire a professional - getting the paint to lay down correctly is very hard to do if you aren't experienced.
I painted a gl1100 a couple years ago - after I was done the faded, scratched paint looked much better than the work (at least 40-60 hours) I put into it.
If you know what you are doing - go for it but I'm guessing from your questions you lack the experience - as I did.

[BradValk48237]

There is also clear coat on them if I am not mistaken.....

I agree on having a professional do it.... will save time for you and get you a much better end result.... blending old and new paint takes some skill... which I DON't have....

Hey...... It's only money after all.
B

[arm]

  JUST HAD MY TWO SIDE BAGS AND THE TRUNK REPAINTED AT A LOCAL BODY SHOP. $500.00 BUT THEY LOOK LIKE NEW AND A PERFECT MATCH..

ARM