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FD7



Member Since: 16 Feb 2021
Location: Midland
Posts: 178
2006 Defender 90 V8 Petrol ST Auto Chawton White
Painted wheel arches
I'm planning on swapping my current plastic textured type arches to a painted type. I understand I can't simply get my current arches prepped / painted?

In my current search I've found that original new arches are quite expensive, however stumbled across an entry level /budget type from LR parts for a fraction of the price in gloss black (although I'm seeking a different colour).

Has anybody had any experience with this budget version in terms of repainting or even fitting it (if so how is quality /fitment etc)?
Post #1058760 27th Jan 2025 9:49pm
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Dinnu



Member Since: 24 Dec 2019
Location: Lija
Posts: 3480
Malta 2012 Defender 90 Puma 2.2 CSW Santorini Black
As I understand there are 2 types of wheel arches. One is made from softer plastic than the other.
I dont see why the harder plastic cant be painted as long as the plastic is prepped correctly with plastic primer (just like car bumpers). There are also plasticizers that can be added to the paint so that it remains a bit soft and help against crazing when the arches are flexed. 1988 90 Hard Top, 19J Diesel Turbo, Shire Blue - Restoration ongoing
2012 90 CSW, 2.2TDCI, Santorini Black
Post #1058771 28th Jan 2025 4:54am
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julian



Member Since: 17 Feb 2017
Location: Devon
Posts: 143
United Kingdom 1994 Defender 110 300 Tdi CSW Alpine White
I use epoxy primer all the time for work. It sticks to, pretty much, anything.

For a small part, that is easy to remove, I would just take off your existing arches and give it a go. The worst that will happen is that you waste some time and a small amount of money.
Post #1058789 28th Jan 2025 10:50am
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FD7



Member Since: 16 Feb 2021
Location: Midland
Posts: 178
2006 Defender 90 V8 Petrol ST Auto Chawton White
Thank you greatly appreciate it. I may still have a go but think realistically I can't achieve a good finish my self.

I've since found that 3 options exist on the market, 'budget' range, then OEM and of course genuine.

The OEM is also reasonable cost and so think that will be my best option. (I will put up a wanted thread however)

I understand the fronts are handed, but the rears are not?
Post #1059308 2nd Feb 2025 6:29pm
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Dinnu



Member Since: 24 Dec 2019
Location: Lija
Posts: 3480
Malta 2012 Defender 90 Puma 2.2 CSW Santorini Black
Indeed there seems to be only one part number for the rear. 1988 90 Hard Top, 19J Diesel Turbo, Shire Blue - Restoration ongoing
2012 90 CSW, 2.2TDCI, Santorini Black
Post #1059341 3rd Feb 2025 5:47am
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