(Truth or Consequences NM)
I finally gave up! The original red paint was just too oxidated to restore to acceptable condition. As the photo below shows, it was badly faded, and beyond saving. So, the decision was made to paint over the red.
I was sure that a new color was needed to avoid a repeat of the fading; as red is the most susceptible to the strong sun in the southwest. Instead, I chose a two-tone metallic blue-green; often called teal. It was a Lazy Daze factory color during the time Tardis was built.
Plus, it was really the color I wanted; but, was unable to find when I was looking for a rig. It’s interesting that the value of the new color changes with the lighting; appearing lighter or darker. Many have commented that they really like the new color.
The faux windows on the front were repainted black to keep with the classic Lazy Daze look. And, a few blemishes from too much back country use were repaired. Of course the pinstriping had to be redone also; and, I kept them like the original.
I repainted the rubberized portion of the front bumper the original dark gray. Then, used Back to Black restorer on the side mirrors, and put new non-slip pads on the running boards and on the rear bumper below the roof ladder.
To complete the look, the wheels were painted black; with the possibility of color lug nuts and hub caps in the future. The original chrome wheel covers were long ago removed as they were a pain.
With new paint, Tardis looks brand new! I’m really happy with how it turned out. Now the challenge is to keep it that way.
Camp: Elephant Butte Lake SP
Scene: Paint Shop, Graphics Shop
Hey – that looks really, really great! Just like brand new!!! Did you find a local place in New Mexico to have it done?
Virtual hugs,
Judie
Yes. The work was done in Truth or Consequences NM by local paint and graphics shops.
Hi,
We have a 1999 Mid bath that could use some paint etc. Could you give info on painting and striping it? We live in Arizona, NM is really close.
Thanks.
The painting was done by a local paint/body shop. Only the color portion was redone; except for a few touch ups on the white. I bought the pinstriping from the Lazy Faze factory and it was applied by a local graphics shop. Not sure what else you wanted to know. Will send you an eMail.
Nice paint job. Also teal is the color for ovarian cancer, so good choice.
Glad you like it Brad. I’m quite pleased to have a decent looking rig again.
It does look fantastic. Congratulations!
I too am curious where it was done (I was assuming the factory?)>
Also, if you would be willing to share, what was the cost of the work, and did they do everything (cleaning and prep, minor body repairs, painting, striping, etc).
Your rig looks brand new! A lot cheaper than buying a new one I am sure. And a good reminder about the red color too.
Wishing you all the best,
S-
Sent you an eMail with details. All work done by local shops in New Mexico. I’m loving it.
Beautiful. Congratulations on the choices made.
Appreciate the comment Barney. It’s nice having a good looking rig again.
Tardis looks great! I always enjoy reading your blog😀
Thanks for reading Michelle.
I left a response a few days ago but I guess it didn’t go through? As the owner of another faded red Lazy Daze I was just wondering if you only got the stripes redone or did the whole rig get a re-paint? And I”m curious what something like that costs?
Repainted the two-tone reds to teal green, black, and touchup on the white. Sent you an eMail with details. Thanks for commenting.
Tardis is looking sharp, Pleinguy! I love the teal! Nice job!
Thanks Brad; glad you like it.
My Lazy Daze is named Sarah Jane and I’m getting ready to paint it reminiscent of the Tardis! Love the name and paint job!
Thanks Annell. Glad you like my rig and its name. Hope your paint works out as well as mine.
We live in New Mexico. Please email us pricing to have this done and where it was done. Thanks
Will send you an eMail later with details. Thanks for asking.
Hi, I was so glad to see this in the LD fan club on Facebook. I just bought a red 1998 23.5 ft twin/king a couple of weeks ago and was wondering if it was even worth trying to compound and wax to see if I can get the finish back. I just had the mechanical work done and have some work to do on the water system and solar. I am not planning on going full time for about 2 years but have been studying and learning for the past 5 or 6. I was specifically looking for an LD for the last 2 yrs. I would be interested in your paint job and the numbers if you would share. Also, are the steps on the side sprayed on? Thanks so much. I am off to look through the rest of your blog and have started with the Tardis first!
Well Cynthia, the color of your rig will be a big factor in whether it can be restored. Mine was red, and impossible to bring back even after several attempts. Perhaps try a small section as a test? The running board non-slip surface is not painted on; replacement pads were ordered from the Lazy Daze factory. I will send you an eMail with details later. Hope you enjoy reading about the journey.
Who is doing the painting? You, Pleinguy?
The new paint was done by a body shop in Truth or Consequences NM.
Love the paint job! I have a green 2007 LD that is terribly faded and desperately needs a new paint job, too! I’m also in NM, up in Gallup now, working as a travel nurse but living in Taos. I know you already shared the paint work was done in Truth or Consequences, but if you have time to email me the details about what you paid and what shop did the work, I would really appreciate it!
Thanks! Looks great!
Sent you an eMail with the details. Good luck on improving the look of your rig.