Your truck attracts dirt and debris when you’re hauling heavy equipment or materials. These materials may scratch and damage your truck bed. To protect your vehicle from scratches, apply a protective material that provides a non-slip surface for your truck bed. Here is how to properly apply a bed liner spray kit:
Mix the Components
Check your bed liner kit’s instructions for the exact mixing ratios of components, as they vary between brands. When you are ready to mix, confirm you are in a well-ventilated workspace and wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator. Measure out the appropriate amount of each component and pour it into a clean mixing container. Use a stir stick to mix the components thoroughly, and verify that there are no lumps or inconsistencies in the mixture.
Prepare the Surface
Prepare the surrounding area by masking off any parts of your truck that you don’t want to get sprayed. You may use drop cloths or plastic sheets to protect these areas from overspray. Since adhesion is determinant for the longevity of your bed liner, properly prepare the surface of your truck bed.
Once you have cleaned your truck bed, sand the surface to create a rough texture for the liner to adhere to. Your bed liner spray kit will bond better to a slightly rough surface than to a glossy one because the texture provides more surface area and grip. A degreaser is when you are going to use a spray-in liner; be aware that it will require a professional application.
Apply the First Coat
Dip your applicator tool into the mixed solution, and start applying the mixture to your truck bed with even strokes. Use a smaller brush to help cover the edges of the bed. Continue applying the coating in thin and even layers until you have coated the entire bed.
For best results, use a thin coat for the first application and wait 24 hours before applying a second coat. This will confirm that the coating can bond with the bed and itself. Apply the coat in this way:
- Begin at one end and spray in a pattern.
- Keep a uniform distance from the substrate.
- Be sure to do an even spray.
- Let the bed dry per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Clean the Truck Bed
To prepare the bed for the bed liner, pressure-wash the truck bed to remove any dirt and rust. Certain debris may be stubborn to a high-pressure washer and would need to be sanded or ground. The bed liner kit will include detailed instructions on preparing the truck bed.
The preparation may include etching, which makes sure that the coating will stick to the truck bed. Once you have cleaned and etched the truck bed, wash it with water to remove the dirt and debris, and allow it to dry before you begin to apply the bed liner. This gives you a durable and long-lasting bed liner that can hold up to different weather conditions and rigors.
Find a Bed Liner Spray Kit
A liner spray kit is what you use to successfully apply the coating onto your truck bed. Your bed liner spray kit comes with components to help you complete the task, including a spray gun, liner material, and instructions. Contact a hardware store or auto parts shop to find a liner spray kit.
