Since the price for a new and used bumper cover vary so much, I was looking to buy a used cover.

Is this a good idea....assuming it's in good condition, I can't see why not. Any opinions?


Assuming I do buy used, what prep work needs to be done to make it the same as a new cover.....at least as far as work for the body shop guy is concerned. A buddy quoted me a price to paint a cover new....and I don't want to slip him a used one and make him prep it for me too.

 

Depends on the condition of the cover, and how many coats of paint are on it. If its original paint and not checked or peeling, it can be scuffed and reshot about as easy as a new cover. If its got a lot of paint on it, or any defects in the paint (checking, peeling, scrapes etc), you should strip it and that is fairly labor intensive. Keep in mind though that the original, used GM cover is going to fit better than a new aftermarket one, so the extra work may be worth it.

 

LT1 guy is right. As long as it is in good shape and has no peeling or cracking, then give it a good sanding with say 400 grit and then some 600 and spray away. If you have to strip it like mentioned , make sure to use a flexable etching primer on it first, or the new paint may crack and peel very easily.