DSYKES5500 22 Posted June 4, 2020 Hi all, Does anyone know what the original finish was on the gearbox end cover? I've a feeling it was yellow passivate but mine's just rusty brown so no way of telling. As it's pitted, what kind of finish should I expect? Do the finishers fill in and smooth it before dipping? Either way it looks a mess and could do with a bit of protection. Oh and is there an inner plastic panel for that side? Mine doesn't have one and I don't think my first GTI had one either, but that was 25 years ago so I'm not too sure... Ta! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
welshpug 1,656 Posted June 4, 2020 not sure on the exact finish, yellow zinc always seems far too bright, even on newer vehicles they looked a satin grey, but not quite a galvanized silver. I usually just paint them black. there isn't a cover on a gti, not enough room between tyre and gearbox! a square shouldered 195 50 will rub the end casing of the box sometimes. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tom Fenton 1,541 Posted June 4, 2020 You cannot fill it in before plating. The finish is very dependant on how bad it is. I have opted to skim with filler to get rid of the worst of the pitting then spray paint before now. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DSYKES5500 22 Posted June 4, 2020 Thanks everyone I did think that the finish would depend on the current condition. Good tip about the filler and paint. A nice satin silver finish might look good, depending on how I get the prep done. If I cock up it'll be a thick coat of black Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
farmer 328 1 Cars Posted June 4, 2020 (edited) Silver was new as got two Dullish type Edited June 4, 2020 by farmer Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Leslie green 109 Posted June 4, 2020 Unfortunately the finish you get with plating or powder coating depends on it being good and not pitted to start with so fill and paint is better in this case but not as good as new lol Share this post Link to post Share on other sites