Raiden

I've got a couple of big paint chips on a carbon frame from a dropped chain I'd like to fix. They're deep enough to have removed the paint in areas as big as a fingerprint. the carbon surface is smooth underneath, but there is a fine lip where the layer of paint ends.

Should I sand that lip down to transition smoothly down to the carbon surface, or just enough to knock off any points and then fill it in with paint or some sort of filler?

What kind of paint should I use? I intend to use an airbrush and color match the paint.

I have experience repairing a variety of fiberglass, but clearly this is different.

This seemed like the most appropriate end of the forum for the topic. Thanks.

taras0000

I would clean the area with alcohol first. Then paint before sanding smooth. This first layer or two of paint will be sacrificial, helping you to prevent from sanding too deep into the carbon. Paint and sand as needed until smooth.

fietsbob

You can Mix powdered Pigments into epoxy , the carbon fiber composite is made with Epoxy.

Raiden

Thanks, those are both very helpful.

Any suggestions on what type of paint to use?

I've got a week or two till I do this, so if anyone has further suggestions, keep them coming!

taras0000

You will want a paint used for plastic, as epoxy resin is essentially a plastic. I've rattlecanned with some good success on a carbon track frame that I used to have. Krylon Fusion is what I had used. Check in with an auto supply store for paint, or a body shop that also does paint. They may be able to mix up a custom colour for you in a small batch. It will be a little more expensive than what you could get at an art supply store or paint store, but it will be more durable.