Peterbilt Truck Interior Restoration Using ColorBond Automotive Interior Paint
This is the first segment in our coverage of the interior restoration of Paul Williamson’s 1981 Peterbilt Cab Over 362. As a truck enthusiast and previous professional truck driver, Paul decided to purchase and restore the truck. Paul tells us “Blue Bird Corporation (manufacturers of buses and RV’s) owned it since new and appears to be in the USA division until 1990. Then it came to Blue Bird in Ontario, Canada until 2013 when it was sold to a man who stored it in a barn with the intent to restore it. He never did and I purchased it this past Spring and began the restoration.
“Over the years mice ruined the fabric portions of the vinyl and fabric interior.” Says Paul. “The vinyl portion, however, was intact and salvageable. Since we were unable to get fabric in the original color, we decided it was OK to change the interior to a custom color. So, the fabric was replaced with a non-OEM specific material and then along with the vinyl was coated with ColorBond LVP OE automotive interior color spray. We went with a pewter color.”
Paul went on to say he had previous experience using traditional spray paint on carpet. “It turned out really bad and made the carpet very hard. Based on this and having no previous experience with ColorBond automotive interior color spray, we were concerned the Peterbilt interior wouldn’t turn out right.” Paul continues.
“So, we bought only two cans of pewter color and did one panel to see how it went. It looked great and the coating was very pliable and supple! I showed it to an interior restoration professional who couldn’t believe it had been coated! So, now we are now getting more LVP OE to finish the interior. By the way, it was great dealing with ColorBond and Malcolm Johnson. The customer service was excellent!” Paul concludes.
Amazing Results with ColorBond
Of note, for preparation before coating with ColorBond automotive interior color spray, Paul says he cleaned the vinyl with a citrus-based solvent to remove glue residue, washed it with soap and water, and then used ColorBond Prep Cleaner before coating.
We really like the theme of this restoration and are looking forward to bringing you further developments as they become available.
Vinyl Interior Panel – Before Repair and Repainting
Vinyl Interior Panel – After Repair and Painting with ColorBond LVP Refinisher
1981 Peterbilt Cab Over 362 – Before Restoration
Tips for Using Automotive Interior Color Spray
When you are restoring a classic truck interior like this Peterbilt, preparation and technique make all the difference. The right automotive interior color spray will only perform as well as the surface underneath it, so taking your time upfront pays off.
Clean the Surface Thoroughly
Every successful project starts with proper prep. Before applying any automotive interior color spray, remove dirt, grease, silicone, and adhesive residue. Wash the surface with soap and water, then use a dedicated prep cleaner designed for automotive interiors. A clean surface ensures proper adhesion and a smooth, professional-looking finish.
Test Before Committing
Even if you are confident in your color choice, always test the automotive interior color spray on a small, inconspicuous area or a single panel first. This allows you to confirm the color match, texture retention, and overall appearance before moving on to the rest of the interior.
Apply Light, Even Coats
Resist the urge to spray heavily. Multiple light, even coats provide better coverage and help maintain the original texture of vinyl and plastic surfaces. Hold the can at a consistent distance and use smooth, overlapping passes to avoid streaks, blotches, or buildup.
Allow Proper Flash and Dry Time
Give each coat time to flash before applying the next. Proper drying time helps the automotive interior color spray bond correctly and reduces the risk of tackiness or uneven finish. Follow product guidelines for best results.
Never Use Traditional Spray Paint
Standard spray paint is not designed for flexible automotive interiors. It often dries hard, cracks over time, and leaves surfaces feeling stiff or unnatural. A true automotive interior color spray, such as an elastomeric coating formulated specifically for vinyl and plastic, remains flexible and preserves the original feel and grain of the material.
Why Choose ColorBond?
ColorBond LVP OE is not traditional paint. It is an elastomeric coating specifically engineered for automotive interiors. That means it is designed to flex and move with vinyl, plastic, and other interior materials without cracking, peeling, or becoming rigid.
Unlike standard paint products, ColorBond penetrates the surface at a molecular level, bonding to the substrate rather than simply sitting on top of it. The result is a finish that looks and feels original, preserving the natural grain and softness of the material.
Professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike choose ColorBond automotive interior color spray because it offers:
- OEM-correct and custom color options
- Excellent adhesion to vinyl, plastic, and other interior surfaces
- A supple, factory-like finish
- Proven durability in real-world restorations
Whether you are reviving a 1981 Peterbilt, restoring a classic car, or refreshing worn interior panels, ColorBond provides a reliable solution that delivers consistent, professional results.
Get Started with ColorBond Today
If you are planning your own restoration project, choosing the right automotive interior color spray can make the difference between a finish that looks refinished and one that looks factory fresh.
ColorBond LVP OE gives you the flexibility, durability, and color accuracy you need to bring aging interiors back to life. Explore our full range of OEM-specific and custom colors, and see why restoration professionals across the country trust ColorBond for their interior projects.
Ready to transform your interior? Find your color and start your project with ColorBond today.
