We were a bit skeptical when a few guys in the FordMuscle forums recommended an aerosol solution for the missing door panels in Project MX. For almost a year we waited for someone to come through with a pair of ginger or dark brown panels for the Montego, nothing materialized. After eyeing a pair of molded plastic emerald green panels in the garage, we did some minor research on changing the color ourselves. A few FordMuscle readers advised us about SEM Flexible Coatings for rigid plastics and vinyl. SEM can be found at local auto body and paint supply shops. While we cannot vouch for the tenacity of the product as of yet, we can certainly say that this stuff was a dead-on match with the existing interior and the flat finish was spot-on original in its appearance. The picture shows SEM’s “Color Coat” in Cordovan Brown (15023) and “Sand Free” adhesion promoter (38363) in front of the freshly painted door panel. Behind the aerosol cans is an unpainted visor from the Montego. Check out the color match.

Here’s a close-up of the first door panel’s final finish. As with any paint work, prep is critical. We scrubbed the door panels down with a heavy detergent and wiped off all residue with a light amount of reducer. In a well ventilated place we sprayed the “Sand Free” until the entire surface was covered. While the “Sand Free” was still wet we dusted the entire panel with the “Color Coat”, letting it dry for about 10 minutes. After 4 coats the entire panel was finished. One can of “Color Coat” was enough for just the first panel. We’re off to the auto body and paint supply store for another can of SEM.