AL Panel Silicone Opinions

Greetings.
Received my complete roadster kit back in November and am just now getting ready to do final install on some aluminum panels. My chassis was powdercoated matte black by FFR and after fitting and drilling I got the aluminum powdercoated to match. My question is about what color silicone to use between the chassis and panels. Really only two options in my head right now either clear or black. Looking for the forum's thoughts with maybe some pictures to help me decide one way or the other. Thanks.

I used black for my panels were PC black.

I started clear and switched to black. The clear no matter how much you cleaned up the bits that squish out when mounting the panels it is still visible and looks terrible. The black doesn't look so bad.

I used the clear GE silicone II stuff, mainly because it's cheap and readily available. I have hammered silver painted panels. whatever you choose, just wipe the excess off and it'll look fine.

I found black silicon worked and looked the best

Clear GE. No issues with it.

I used clear but I'm going to switch to black

I used ChemLink M-1 ,worked great.

Clear - it doesn't need to be slopped on. Take your time running a thin bead on the frame and carefully place the panel and you won't have it squeezing out and making a mess.

What Papa said. The proper sized bead won't be visible no matter the color. Of course, you're going to make a mistake or two (I made significantly more); just let it gel a little bit & peel it off.


John

Papa's advice on careful application is spot on. This isn't a 'more is better' kind of thing. Use the GE II silicone, it gives all the hold you need.

The only thing I would add to the discussion aside from agreeing with Papa's less is better recommendation is I have found that lacquer thinner will clean up uncured silicon quite well without leaving a film. My 2 cents. Scott

Silicone application tips here:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/show...plication-tips

Thanks everyone for all the information. It is all very useful.