Wheel-well finishing from factory

[Bob Ashlock]

Doing some cleaning on my 76 912E. After scrubbing years of dirt and crud from the wheel-wells, I find they are painted same color as car (silver). This is over the factory stone-guard, "schutz" or whatever textured coating was applied and this makes sense. But there are also some areas that are purposefully painted black over the silver, not with a definite, explainable pattern. Almost like it was quickly just shot at the discretion of the painter. Was this done just to hide certain areas from drawing attention, or add some extra protection? Would like to keep things as 'original' as possible, but not sure if this is really the way it was intended. Photos give the view looking over the edge of the tire.

[Bob Ashlock]

The other view/photo

[EdT82SC]

On my 82 the entire wheel well is body color (light ivory). There is no black to be found anywhere.

[Bob Kontak]

Originally Posted by EdT82SC

On my 82 the entire wheel well is body color (light ivory). There is no black to be found anywhere.

On the upside the wheel well silver is pretty tough if factory. You may be able to "wipe" the black off with lacquer thinner - patiently. Probably just spray can paint. The original silver paint can take several direct rag swipes of lacquer thinner without budging but there is a limit before it softens. The black paint will be way easier.

I know enamel reducer is not as vicious as lacquer but may take more rubbing, which I see as an equal risk.

[deguitars]

My '82 SC has splashes of black in certain areas, such as around the power antenna motor, but they look like protective material applied after assembly, not like yours which seems to just be black paint.

Cheers