Abstract: Kicker cylinders are used in a vacuum compression molding method and apparatus to initially break the seal between two members of the mold in order to facilitate quick opening of the mold to thereby increase part cycle time.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for in-mold coating plastic parts which find particular utility in compression molding sheet molded compound (SMC) exterior automotive body panels. The mold members are configured so as to provide a down turned flange for the part at its outer extremities. The male mold member includes an undercut portion for securing the part to the male mold when the female mold is raised to allow injection of the coating material. The part is ultimately ejected from the male mold by way of blades which press upwardly on the down turned flange thereby lifting it from its undercut portion and releasing the part from the mold. By confining the ejector blade contact to the flange, extremely smooth, high quality finishes for the major surface of the part can be achieved.