Prepping for paint - What do i need to do

[George]

First off I am not looking to spend $10k+ on a paint job. My Firebird is a working mans fun to drive non show car.

I painted it myself about 5 years ago... and lets just say it at least protected the metal...

So now I am getting ready to prep it for someone else to spray the base and clear.

What do I need to do at home to get it close to being ready to spray? I am planning to block sand and fill to get it straight, it is not bad as is. But what other than that? Sealer, primers?

To cut down cost I'd like to have as little to do for the painter as possible.

Thanks for all the input.

[Alchemist]

Hi George,

If I may suggest that you first find yourself a painter and ask him what needs to be done. Every accomplished painter has their own method of prep prior to paint which is why I would suggest you find your painter as your first step. Good luck!

Alchemist

[George]

Thanks. I ended up finding a spray booth i can rent out so.... I'm going to give it a go myself.

I have been doing a lot of reading on prep and think I am on track with striping, epoxy primer, filler primer and extensive blocking with guide coats, sealer and smooth with 400 grit or so then base/clear.

A little more work than i wanted.....but hey I still want a sub $600 paint job to look good.

[Alchemist]

George,

I know for most of us - we would want our final result to look great no matter what the cost. How about keeping us posted with your in progress photos please?!