Getting the job done: Tips for a glorious paint job

One of coolest things I like doing is painting cars. A lot of my clients imagine how good their car can look with a new color, so it has always been a challenge to meet their expectations.

Image source: wookmark.com

If your goal is a flawless paint job, here are some useful tips and tricks to help you:

• Never start a paint job without checking the material of your car. If you spot a dent or rust in the body, you can treat the affected area using chemicals like phosphoric acid and deoxidene. You also have the option to eliminate the rust by cutting away the rusted metal and by welding a new part as a replacement.

• Another way to ensure a long-lasting paint job is the use of high-quality body filler. It also makes sanding easier while painting.

• Apart from fillers, I also recommend block-sanding to avoid having finger marks in the body filler and to avoid unevenness of the color in the body panel as you start applying your coat. In most cases, you also need to use finer sandpaper grits to get a smooth finish.

• To ensure long-lasting paint, it is best to use high-quality primer to enhance the oxidation process of the wet paint.

• Lastly, to get the best possible finish, use quality two-stage systems. Compared to single-paint systems, a two-stage system can effectively clear rough areas of the painted metal. This will help you achieve a paint job that looks much thicker and shinier.

Image source: rrccollision.com

Apart from these tips, there are far more considerations to apply when car painting. Remember, the keys to successful car painting are proper preparation, and of course, the use of the right high-quality tools and equipment.

Bill Lauder here, a classic car mechanic from L.A. Follow me onTwitter to see more of my vintage collections.