Posted by Kevin in Ohio [50.102.97.55] on Saturday, August 16, 2014 at 19:49:19 :
In Reply to: body and paint quote. posted by Justin in SJ [71.226.237.120] on Saturday, August 16, 2014 at 16:32:00 :
Paul hits it on the head so I assume you have allready considered what your plan for use is, correct? Quotes can be all over the place and without knowing the painter it's hard to give an okay for the price.
I have found a lot of times it is still a gamble taking it to a shop even though you have seen their work. If it is a single guy doing everything, okay, but normally that is not the case.
We have a shop nearby that has had a couple Riddler award winner cars. I have seen some of his cars come out of the paint booth and all I can say is they make it REAL hard on the cut and buff guy. I was shocked when I saw it. Sags and runs and a lot of dirt. He charged a guy $1500,00 to repaint the BOTTOM HALF of his air cleaner. $25,000.00 and up for complete jobs. He hires young guys to do the stuff now and just rely on his past rep to get customers. They line up for it though.
As Paul said, prep is everything and follow the directions. I decided to do my own and am glad I did. No surprises under the paint that way. I'd watch the "stripper" aspect too. I've heard a LOT of horror stories about that causing problems down the road. I used discs and sand blasting. Ron in Indiana has the slickest set up I have seen that eliminates any warping potential.
The big name paints are getting crazy expensive anymore. Just the base can be over $600.00/gallon. Yes, there are cheaper ones but I'm just passing what I personally know.
A buddy of mine did all his own body work, primer, blocking and then had the painter shoot the final coat in the paint booth. Turned out well for him and he saved quite a bit. Don't fool yourself though, it takes LOADS of hours to get everything straight with no waves. If you want it close to perfect it is eother do it yourself or be prepared to pay.