1971 Project Truck Gets A Paint Job - Project Get Shorty - Tech

In theory, paintwork is more or less the same across the board. It all consists of primer, blocking, basecoat, clearcoat, and cutting and buffing. However, painting parallels the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, there's no wrong way to eat a Reese's. Every painter has their own method, style, and technique. With that said, the following process is my way. As you sift through the following pages, one thing you may notice is this painting process is as basic and as simple as it gets. The use of fancy body files, DAs, Jitterbugs, and the like have all been passed up for the more commonly found tools, like hand blocks, paper, and the ever-so-versatile human. However, there are other tools that must be picked up, such as a paint gun. The suction type guns of yesteryear have been passed up for the more friendly HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) guns. The great thing about these guns is the fact that they require roughly 4 cfm at 29 psi, which makes them compatible with many air compressors, even little 110 outfits. Mixing cups, air filters, respirators, paint sticks, strainers, tack rags, and other things (we'll cover all in the story) synonymous with paintwork round out the arsenal. All tools and materials needed, including paint, can be picked up at local paint and body supply houses. If you're unsure of one in your area, then companies such as Eastwood and Summit carry everything needed as well. Eastwood and Summit even carry their own lines of paint products. Other paint products can be ordered direct from the manufacturer. As you can see, this process is perfect for the novice, being that there isn't a good chunk of change standing in your way towards a killer DIY paintjob. Oh yeah, a fearless, yet tentative approach is a good tool to carry into battle as well.