Howdy Matt,
One place to start would be your local automotive painters supply store.
They will have loads of literature on paint systems and equipment. They
also may have books for amateur painters (the hobbyists). Try to find
someone in the store who has painting experience and who is willing to
talk you through the process. Build rapport with that person and offer
to come back on a slow day and really talk to the guy about the painting
process and what works in your area of the country. For example, hot
humid parts of the country need more water traps on compressors and
guns, primers may be thinned differently and driers mixed in the paint
will require different ratios, etc, etc. Then do the same routine with
paint shops whom you know have good reputations in the community. Your
approach here will have to be different, because while the paint store
is hoping to sell you paint and supplies, you are asking the body shop
owner and employees to give you knowledge which will result in your not
using their services! You can gain a lot of info though if you approach
them by pretending you want them to paint your Civvy vehicle and ask
lots of questions. (You also may convince yourself that letting a shop
paint one or both vehicles is more economical in the long run!)
Finally, seek out the custom car clubs in your area, attend their
meetings and talk to the persons who have done what you propose to do.
Those fanatics will be glad to share their experiences with you!
Good Luck!
Mel Miller
2 X M725
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