Painting issues, Opinions and referrals Options

[ppickerell]

I have a fair amount of money (IMG:style_emoticons/default/barf.gif) in my 73 2.0 on mechanicals . I want to paint it (IMG:style_emoticons/default/drooley.gif) and have stripped off (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sawzall-smiley.gif) all but trunks and interior. Body is great (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wub.gif) with a couple of small dents. No rust issues (IMG:style_emoticons/default/WTF.gif) . I need side marker holes, windshield washer jet holes, antenna hole and padge pin holes (IMG:style_emoticons/default/welder.gif) welded up and would like to get a paint job worthy of the $15K (IMG:style_emoticons/default/barf.gif) I sunk into mechanicals.

I spoke with a well known north bay shop (IMG:style_emoticons/default/idea.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif) familiar with 914's and we discussed $7K-$8K ballparks (IMG:style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) . I respect the right to charge what the market will bear (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool_shades.gif) but what I am looking for is a $4K-$5K paint job (IMG:style_emoticons/default/aktion035.gif) or less (IMG:style_emoticons/default/boldblue.gif) if possible. I will put all the seals/trim back on myself (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smash.gif) . The trunks and jambs are fine (IMG:style_emoticons/default/thumb3d.gif) .

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif) Am I nuts (IMG:style_emoticons/default/mad.gif) ?

Who in the SF bay area can do the job RIGHT (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smilie_pokal.gif) ? This is not a concourse (IMG:style_emoticons/default/pray.gif) job. Will they
be able to match my existing paint? What paint should I specify? #of coats? Clear coat?

I would appreciate suggestions and referrals.

Thanks,
patrick

[biosurfer1]

wow, thats a lot of smilies for one post:)

are you in a rush? have you ever thought about taking a paint/refinish class through a local community college? I'm taking one right now and it has been great. only one night a week, the teacher is a body/paint guy with 20+ years of experience who doesnt "talk" much, only about the basics. he feels the best way to learn is get you a respirator, throw a gun in your hand and get going!

i have been having a blast. In two classes, we are already shooting primer, learning to spot defects, blocking, and prep.

i doubt it will lead to any career, but its great info on what it takes to do a paint job correctly, or help you do your own if you want to go that route.