Looking for materials advice - non-Corvette but close
I'm going to build a Cobra replica that I have on order for delivery this winter. Unlike Corvettes, these things definately are heavily gel coated so I'm looking for some advice on steps and products for body preparation prior to paint. On my Corvette I did all my body work and repairs before sealing everything wtih gel coat. So this is going to have to be a little different. I've heard of all sorts of products I don't recall from my Corvette spraying back in the early 90s - Rage and Rage Gold filler, HSRF (or something like that), slick sand, etc. So, I'm definately not up on the latest products.
This manufacturer's body are suppose to be of very high quality - we will see. I'm thinking hit the whole body with a board and 60 or 80 grit to take the gloss off the gel coat thoroughly. Then take down all the mold seams to slightly below profile. Bring these areas back to profile with what???? Then go over the whole the whole body and skim coat any areas needing leveling or flushing up with adjacent panels with what ???? Everyone in the Cobra world seems hooked on Rage products but I've read a few comments about it being touchy to hardner amount, gummy in sanding, and doesn't feather well???? Then block sand some more. Then some sort of high build sandable primer (Slick Sand)???? Block sand some more. Then epoxy primer???? Then sealer.
I've pretty much concluded I have to give up my old lacquer paint and bite the bullet and buy an air supplied respirator and go with a urethane paint. But I would like to stay away from any more use of hardened paint products than is necessary - so under this set of circumstances is epoxy primer really a necessity????
Any other ideas or product suggestions? I'm not trying for a show-circuit-queen paint job. However, I'm considering Black for the finish which means I'm going to have to take a lot of the same precautions. More concerned with chip resistance and straight panels.
Dan,
I can give you all the information you need about products and procedures...but you need to call me. The amount of information I have from start to finish would take me hours to type and only a short phone call to communicate to you. I have many "tricks" and suggestions that will aid you in the prep work.
"DUB" (704)394-5150 EST M-F 8:30-5:00
Dan,
I can give you all the information you need about products and procedures...but you need to call me. The amount of information I have from start to finish would take me hours to type and only a short phone call to communicate to you. I have many "tricks" and suggestions that will aid you in the prep work.
"DUB" (704)394-5150 EST M-F 8:30-5:00
Thanks - I'll do it. It may be awhile as unfortunately I'm tied up as a witness in a trial for a few weeks.
If you are getting a "Factory Five" kit I think you will find the body remarkably straight. I would put it either on a buck, or on the frame, then cheater coat it and block with something like 180 first... you might be pleasantly surprised. Many current kits shame earlier cars when it comes to "as pulled" body quality.
If you are getting a "Factory Five" kit I think you will find the body remarkably straight. I would put it either on a buck, or on the frame, then cheater coat it and block with something like 180 first... you might be pleasantly surprised. Many current kits shame earlier cars when it comes to "as pulled" body quality.
Actually it's an ERA. Suppose to have nice bodies.
Corvette Store
Looking for materials advice - non-Corvette but close
