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juno · Posted: Wed Jun 02, 2004 8:59 pm Post subject: How hard is it to paint?

I've got some small paint jobs I'd like to attempt myself, like the headlamps & front grill. I've done small paint jobs before on non metallic cars. My car is silver. Is it hard to paint metallic? Do I just walk into a paint shop and ask them to match the paint to my car or do I need special paint?
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1980 924 Turbo RHD. 3" > 2.5" Stainless straight-through exhaust.

welder · Joined: 16 May 2003 Posts: 158 Location: cumberland,maine

Chances are if the paint jobs are small what you are talking about is spray cans. If you want the paint to match "exactly" you'll have a hard time with generic, hardware store paint. If you want as perfect a match as possible, you'll need your paint code and have this paint mixed by a professional, although it won't be in a spray can, and would be applied with a spray gun and compressed air. What exactly are you trying to accomplish? Are you just trying to tidy some faded surfaces (plastic or metal?)... or are you wanting to paint the actual body of the car? If they are accessory items like headlight surrounds, bumper pads, or plastic parts they can be taken off the car and painted with spray cans. Have you thought of accent colors for these parts like black? Remember before painting anything,the cleaning, and prep work, such as sanding are as important to a good finish as the paint.
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I have a 78 n\a currently under restoration.

rob1 · Joined: 14 Mar 2004 Posts: 42 Location: N Wales

Juno, check the Yellow pages there are some places that will mix to your exact colour even taking into consideration any fading in the paint due to age, obviousley you need to take the car to them to get the match. And it can be bought in an aresol can. It aint cheap about £15 per aresol but it is worth it to make things look right. Don't forget that with metalic paint you will have to laquer it as well, so don't panic when you first paint it when it doesnt match it takes time to get it flattened off properly then laquered which will need cutting again. If it done right it can look as good as the rest of the car.

juno · Posted: Sun Jun 06, 2004 2:14 am Post subject:

Thanks for the replys guys, got some things to consider now. It's initially the small parts I'd like to have a go at, like the headlamp covers, the front grill & bumper, and eventually the piece where the boot lock is and one of the wings. My car seems in good condition, apart from these few areas where age is taking it's toll.

I have done some painting with spray cans, but a few years ago. I do actually have a compressor and spray gun in the garage, although it's buried under lawnmowers and old car stuff. Not sure if the compressor still starts though.

My idea is to start off with the small parts and see how it goes, then after some practice I might attempt a rear quarter, provided I can get a friend to help me.
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1980 924 Turbo RHD. 3" > 2.5" Stainless straight-through exhaust.