Thursday, August 12, 2010

Revealed - 10 Steps to Spray Paint a Car Like a Professional - Painting and Bodywork

You will be surprised to see just how to spray car paint really can be easy. That doesn't mean that you can just grab a tin of paint and go at it. There are some basics you need to know. Both in the preparation and application.

Step A:
Prepare by gathering all of your items that you are going to need. Make sure your surrounding area is protected against any possible over spray. Any parts that do not need to be sprayed and that can be removed then do so. For other areas cover well with paper and masking tape.


Step B:
You will have to examine the car carefully for any rough spots. These will need to be sanded with 300 grit sand paper. This will smooth out the rough spots. It also allows the spray car paint to adhere better. Once you have finished sanding, make sure all of the dust dirt and debris are removed from the vehicle. It's imperative that the car be perfectly clean.


Step C:
You will need to apply a primer. This will make sure that you get an overall even coat of your colored paint plus helps the paint to adhere well. When you spray the primer, make sure you apply light coats and allow for drying in between. How to spray car paint takes a little getting used to.


Step D:
Now you are pretty well to the point where you are about ready to spray the color. You may have decided to use the spray car paint that comes in aerosol cans, or perhaps you have opted for the spray gun. In either case, make a few practice strokes on an object before you start with the car. Once you are ready, start the passes with the paint without hesitation. If you hold the spray can or gun in one spot, you will end up with uneven coverage and possibly the paint will run. If this happens you have a major repair job on your had. You will most likely have instructions as to how to spray car paint using the equipment or spray cans.


Step E:
It's up to you whether you want to wet sand between coats of primer and color paints. You may want to research this option on the web, or check with someone that is familiar with how to spray car paint


Step F:
Once you are totally satisfied with the color, you are down to the finishing touches. You will now want to apply several clear coats. This will give the gloss and finished look to the car as well as protect the finish. Probably two coats will be sufficient but it will be up to you. Make absolutely sure it is dry in between coats.


Step G:
Once again, you have the option of wet sanding if you prefer. Again, I suggest you ask the advice of individuals that are familiar with how to spray paint a car. If you decide to follow this step then you need to wet sand with the following grits in this order. Use 800, 1000, 1200, 1500 and the finally the 2000. This will remove spots that may be too heavy in the clear coat application.


Step H:
Now you will want to using a rubbing compound to buff the surface so you can use a 2000 grit to remove any scratches.


Step I:
You should now buff the surface. To do this simply use a medium cut polish. Once you have done this, you should have a perfect glassy look to the finish.


Step J:
As a final touch, you may want to apply a few coats of wax.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

How to Repair Paint Chips on Your Vehicle - Car Bodywork Repairing

When you buy a new or used car what is the first thing that appeals to you? I would be safe to assume the color is one of the first features that pulls you to a car once you have decided on the make and model. Some say that a color can define the personality and sometimes this can be true!

If history defines us by color than just look at the different colors of vehicles driven by the highest government or diplomat! Black can mean importance and be very impressive where white can mean status as well! Color believe or not can make the difference between how a vehicle is perceived by others.

For many consumers the advantages of having the options of choosing their own color can also define their individual choices and what there are looking for. Choices like blues, green and even oranges are now available to a buyer. Red is always been regarded as a hot and young color but older peoples find themselves rejuvenated by this choice.

To keep these colors in the greatest shape you must maintain a regular maintenance program. There are many ways to keep your car's color in great shape. Keeping it clean would be first and foremost as this removes acid and dirt from every place and you then can identify when you have a scratch or chip.

To repair a paint chip requires some work and knowledge and here are a few tips to follow:
-Always check and test the paint or cleaner where it's invisible to the elements.
-You can find the paint code in the car's manual and have if verified before application.
-Make sure the car is washed and cleaned. Sometimes a soft power wash is advisable.
- Make sure that the car is dry before any application of protective covers.

-Once cleaned apply a grease or wax to avoid to avoid any rust from accumulation.
- If an area is found that is rusted, the ideal method is to wrap a little piece of sandpaper around a sanding block which usually consists of a small foam block and clean before painting.
-You must use a light hand painting or can it come out uneven. Many professionals will use a toothpick to seal the paint and make sure it is spread out evenly. Always try and keep the edges clear to ensure it evens out perfectly.

-Keep you paint handy because time can be of the essence to giving a perfect match to every paint chip. Once this is done you can use a small bit of nail polish remover or alcohol to remove the excess paint and clean it with a clean rag.

For the small chips and scratches, they now have polishers and waxes then can sometimes be color coated to fix the problem. Just contact your dealership or the vehicles manufacturer to find out what you need!