paint

[thelinja]

Before I go to college next month I wanna paint my S14.  It's got a small rust spot on the rear quarter and the front bumper has a bunch of little paint chips where the previous owner didn't clean off bugs.  I was going to go get an estimate today on painting and fixing the rust but my dad told me that he and I could do it since he used to paint and do bodywork on cars 20 years ago.  I was just wondering if it is better off to paint the car ourselves(which I have no idea how to do) or to leave it to the pros.  The thing is, if i get it painted professionally, there's a warranty, but if we paint it, there's not one.  By the way, I'm just painting it the same color.

[Tyler Durdan]

Here's a thought:  

You get a warranty from the pro's that says they will fix any problems with the paint, but you will know how to fix any problems you have if you do it yourself.

[rampid360]

If you go to any paint shop (and i mean a real paint/body shop...not maaco or electro-bake) you are going to get charged out the ass.  

I've been posting a lot of links to pics of paint/body work i've done...and I can tell you this:  If your dad knows what he's doing, let him paint it.

If the only body work you have is a little rust and chips, and you have all the necessary tools for painting, it will save you a fortune to do it yourself and you wont be disappointed.

(If you buy Martin Senour Paints from Napa, which I think is great stuff and have never had a problem with it, expect it to run you around 3-500 for paint, basecoat stabilizer, clearcoat, Tec/Solvent and clearcoat hardener...Add on for bondo, laquer thinner, tape etc)
-Al

[jvh22a]

if you have the time; i say do it yourself.. if your dad is helpping then all the better!   i would love to do it myself but i would have to use my parents garage.  and they like there garage clean....

[NissanNewbie]

Do it yourself. If your dad has the experience and the tools it should save you alot of money compared to a high quality (not maaco, etc.) paint job, which can cost a ton of money (2-3 grand or more).

[thelinja]

Alright, I think we're gonna try it.  We're gonna paint only one part first to see if it turns out good. If so we'll paint the whole car.  Thanks for the input.