Techniques for Sanding a Corvette
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Joined: Sep 2004
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From: Austin Texas
Techniques for Sanding a Corvette
Guys,
I'm ready to start sanding my 1980 Corvette to prep for paint. Do any of you have a guide you've written up for the novice?
What grit sandpaper to start with?
What grit sandpaper to finish with?
Should I go down to the gel coat?
Can I use an electric palm sander?
Tricks, tips & do's and dont's.......
Thanks in advance for you help!
I'm ready to start sanding my 1980 Corvette to prep for paint. Do any of you have a guide you've written up for the novice?
What grit sandpaper to start with?
What grit sandpaper to finish with?
Should I go down to the gel coat?
Can I use an electric palm sander?
Tricks, tips & do's and dont's.......
Thanks in advance for you help!
Pro
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 570
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From: glace bay nova scotia
are you scuffing off for a repaint or taking it right down,any repairs needed??
never use an electric palm sander,do get yourself a good quality hard sanding block(not a sponge)
i block sanded the car with 280 grit,then 320,then reblock with 400. prime then scuff with 400 paper again.
research a bit on how to block sand properly and the body will be straighter than factory.
never hand sand anything....ever.... you will regret it.
never use an electric palm sander,do get yourself a good quality hard sanding block(not a sponge)
i block sanded the car with 280 grit,then 320,then reblock with 400. prime then scuff with 400 paper again.
research a bit on how to block sand properly and the body will be straighter than factory.
never hand sand anything....ever.... you will regret it.
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 194
Likes: 0
From: Appleton Wi.
If the paint is off, start with a good primer/sealer. Then start sanding. I wouldn't go any rougher than 240 to start. If you can, start with 360. Definately use a block! For base/clear, finish with 400.
TJ
TJ
Race Director
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 16,978
Likes: 7
From: In Dreams There Is Truth Ohio
First sanding with 220 wet if you are keeping the paint on the surface..then 320 and 400.
If you are stripping the paint, and don't want to use stripper or razor blade, then 80 will take the paint off quick. Prime with catalyst primer, block sand wet with 400.
BTW....you can use an air powered or electric hand sander with the 80 grid, but be careful not to go past the factory primer. There is no need to strip the factory primer unless you are doing panel repair.
If you are stripping the paint, and don't want to use stripper or razor blade, then 80 will take the paint off quick. Prime with catalyst primer, block sand wet with 400.
BTW....you can use an air powered or electric hand sander with the 80 grid, but be careful not to go past the factory primer. There is no need to strip the factory primer unless you are doing panel repair.
