I forgot to add that if you want a mirror finish then W&D down to 2000 and then polish. A clear coat is essential as it will dull in weeks without continual polishing. I like to get a finish and wait for it to dull and then do a final polish before clear. I think taking that last oxide off the polished metal gives some extra bling. Brasso and silvo work well almost as well as Autosol.
I keep a tube of Autosol in my main kit for uick buff ups on the show cars.
Don't paint nuts and bolts, it chips off. Get them plated or use cap screws.
Use 2K or epoxy on tinware and bases, bars etc.
Engine enamel or 2k for crankcase
Hi-temp for barrels and head. (you might get away with engine enamel if it's not run hard)
Killrust type epoxy for almost everything else or powdercoat if you want to spend the coin.
Auto acrylic for any features (bars, fittings etc.)is good but priming is essential and polishing after paint is the key to a good look.
I'll be using 7 different paints for my new hot rod utility.
Plus acid dipping, sand blasting, flap wheel, wire wheel and good old fashioned elbow grease for prep.
Excellence is a hard won battle.
Good luck
It's looking great so far.
B
