How to Prep a Fox Body Mustang for Paint (Hot Rod)
For our 2019 Week to Wicked build program we opted to build a Fox-era Mustang. While building a completely new car in five days sounds stressful (it can be, but it's also a lot of fun with everyone pitching in), we know that there's no way a quality paint job can be had in that window of time. Yes, we've all seen it on TV, but the reality of it is corners are cut and the nice-looking paint doesn't last. We don't want to have to worry about the paint six months down the road, as our Week to Wicked builds are displayed at major events and they need to look their best. Every one of our builds gets painted in advance.
Over the years a lot of technology has gone into automotive refinishing systems. The days of spraying lacquer or even an enamel paint job under the shade tree in the back yard are pretty much over with. Modern refinishing solutions offer any color you wish with longevity and clarity that rival the custom paint finishes of the past only seen on show cars. However, these modern solutions require specific equipment and training to work properly. What that does mean for most is you'll no longer be painting your own Mustang, but that doesn't mean you can't still prepare your Mustang for said refinishing work yourself. From something as simple as body disassembly to body work and pre-finish prep, you can still get involved and help to ensure your new paint job is the best it can be while saving a few bucks in the process.
(photo credit: Mark Houlahan - Hot Rod)
